2025 Gateway to North Impressions

One of the most unique camps of the year. Gateway to North provides an exposure opportunity for those Northern Michigan prospects who typically don't get as much exposure as those in the big cities. Luckily, I was able to get good looks at a few standouts.    Wynn took up much (if not most) of my evaluation time.   I like Wynn quite a bit. He was far and away the best Quarterback at camp, and he was a very consistent passer. Nearly every ball he threw during routes on air was pinpoint. Throwing to outs/comebacks, Wynn was able to flash great timing and accuracy. He also showed impressive touch on his deep balls. The extremely wide variety of receiver talent made this especially impressive.   Wynn's mechanics are also consistent, for better and for worse. His entire upper body is consistent, and his release is of average length. My only gripe here is that Wynn struggles to bring his lower body into the throw. As a result, the throw velocity suffers.   Another positive is what Wynn has accomplished this offseason. Say what you want about 7on7, but Wynn tells me that it's helped him tremendously with slowing the game down and learning defenses. The ladder is an especially important trait for any QB. While I don't know if he's in the elite tier of Quarterback IQ, I trust that Wynn is above average at the very least.   Bottom line- Wynn was consistent and accurate. Two traits I happen to weigh very heavily when evaluating QBs. Wynn has earned himself a big boost in the Quarterback rankings. Considering the lack of Varsity experience at the top of this QB class, Wynn could continue to climb the rankings past the next update.     Another player that I was looking forward to seeing, especially since he was just offered by Miami (OH).   In my opinion, LJ has the most upside as a receiving running back. Something that I very rarely say.   I didn't get an incredible look at LJ's athleticism, as none of the drills were too intense. Though I can tell from the route running that LJ has an excellent athletic profile. Quick feet, very fast cuts, and some extremely impressive yet simple routes. In other words, LJ is a great athlete, and he knows how to use his athletic ability to get open without trying to overdo it. LJ showed off solid ball tracking on deep balls. I didn't see any drops, but I'd still say hands and getting upfield after the catch are things to work on. LJ struggled at times to secure the catch stay balanced through the catch.   It's obvious that LJ has been hard at work. He's gained muscle and improved his all-around athleticism. If he keeps up the trajectory, I could see LJ being a phenomenal Running Back or Slot WR at the next level.     I only planned to evaluate the Class of 2027 and 2028. Sometimes, there's an incoming senior that's just too good to ignore.   Corie was too good to ignore. The best receiver at camp. Loved Corie's route running, explosiveness, hands, really everything. His tape proves that he can earn RAC. It also highlights some of his defensive abilities and overall IQ.   Do not sleep on Corie. I'm happy to see offers from Adrian and Calvin already. Any D3 or D2 program looking for a slot receiver should do their homework on Corie.     Max has the necessary traits to become a college prospect. Namely, Max is strong, hits hard, and gives great effort.   Most of my evaluation of Max came from drillwork rather than 1on1s. During the drills, Max always hit the bag as hard as he could, at times knocking over the bag holder. As I said, Max is built well. One area where Max needs to improve is his positioning. His footwork is all over the place, and he struggles to bring his lower body into hits. If Max can learn the little things while giving that same effort and physicality, I can easily see him picking up college offers in a year's time.     Penn had himself a nice showing. He showed nice flashes.   At his best, Penn was able to get some juice behind his throws and deliver an accurate ball. When stationary, Penn had a few extremely impressive throws, including perfect placement and timing on a 10-yard out. A few of his deep balls further proved that Penn can be an accurate quarterback. Though he was all-around inconsistent, which is very common with incoming sophomore QBs.   I love the tools. I feel that Penn can be a phenomenal quarterback for Alma this season.     Excuse the quick evaluation, but Jonathan was worth a shoutout.   I was impressed with Jonathan's effort, change of direction, and build. He flashed some great stuff during the initial drill portion. Specifically, quick feet, a good backpedal, and good change of direction. When it comes to Class of 2028 linebackers, Jonathan is ahead of the curve. I regret not focusing on a few of Jonathan's 1on1 reps.   Expect Jonathan to be on the Watch List during the next rankings update.

One of the most unique camps of the year. Gateway to North provides an exposure opportunity for those Northern Michigan prospects who typically don't get as much exposure as those in the big cities. Luckily, I was able to get good looks at a few standouts.