5 Unpolished Diamonds: 2027 Recruits That Could Shine This Fall

We're looking at 5 talented, yet raw 2027 recruits who could burst onto the scene starting this fall    Smitley possesses a handful of traits that make you think he's got a very bright future on the field. He seems to see the whole field and then has the athletic ability to string a play out and wrap up the tackle in open space. He's got a good head on his shoulders and doesn't make the same mistake twice. He's instinctive and will try putting himself in a spot to make a play. As he gets more reps and sees things again and again, he will pick up on tendencies and shut them down.     While he may be a bit young and raw at this very moment, Simmons has talent and an upside. He's best down the field making catches and picking up yards after the catch. His ball skills are fantastic and he's made some nice looking 1-handed grabs already. Over the next few years depending on how he develops and plays on the field, he could quickly take off. He's a willing blocker downfield as well and seems to be willing to learn.     Getting work in the Varsity ranks during any year of your career is a good thing, but being on the field, showing versatility, and proving that you can be a leader for the program is another. Harper had a fantastic freshman year and all year was gaining his confidence while making plays. He's an aggressive lineman who likes to be in the face of the guy across from him trying to drag him back. He's fairly nimble for his size as well and does a good job staying on target when he goes on the move.     Tolliver is a speedy player who has the potential to make plays on both sides of the ball. His acceleration is top-notch and he's got no issue outrunning just about everyone he comes across. While he does have great speed, he's a bit raw in his route running and the little nuances of playing receiver downfield. As he plays and gets on the field, I anticipate he will pick up on them and round out his game. He's young and checks boxes, so it'll be up to him to put it all together on the field.     I'm a big fan of Zilz and think he will be a good player for years to come. There are certain areas of the game he seems to be slightly ahead of the curve. He's also thick and has a good frame for his age. He is only 5'9" as of right now, but he's still growing. His reactions on the field tell me that he's not one to get burned and fail to learn from that mistake. He was on the field as a freshman and should be a full-time starter this year. With how he plays, attacks the ball, and helps lead the guys around him he reminds me of a son of a football coach. I expect Zilz to be a good player.

We're looking at 5 talented, yet raw 2027 recruits who could burst onto the scene starting this fall