Rising Defensive Backs from PRZ PA Combine

While only 6 defensive backs were selected as Top Performers from the PA Combine Series, that doesn't mean the talent stopped there. Each of these players excelled on the field Saturday afternoon, and if it was my decision, a few of these players would have slipped into the category of Top Performer. These are the DBs that have huge upside and will gain traction once the season begins.    Jaeden made a strong impression at the PA Combine, earning my vote as one of the top performing defensive backs in attendance. Despite being on the smaller side, he held his own against taller receivers, consistently disrupting routes and making life difficult for opposing pass catchers. His ability to stay low and balanced in coverage allowed him to quickly close gaps and break on the ball without hesitation.   Jaeden didn't back down from a challenge either, confidently handling flashy route runners and proving he can get vertical when needed. With his tenacity and polished technique, Jaeden has the tools to compete at the next level and deserves a shot to prove himself against top-tier competition.     Braydon delivered a performance that, in my mind, earned him a spot among the top five defensive backs at the PRZ PA Combine. Built with a sturdy frame and powerful legs, he excelled at coming upfield quickly, chopping down with speed and intent. His aggressive hands at the line of scrimmage allowed him to disrupt receivers' timing, often driving them backwards with a strong jab that caused the receiver to get off balanced.   Naturally a safety, Braydon demonstrated his versatility by showcasing his physicality and readiness to react. With his impressive blend of strength, speed, and awareness, he's a player to keep an eye on this fall.     Reth is another defensive back to watch as the offseason winds down and we get nearer to the fall. Traveling up from Virginia, he showed he can hang with the top-tier talent Pennsylvania had to offer. Demonstrating sharp closing speed that made it tough for receivers to gain separation on shorter routes, Reth made life tough for receivers Saturday afternoon. What stood out the most in Reth's game was how he consistently funneled receivers toward the sideline, using the boundary as an extra defender to make passes nearly uncatchable.   Reth's strong hands and focus stood out in contested situations as well, showing his ability to disrupt catches and break up passes. While he did get caught peeking at the quarterback on a go route, leading to a slip-up, that's an easy fix for a talented player like Reth. With a few adjustments, Reth has the potential to be a lockdown presence from the cornerback position.     Jelane proved why he's ranked as the number 17 defensive back in Pennsylvania with an impressive showing at the PA Combine. He demonstrated excellent pad level in his transitions, allowing for quick changes of direction and rapid reactions to the movement of the receivers. With his twitchy athleticism and explosive closing speed, he showed real shutdown corner potential.   Jelane consistently forced receivers to the boundary as well, maintaining tight coverage downfield and cutting off passing angles. His ability to stay in lockstep with route runners made him a standout performer Saturday afternoon, reinforcing his reputation as a top-tier DB in the state.     Haamir is a bigger-bodied defensive back with ideal size for a safety. He used his length and strong hand work at the line to disrupt receivers, making it tough for them to get a clean release. His physicality paid off when he came up with a bobbled interception against a wideout, showcasing his ball skills.   While Haamir had some difficulty sticking with quicker receivers in man coverage, his natural safety instincts and ability to keep the play in front of him should allow him to thrive in deeper zones. With a bit more polish, he has the potential to be a reliable presence in the secondary.

While only 6 defensive backs were selected as Top Performers from the PA Combine Series, that doesn't mean the talent stopped there. Each of these players excelled on the field Saturday afternoon, and if it was my decision, a few of these players would have slipped into the category of Top Performer. These are the DBs that have huge upside and will gain traction once the season begins.