Train & Play Showcase Top Overall Performers

Fayetteville, N.C.- The second annual Carolina Recruits Train & Play event took place last week, kicking off at Campbell University. Attendees had the opportunity to sit in on a practice session, providing valuable insight into the coaching staff's approach while allowing for meaningful connections with coaches—essential for the recruiting process. Following the practice, over 40 participants made their way to Fayetteville for an exciting and competitive showcase. Among the standout performances, Josiah Wells, a senior athlete from West Johnston, earned the MVP award, while [player_tooltip player_id='1059980' first='Najee' last='Gillis'] solidified his reputation as a rising star from Pinecrest. In the following analysis, I'll break down the top ten performances from the event.   MVP: WR JOSIAH WELLS C/O 2025 WEST JOHNSTON HIGH SCHOOL    Josiah Wells – WR, Carolina Sharks   Josiah Wells, a West Johnston High School standout, was named MVP of the 2nd Annual Carolina Recruits Train & Play. Primarily a quarterback throughout his high school career, Wells has successfully transitioned to wide receiver for the Carolina Sharks, delivering his most impressive performance since joining the team.   At nearly 6'4”, Wells possesses an imposing frame, but it's his unexpected speed and long, fluid strides that set him apart. His ability to cover ground quickly makes him a constant mismatch for defenders. During the scrimmages, he showcased his complete skill set, hauling in a variety of catches — from spectacular, highlight-worthy grabs to crucial possession receptions. His knack for making clutch plays was evident, culminating in an impressive six-touchdown performance.   Wells' blend of size, speed, and natural athleticism makes him a formidable receiving threat. As he continues to refine his technique and route running, his upside at the wide receiver position is undeniable. Keep an eye on Wells as he progresses — performances like this are bound to attract attention from recruiters and coaches at the next level.    2. QB [player_tooltip player_id='1059980' first='Najee' last='Gillis'] C/O 2027 PINECREST HIGH SCHOOL    [player_tooltip player_id='1059980' first='Najee' last='Gillis'] – QB, County Boyz / Pinecrest High School   [player_tooltip player_id='1059980' first='Najee' last='Gillis'] emerged as the top underclassman at the 2nd Annual Carolina Recruits Train & Play, demonstrating composure and leadership well beyond his years. The rising junior commanded the field with confidence, consistently making big-time throws and efficiently moving the ball downfield.   One of Gillis' most impressive traits was his ability to adapt when plays broke down. Whether extending the play with his legs or directing his receivers to open spots, he showcased excellent field awareness and decision-making. Even in challenging moments — whether it was a missed throw or a dropped pass — Gillis remained poised, never letting frustration affect his game. His resilience and competitive spirit were evident as he battled through adversity and continued to lead his team effectively.   With his maturity, strong arm, and natural leadership, Gillis is undoubtedly a name to watch. As he gains more experience and refines his skills, expect him to draw significant attention from college programs. Keep an eye on this promising young quarterback — his best is yet to come.    3. ATH JACOBY GOODWIN C/O 2025 TERRY SANFORD HIGH SCHOOL    Jacoby Goodwin – ATH, Terry Sanford / Carolina Sharks   Senior athlete Jacoby Goodwin has taken his game to new heights this offseason, solidifying himself as one of the most reliable pass catchers on the Carolina Sharks roster. His growth has been evident on both sides of the ball, and now he's making a name for himself as a standout defensive back as well.   In limited reps at defensive back, Goodwin was dominant, recording multiple pass breakups and not allowing a single catch. His instincts, quick reactions, and physicality made it nearly impossible for opposing receivers to gain separation. On offense, he continued to shine, scoring three touchdowns and securing several clutch receptions on crucial third downs.   Goodwin's versatility, competitive nature, and unwavering reliability make him a coach's dream and a college program's ideal recruit. With his ability to impact the game in all phases, any school would be fortunate to have him on their roster. Expect his recruitment to gain even more traction as he continues to showcase his dynamic skill set.    4. ATH DOMINIC TILLMAN C/O 2026 RICHMOND SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL    Dominic Tillman - Richmond Senior/County Boyz   Dominic Tillman immediately stands out due to his impressive size. At nearly 6'5", the rising senior possesses the frame of a legitimate power forward, making him a unique asset on the field. Tillman has showcased his versatility by playing multiple positions for his Richmond Senior program, and now, with the County Boyz, he is honing his skills at wide receiver.   During a recent scrimmage, Tillman made several eye-popping, contested "Mossed" catches, highlighting his exceptional hands and leaping ability. Despite his tall, lean build, he possesses broad shoulders that suggest he can add more weight and strength as he progresses to the next level.   Tillman's physical tools, combined with his ability to make highlight-reel catches, make him a prospect to watch. His stock is expected to rise significantly by the time August rolls around, as his raw potential and ability to develop into a more refined wide receiver become increasingly evident.    5. DB TY COVINGTON C/O 2027 RICHMOND SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL    Ty Covington - Richmond Senior/County Boyz   Ty Covington was one of the standout true cornerbacks at the Train and Play event. He demonstrated excellent man-to-man coverage skills and showcased a strong ability to recognize routes and jump them while in zone coverage. Covington's playmaking ability was evident, as he not only broke up several passes but also came away with a few interceptions.   With his combination of size, talent, and instincts, Covington is poised to make a significant impact next season. Keep an eye on him this year as his potential continues to shine through.    6. LB DACORI DAVIS C/O 2026 CAPE FEAR HIGH SCHOOL    Dacori Davis - Cape Fear/Carolina Sharks   Dacori Davis was a true menace during the scrimmage at the Train and Play event. The rising senior has primarily played on the edge for his Cape Fear High School program, but as he transitions into his senior year, he will move to linebacker. Davis possesses all the physical traits you'd want at the position, and while he is still learning the nuances of the linebacker role, you wouldn't know it from watching him on the field.   He consistently made his presence felt, never allowing anything to cross his face without making contact. His playmaking ability was on full display as he came up with a game-winning interception. Davis is not only a physical force but also extremely fast and fearless in his approach to the game.   With his combination of athleticism, strength, and growing knowledge of the linebacker position, Davis is poised to make a major impact in his senior season.    7. ATH [player_tooltip player_id='1630694' first='Chris' last='George'] C/O 2027 EAST SURRY HIGH SCHOOL    [player_tooltip player_id='1630694' first='Chris' last='George'] – East Surry / County Boyz   [player_tooltip player_id='1630694' first='Chris' last='George'] is a remarkable athlete with impressive versatility, excelling as both a defensive back and a wide receiver. During the scrimmage with the County Boyz, George demonstrated exceptional skill and athleticism in both positions. His natural abilities were evident throughout the game, showcasing a deep understanding of the game and a high level of athleticism that allowed him to thrive on both sides of the ball.   While George's talents are undeniable as a defensive back, his future may be brightest as a wide receiver at the next level. His ability to make sharp, precise cuts, combined with his speed and hands, gives him a solid foundation to be a playmaker in the receiving game.   Looking ahead, George has informed me that he will be transferring to Richmond Senior for his junior year. This move will place him in an already talented skill position group, providing him with the opportunity to further refine his skills and compete at a high level. His presence will certainly add depth and skill to an already loaded roster.   Overall, [player_tooltip player_id='1630694' first='Chris' last='George'] is an athlete to watch as he continues to develop. His skill set, combined with his work ethic, makes him a valuable prospect with a lot of potential at the next level.    8. WR AMEIR MORRISON C/O 2026 RICHMOND SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL    Ameir Morrison – Richmond Senior / County Boyz   Ameir Morrison is truly a diamond in the rough. While he played sparingly for Richmond Senior last season, I fully expect this to be the breakout year for him. Morrison possesses all the physical tools that make him a standout prospect—he's big, fast, and strong, with an athletic build that allows him to excel in multiple areas of the game.   Morrison runs sharp, crisp routes and consistently competes at a high level. His great leaping ability allows him to elevate above defenders and make spectacular catches. His physicality combined with his hands and instincts give him the potential to be a game-changer, especially in contested situations.   During the scrimmage at the training event, Morrison demonstrated his ability to find the end zone, scoring multiple times and showing that he can be a legitimate red zone threat. His performance in these moments reflects his growing confidence and capability on the field.   With a strong work ethic and the right opportunity, Morrison is poised for a breakout season. His blend of size, speed, and ability to make spectacular plays will make him a player to watch this year.    9. WR DJ LAWSON C/O 2025 SOUTH JOHNSTON HIGH SCHOOL    DJ Lawson – South Johnston / Carolina Sharks   DJ Lawson certainly made his presence felt during the scrimmage, getting the party started by scoring the first two touchdowns of the day. As the star receiver for South Johnston, Lawson displayed incredible speed, easily one of the fastest players on the field. His ability to create separation is unmatched, and he consistently found holes in zone coverages, making him a reliable target throughout the scrimmage.   What sets Lawson apart is his hands—he made every catch that came his way, showing his ability to execute even in tight windows. He's a true playmaker who can take over the game, and if defenders don't get a hand on him at the line of scrimmage, they'll have a tough time stopping him. Lawson's speed, combined with his sharp route-running, makes him a threat to score from anywhere on the field.   With his combination of speed, agility, and playmaking ability, Lawson is a player who can turn any catch into a touchdown. He's one to watch as he continues to develop and showcase his talents.    10. DB JAYVAN LOVETTE C/O 2026 PURNELL SWETT HIGH SCHOOL    Jayvan Lovette – Purnell Swett / County Boyz   Jayvan Lovette is a true hybrid athlete with the size and power to excel in multiple roles on the field. Standing at 6'2" and weighing almost 200 lbs, Lovette has the build to thrive as a safety or even play in the box as a linebacker. His physicality, combined with his athleticism, makes him a versatile weapon for any defense.   Heading into his senior season, Lovette is a player to watch closely. His combination of size, strength, and speed gives him the ability to impact the game in a variety of ways. Whether it's covering the pass, playing downhill in the run game, or blitzing off the edge, he has the tools to be a major asset for his team.   As he heads into his final high school season, Lovette has the potential to be a gem of a recruit. His versatility and physical presence make him an intriguing prospect, and he's definitely a player who should be on the radar for college programs.

Fayetteville, N.C.- The second annual Carolina Recruits Train & Play event took place last week, kicking off at Campbell University. Attendees had the opportunity to sit in on a practice session, providing valuable insight into the coaching staff's approach while allowing for meaningful connections with coaches—essential for the recruiting process. Following the practice, over 40 participants made their way to Fayetteville for an exciting and competitive showcase. Among the standout performances, Josiah Wells, a senior athlete from West Johnston, earned the MVP award, while Najee Gillis Najee Gillis 5'9" | 150 lbs | QB Pinecrest | 2027 NC solidified his reputation as a rising star from Pinecrest. In the following analysis, I'll break down the top ten performances from the event.