Impact Returners: Good Counsel

As the 2025 high school football season approaches, the WCAC finds itself in a competitive era where last year's playoff contenders are reloading rather than rebuilding. With a wave of talented underclassmen gaining valuable experience during the 2024 campaign, Good Counsel is poised for another deep playoff run, led by a mix of returning stars and emerging young talent.    Rice Emerging as Offensive Leader for the Falcons   Rice led the Falcons to an impressive 3-1 record in WCAC play this season and a berth in the WCAC Championship game. The rising quarterback threw for 1,254 yards.   His standout performance came against Pennsylvania powerhouse St. Joseph's Prep, where he threw for 244 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion against top-tier competition.   Rice consistently demonstrates accuracy and touch, often placing the ball perfectly over defenders. He's equally effective on the move, delivering precise throws on rollouts and designed bootlegs.   So far, Rice has earned his first Division I offer from Sacramento State University, with more expected to follow as his profile continues to grow. With the Falcons reloading and several underclassmen stepping into larger roles, Rice will have the opportunity to develop new playmakers around him. Expect him to take another leap next season as he continues to air it out in what could be a breakout year.       Brown consistently disrupts opposing offenses with his quick acceleration and strong hands, effortlessly shedding blocks to penetrate the backfield. His impact was felt across the board—racking up tackles for loss, safeties, interceptions, and sacks. He finished the season with 61 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, and a safety. Brown's wrestling background is evident in his hand technique and explosive power. With his unique blend of physicality and instinct, the seasoned veteran is primed for an exciting season.     Taylor is an athletic, quick-twitch linebacker whose violent pass rush sets him apart. He has a knack for shedding blockers and still making plays in the backfield, showcasing both agility and power. A tackling machine between the tackles, he totaled 66 stops and 2.5 sacks this past season. Now a rising senior, Taylor has already attracted attention on the recruiting trail, picking up offers from Liberty, Syracuse, and Howard University.       Sweeney is a highly touted recruit who has recently picked up offers from powerhouse programs like Alabama and Ohio State. He uses his length and athleticism to consistently disrupt opposing backfields, finishing the season with 7.5 sacks for a loss of 52 yards, 9 tackles for loss, and 49 total tackles. Just a rising junior, Sweeney is only scratching the surface of his potential, expect him to take his game to the next level and dominate over the next two seasons.     Ellis possesses a rare combination of strong hands and body control, making him a dangerous weapon in contested catch situations. He can haul in one-handed grabs and elevate to snatch the ball out of the air with authority. After the catch, he can run with determination and shows the ability to make defenders miss in the open field. In 2024, Ellis posted 275 receiving yards and three touchdowns, and with his upside, the 2025 season could be his breakout year. He's already drawing interest from Division I programs, picking up offers from Delaware State and Howard University.

As the 2025 high school football season approaches, the WCAC finds itself in a competitive era where last year's playoff contenders are reloading rather than rebuilding. With a wave of talented underclassmen gaining valuable experience during the 2024 campaign, Good Counsel is poised for another deep playoff run, led by a mix of returning stars and emerging young talent.