CR Spring Ball Tour Seventy-First Defense

Spring Ball: Seventy-First Falcons   As the final whistles of camp season fade and the energy of spring sweeps across the field, it's time to shift the focus to the players who will define the next level of competition. Spring Ball offers a fresh start and an invaluable opportunity to assess top prospects and the teams that will be shaping the landscape for the upcoming season.   For scouts, coaches, and fans alike, it's a chance to see how athletes have developed over the off-season — refining their skills, adding new dimensions to their game, and adjusting to the ever-evolving demands of the sport. From rising stars looking to make their mark to seasoned players sharpening their craft, this period is crucial in determining who will emerge as the next big thing.   In this article, we'll spotlight the Seventy-First Falcons Defense, highlighting the standout prospects who could make an immediate impact this season.   [player_tooltip player_id='1408808' first='John' last='Archer'] DL c/o 2027    [player_tooltip player_id='1408808' first='John' last='Archer'] Defensive Lineman, Class of 2027   [player_tooltip player_id='1408808' first='John' last='Archer'] is undeniably one of the top prospects in the country for his class, regardless of position. At 6'5" and 320 lbs, the junior is an imposing physical presence, and his size alone makes him stand out on the field. However, it's not just his stature that makes Archer special—he's consistently demonstrated his strength and conditioning, often leading or being near the top in drills for his position group.   His work ethic and physical tools have already earned him recognition, with the University of North Carolina extending an offer earlier in the day. Archer's combination of size, athleticism, and drive make him a rare talent, and he's well on his way to being one of the most sought-after recruits in his class.    Marque Winters DL c/o 2026    Marque Winters Defensive Lineman, Class of 2026   Standing at 6'2"-6'3" and weighing close to 250 lbs, Marque Winters is an imposing physical presence on the field. Known for his strength and explosive athleticism, he plays a key role in any defensive front, and his motor is relentless. Winters' long arms and quick first step make him a nightmare for offensive linemen, while his ability to get off the ball and disrupt plays sets him apart.   While he is a dominant force as a defensive lineman, Winters' versatility shines through. He has even taken reps at offensive guard, where he looked impressive—demonstrating not only his physicality but also his adaptability and high football IQ. This speaks to his well-rounded skill set and willingness to contribute wherever needed.   Winters has the potential to become a cornerstone of any defensive line, and his ability to step into multiple roles only adds to his value as a future prospect.    Xaiveon Gear LB c/o 2026    Xaiveon Gear Linebacker, Class of 2026   Xaiveon Gear is emerging as the vocal leader and anchor of his defense. Last season, he made a significant impact, consistently coming up with key plays in the flats—whether it was covering receivers or tracking running backs out of the backfield. His ability to make plays in space, combined with his high football IQ, makes him a constant threat on defense.   Physically, Gear has noticeably developed, appearing much larger than the 175 lbs he was listed at last season. He may now be closing in on 190 lbs, adding strength and size without sacrificing the burst and agility that have made him a dynamic playmaker. His combination of speed, strength, and awareness allows him to cover a lot of ground, and he looks the part of a leader both on and off the field.   Gear is poised to take on an even larger role this season, with the tools and mentality to lead the defense and continue making big plays when his team needs him most.    Angel Clark LB c/o 2026    Angel Clark Linebacker, Class of 2026   I've known Angel Clark since his freshman year at St. Paul's, and it's been incredible to watch his development over the years. From the start, it was clear that Clark had a natural instinct for the game, and he's only gotten better with each off-season of work. Now as a season, he plays with a great combination of intelligence, athleticism, and leadership.   Clark's ability to read the game and react quickly has always stood out, making him a key figure on defense. He's shown impressive growth, both physically (5'11 220lbs) and mentally, and continues to refine his skills. Whether it's his tackling, coverage, or leadership, Clark consistently demonstrates that he's someone you can rely on in any situation.    Dwight Drew DB c/o 2026    Dwight Drew Jr. Defensive Back, Class of 2026   I've had the privilege of covering Dwight “DJ” Drew Jr. since his freshman year, and it's been amazing to see his growth on the field. Over the past few years, Drew has been a key contributor to the Falcons' championship teams, and now, as the most experienced defensive back in the room, he's poised to take on an even larger leadership role.   Drew has always been known for his exceptional tackling ability, especially for a defensive back. His physicality and tenacity in run support set him apart. This spring, he's been focusing primarily on pass coverage drills, and his skills in this area are continuing to shine. Drew has a smooth drop, fluid hips, and excellent hands, all of which allow him to be a formidable presence in coverage. His ability to cover ground quickly, along with his playmaking ability, makes him a dynamic force on the back end of the defense.   As he continues to develop, Drew is primed to be a major difference-maker for his team this season.

Spring Ball: Seventy-First Falcons