Under the Radar Defensive Backs in Kentucky to Watch
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After a sensational year of high school football action in the Bluegrass State, it’s time to highlight some of the most explosive playmakers that made a name for themselves this past season. After breaking down some high-level linebacker prospects, here’s…
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Continue ReadingAfter a sensational year of high school football action in the Bluegrass State, it’s time to highlight some of the most explosive playmakers that made a name for themselves this past season. After breaking down some high-level linebacker prospects, here’s my list of some impactful under the radar defensive backs in Kentucky to watch for.
In the first place spot on my list is Koleby Schroeder Koleby Schroeder 6’1″ | 155 lbs | DB Union County | 2025 KY , a defensive back at Union County High School. In addition to his ability to drop the offense on kick returns, what impresses me about Schroeder is his ability to protect the backfield from the rush. I also like how Schroeder can shut down passing targets in the backfield with his relentless coverage and utilize his speed to catch players from along the edge.
I am additionally impressed with Jashaun Robinson Jashaun Robinson 5’7″ | 100 lbs | DB Owensboro School | 2025 KY , a defensive back at Owensboro High School. What makes Robinson so impactful is his ability to protect the backfield, using his size and speed to quickly catch up to receivers and make commanding stops. I also like how Robinson can adapt to the offense and use bursts of speed to quickly drop playmakers and keep them out of scoring range.
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Claiming the number three spot on my list is Jaxson Howell Jaxson Howell DB Greenwood | 2025 KY , a defensive back at Greenwood High School. What stands out about Howell’s playstyle is his ability to read the offense like a book and pounce on receivers shortly after the catch. I also like Howell’s ability to attack the ball in the air, proving his ability to be disruptive in coverage. Howell can also catch and stop the rush from anywhere on the field.
Another skilled prospect to watch for is Israel Carter-Swanagan Israel Carter-Swanagan 5’9″ | 125 lbs | DB Owensboro | 2025 KY , a defensive back at Owensboro High School. On top of outstanding speed and versatility, what impresses me about Swanagan is his ability to be explosive off the snap, utlizing his size and physical edge to apply heavy pressure on the quarterback. I also like how Swanagan can be disruptive in coverage, using his arms to swat the ball away.
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Coming in at number five on my list is De’Andre Watkins De’Andre Watkins 5’10” | 175 lbs | DB Christian County | 2026 State KY , a defensive back at Christian County High School. What I like about Watkins is his awareness, ability to predict the pass and his ability to pick off the quarterback. I also like how Watkins can lock in to quickly stop the rush, using bursts of speed to attack the ball-carrier and consistently keep the offense out of scoring position.
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Also worth mentioning is Jordan Haskins Jordan Haskins 5’11” | 170 lbs | DB Bryan Station | 2027 State KY , a defensive back at Bryan Station High School. What impresses me about Haskins is his ability to capitalize on the loose ball, using his breakaway speed to blast into enemy territory. I also like how Haskins can lock down his man in coverage, showcasing his ability to stun receivers, get in front of the ball and pick off the quarterback.