2027 Defensive Players to Watch

Cleary capped off the 2027 season with an impressive 142 tackles, leading the league by more than 30. Along with his tackle totals, he recorded 10 tackles for loss (TFL) and 3 sacks. His standout performance came in a game where he tallied 22 tackles, his highest of the season, and registered all 3 of his sacks in one game, disrupting the pocket at every turn. A force in the middle of the defense, Cleary consistently stuffed the run and blew up lead blockers between the tackles.   Offensively, Cleary carried that same physical presence from his center position. He dominated defenders, blocking them through the whistle and, at times, all the way to the sideline. His dominant play earned him a spot on the All-Washington County First Team as a linebacker, and his achievements extended beyond the field. Cleary maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA, proving that his commitment to excellence goes beyond football. It's been a remarkable year for the standout athlete, both on and off the field.       Jackson is an impressive prospect, boasting great size and exceptional athleticism, making him a dangerous weapon off the edge. He sheds blocks with ease, utilizing his long wingspan, and his wide tackle radius allows him to make plays after beating his blocker. This season, Jackson finished with 9 sacks for a loss of 29 yards, along with 23 quarterback hurries, 50 tackles, 16 tackles for loss (TFLs), and 9 pass deflections.   Up until last week, Jackson had received only one offer, from Morgan State, but his recruitment has quickly gained momentum. In a span of just two days, he landed offers from the University of Maryland, Tennessee, and Virginia Tech, solidifying his status as one of the top rising prospects in the state.       Odom possesses explosive playmaking ability, making him a dynamic threat on both sides of the ball. As a safety for Anacostia's defense, delivering punishing hits, while also showcasing his speed by taking interceptions to the house. His explosiveness carries over to his offensive play, where he serves as a deep-ball threat, effortlessly blowing past defenders.   As a wide receiver, Odom displays impressive ball skills, consistently making contested catches and fighting for the ball in critical situations. Defensively, he led Washington, D.C. with 6 interceptions, totaling 188 interception return yards, and added 49 tackles to his stat line. Odom plays a crucial role on both sides of the ball, embodying the versatile, two-way athlete that coaches rely on to make game-changing plays.       Bowie tied the sophomore class with 9 sacks on the season, but his impact didn't stop there. He also racked up an impressive 99 tackles and 31 tackles for loss (TFLs). Known for his quickness off the ball and violent hands, Bowie consistently tossed blockers aside, catapulting into the backfield to disrupt plays. His bull rush is a nightmare for offensive linemen, as he's in their chest before they can even get into their kick step.   After his dominant performance, Bowie earned Co-Defensive Player of the Year honors and was named to the All-Washington County First Team. With both Bowie and Cleary anchoring the heart of the defense, expect to hear plenty from the Williamsport front seven over the next two years.       Erdos is an absolute weapon for Boys' Latin, dominating the MIAA in all three phases of the game. Offensively, he is a key receiving threat; defensively, he's a ball hawk capable of making difficult interceptions and turning them into big plays as he transforms into a running back with the ball in his hands. On special teams, he also excels, producing electrifying plays in the return game.   Defensively, Erdos recorded 5 interceptions and 51 tackles this season, showcasing his ability to impact the game in a variety of ways. His dynamic playmaking ability on both sides of the ball keeps fans on the edge of their seats. Despite his impressive career at Boys' Latin and maintaining a GPA over 4.0, it is surprising that he has yet to announce any offers. However, once he begins to receive his first few offers, I expect Erdos' recruitment to explode.