Defensive Mid-Season Highlight Film To Watch

[player_tooltip player_id='1275965' first='Sam' last='Bartoszek'] has been on my radar since the summer, and his midseason highlight tape shows why. He's still stout against the run, showing strength and consistency in every snap. What stands out now, though, is his improved get-off. His first-step quickness is creating more havoc at the line of scrimmage. He's shooting his hands violently, especially in run defense, which allows him to disrupt plays early.   Another thing that impresses me is his versatility. You see him in multiple alignments—sometimes standing up as a linebacker, other times with his hand in the dirt as an edge rusher, and even playing on the interior in specific packages for St. Peter's Prep. Sam's ability to hold the point of attack and set the edge is top-notch, regardless of where he lines up. He uses his leverage and stays square, making him a nightmare for opposing offenses trying to establish the run.   But Sam needs to improve as a pass rusher to elevate his game further. We've seen flashes—he's added a swim move to his arsenal but needs more tools. More one-on-one wins and a comprehensive array of pass-rush moves will take him to the next level. If Sam can expand his pass-rush skills, it will boost his recruitment and solidify his place as a top defender in New Jersey. Sam has offers from Kean, TCNJ, and Ithaca.      Bryce Clark might only be a sophomore, but he's already making a name at Camden Catholic. Standing at 5'7” and 140 pounds, he doesn't have the size that pops off the screen, but he makes up for his stature with football IQ and instincts. His standout trait? His ability to read the quarterback's eyes. Bryce shows incredible trust in what he sees, and that's translated into four interceptions this season, two of which he's taken back for touchdowns.   What I appreciate about his game is his versatility. He's not just roaming as a deep safety; Bryce also plays in the box and can cover on the outside, adding value wherever he's lined up. He's a playmaker on both sides of the ball, but his impact on defense has been particularly impressive.   Though his size might cause some coaches to overlook him, his ability to produce turnovers and turn them into points can't be ignored. As he continues to develop, both physically and mentally, Bryce has the potential to turn heads and force attention from schools that might otherwise pass due to his size. He's an ascending player to watch closely.      [player_tooltip player_id='1234274' first='Darwin' last='Walker'], a standout from Cherokee, has consistently impressed since last year. Over the summer, his film showcased his ability to take the ball away, a skill that's only become more evident midway through this season. One of his standout traits is how well he reads in zone coverage. He's a ballhawk who doesn't just collect turnovers but turns them into points, often taking interceptions to the house.   What sets Darwin apart is his impact in run defense. He's not just your typical cornerback who sticks to the perimeter. He plays with the aggression of a safety, forcing the issue in run defense, making tackles for loss, and consistently getting involved in crucial stops. His versatility is a significant strength, especially as he chases down plays from the backside or tracks runners downfield, showcasing relentless effort on every snap.   His offensive involvement is another aspect of his game that has progressed since the summer. Darwin's team has recognized his playmaking ability and is getting him more touches, allowing him to showcase his speed and explosiveness with the ball.   On the recruiting front, Darwin already holds offers from Villanova and Bucknell and a preferred walk-on offer from NC State. While defense is likely his future, his ability to contribute on both sides of the ball makes him invaluable for the Cherokee. With his size, instincts, and speed, [player_tooltip player_id='1234274' first='Darwin' last='Walker'] is proving he has the talent to play at the FCS level, if not higher. He's putting together a solid season and catching the eyes of Division I programs.   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/darwinwalk2025/status/1842964810415391138 </div></figure>     [player_tooltip player_id='1557925' first='Jasiah' last='Bullock'] has been a crucial part of Winslow's impressive, undefeated start this season. At 5'9” and 180 pounds, Bullock may not have the thickest frame for a linebacker, but his length and instincts have made him an impactful playmaker, especially on defense. What stands out immediately is his ability to read plays. He has a knack for diagnosing what's coming, and his football IQ is apparent, particularly in pass coverage. Bullock disrupts passing lanes with his length and even snagged an interception earlier this season.   While his coverage skills are solid, where Bullock truly excels is in the run game. His instincts at the line of scrimmage allow him to find gaps in blocking schemes and attack downhill precisely. He's a sure tackler, especially in one-on-one situations, and he always finishes the play with authority. His relentless motor is another standout trait. He's giving maximum effort every snap, and his ability to finish at the ball carrier has been a cornerstone of Winslow's defensive solid start.   [player_tooltip player_id='1557925' first='Jasiah' last='Bullock'] deserves recognition for his role in Winslow's early success. His contributions on both sides of the ball make him a key player to watch.      Nicholas Vannatta Jr., a vigorous safety/linebacker hybrid for Pope John, immediately stands out with his size. His broad shoulders and muscular frame make him physically imposing on the field. What's impressive about Vannatta is how fluidly he moves for a player with his build. Whether playing deep safety or in the box, his athleticism shines.   As a deep safety, Vannatta shows solid instincts and ball skills. He can read plays and get over the top to make key plays on the football. However, his talents become even more evident when he's closer to the line of scrimmage. His run defense is strong, and his ability to fill gaps and take on blockers shows he might have more potential as a linebacker at the next level.   His size and ability to read and react make him a natural fit for a future box safety or linebacker role. Pope John hasn't had the season they hoped for, but Vannatta continues to stand out with his performances, particularly in the passing game. Refining his skill set will be key as he gets more opportunities to make plays. But with his frame, instincts, and athleticism, Vannatta has a bright future, especially if he transitions to a linebacker role. He's one to keep an eye on as the season progresses.   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/nick_vannatta27/status/1778606281126707365 </div></figure>