Preseason Review - Desoto Eagles

The DeSoto Eagles are entering the 2025 season with high expectations after an impressive 11-3 overall record and a 6-1 district run in 2024. Under the leadership of veteran head coach Claude Mathis, the Eagles have reloaded with talent and are focused on taking the next step. With a strong returning core and a culture built on discipline, speed, and toughness, DeSoto is aiming to not only make another deep playoff push but to finish the job and bring home a state title. Here are the key players to be on the look out for :   DeSoto Eagles 2025 Football Schedule   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>8/30 – @ Creekside</li>   <li>9/5 – @ North Crowley</li>   <li>9/12 – vs Miller</li>   <li>9/19 – @ Mesquite*</li>   <li>9/26 – vs Waxahachie*</li>   <li>10/10 – @ Duncanville*</li>   <li>10/17 – @ Horn*</li>   <li>10/24 – vs Cedar Hill*</li>   <li>10/31 – @ Skyline*</li>   <li>11/6 – vs Lancaster*</li> </ul>    Legend may have started the 2024 season as a backup, but when his number was called, he delivered like a seasoned veteran. Whether it was extending plays with his legs or making timely throws under pressure, Legend consistently made things happen when it mattered most. His calm presence in the pocket and natural leadership quickly earned the respect of his teammates and coaching staff.   Now heading into the 2025 season as the full-time starter, Legend is fully in command of the offense. With a full offseason to build chemistry and take the reins, expectations are sky high. His blend of playmaking ability, toughness, and poise make him one of the most exciting quarterbacks to watch this year. Don't be surprised if he turns heads across the state.      Myson isn't your typical running back he's a relentless workhorse built for physicality and production. Standing out with a punishing running style, he welcomes contact and runs with purpose, often turning what should be short gains into statement making plays. In 2024, he racked up 911 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, proving his ability to carry the load and deliver in crucial moments.   What sets Myson apart is not just his power, but his motor. He runs angry, lowers his shoulder through arm tackles, and consistently finishes runs falling forward. College programs have taken notice he holds offers from national powers including Florida, Alabama, Miami, Georgia, Florida State, and more. With his blend of toughness, vision, and high end production. Myson is now heading into his JR season ready to elevate his game.      Sarod Baker brings a different dynamic to the backfield more of a lightning to Myson's thunder. A true scat back, Baker excels in space with quick bursts, sharp cuts, and the ability to turn short gains into explosive plays. But don't let the label fool you—he's not afraid of contact and will lower his shoulder when needed, showing toughness between the tackles.   Despite splitting carries in 2024, Baker made the most of his touches and proved to be a versatile weapon. Whether it's catching passes out of the backfield or slipping through tight running lanes, he brings value on every down. His skill set has attracted offers from Minnesota, New Mexico State, and San Diego State. With more opportunities on the horizon, expect Baker to take another step forward and solidify himself as one of the most complete backs in the region.      Ethan is a flat out burner at the wide receiver position, and his 2024 production backs it up. With 824 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns, he proved to be one of the most explosive playmakers in the state. His top end speed, quick release, and ability to take the top off any defense make him a nightmare for opposing secondaries.   What separates Ethan is not just his speed, but his precision as a route runner and his ability to finish. He tracks the deep ball effortlessly and consistently finds ways to create separation, even against double coverage. His big-play potential caught national attention and he's now committed to USC, where he'll bring instant electricity to the Trojans' offense.      Jace is a playmaker in the secondary who thrives at the nickel spot. He plays with instincts, quick reaction time, and a physical edge that allows him to impact the game in multiple ways. Whether it's breaking on a pass, slipping through to make a stop in the backfield, or locking down a slot receiver, Jace consistently puts himself in position to make plays.   He brings energy to the defense and never shies away from contact. His versatility and awareness allow him to match up with different types of offensive threats, making him a valuable asset in any defensive scheme. Expect Jace to continue rising as a defensive leader this season.      Janthony is a natural playmaker in the secondary with a nose for the football. Whether he's in coverage or coming downhill in run support, he consistently finds ways to make an impact on the game. His instincts, ball skills, and ability to read the quarterback set him apart, and he's always around the action.   What stands out about Janthony is his confidence and physicality. He doesn't shy away from big moments and plays with an edge that sets the tone for the defense. With his athleticism and awareness, he has the tools to be a difference maker at the next level. Expect Janthony to be a name that continues to rise as the 2025 season unfolds.      Lewis may be a member of the Class of 2028, but he's already turning heads with his talent, work ethic, and maturity beyond his years. Whether it's in practice or scrimmages, Micah consistently flashes the kind of ability that demands attention. With sharp instincts, fluid athleticism, and a competitive edge, he's already making a strong case to see varsity reps.   Don't be surprised if Micah steps on the field for the Eagles this season. He's the kind of young prospect who doesn't just wait his turn he earns it. The future is bright, and that future might arrive sooner than expected.      Aaden is a defensive end with a chip on his shoulder and a clear mission: to elevate his game this season. Known for his relentless motor and tenacity off the edge, he consistently pressures quarterbacks and sets the tone in the trenches. His ability to use leverage and explosiveness allows him to disrupt plays in the backfield and make key stops.     DJ is a dynamic edge rusher who combines speed, power, and savvy to pressure opposing quarterbacks consistently. His relentless motor and ability to bend the edge make him a nightmare for offensive linemen. DJ's blend of quickness and strength allows him to win with both finesse moves and raw power.   His standout performances have earned him offers from major programs, including Georgia, Georgia State, and Michigan. With his proven ability to disrupt plays and create havoc in the backfield, DJ is poised for a breakout season as he continues to develop into one of the top edge defenders in the region.      Poe is a strong, physical presence on the defensive line who excels at controlling the line of scrimmage. With solid technique and a powerful initial punch, he consistently disrupts offensive plays and anchors the front defense. Poe's toughness and determination allow him to battle through blockers and make plays in both run defense and pass rush.   As he continues to refine his skills and gain experience, Poe is positioned to become a key force on the Eagles' defensive front this season.      Cortez is a powerful and aggressive defensive lineman who consistently brings intensity to the field. Known for his strength and ability to shed blocks, he plays with a high motor and physicality that disrupts opposing offenses. Cortez excels at clogging running lanes and applying pressure up front, making him a vital component of the Eagles' defensive front.   With continued development and experience, Cortez is set to elevate his impact and be a key contributor to the team's success this season.      Jordan Steven is a versatile and talented athlete who has caught the attention of multiple programs. With offers from Stephen F. Austin, Missouri State, UTSA, Bowling Green, and UTEP, Jordan's skill set and on-field production have made him a sought-after prospect.   Known for his work ethic and ability to make plays in key moments, Jordan brings a competitive edge and consistency that coaches value. Whether contributing on offense, defense, or special teams, he's proven to be a reliable and impactful player. Expect Jordan to continue building on his momentum and make an even bigger mark this season.      Paul is a hardworking and technically sound offensive lineman who consistently battles in the trenches. Known for his strong footwork and hand placement, he excels at creating running lanes and providing reliable pass protection. His toughness and determination make him a key part of the offensive front.   With continued growth and experience, Paul is positioned to be a steady and dependable presence on the Eagles' offensive line this season.      Jerbralon is a physical and technically sound offensive lineman who consistently demonstrates strong fundamentals on the field. His footwork and hand placement allow him to sustain blocks effectively, whether in the running game or pass protection. He shows a natural ability to read defensive alignments and adjust his blocking assignments, which helps the offense maintain rhythm and balance.   On game day, Jerbralon plays with toughness and determination, finishing blocks and driving defenders off the line. His presence in the trenches creates running lanes for the backs and gives his quarterback time to make plays. Coaches rely on him as a steady force who elevates the entire offensive line's performance. He is committed to New Mexico.      Lemarcus is an emerging talent at the quarterback position with all the tools to develop into a star. As a member of the Class of 2027, he's already shown poise, arm strength, and leadership beyond his years. Whether he's dropping dimes downfield or making smart decisions under pressure, Lemarcus plays with the confidence of a seasoned vet.   What separates him is his natural feel for the game he sees the field well, processes coverages quickly, and delivers the ball with timing and accuracy. With continued growth and experience, there's no doubt Lemarcus is on track to become one of the top quarterbacks in his class. By the time he graduates, expect his name to be mentioned among the elite.    With a blend of returning talent, rising stars, and proven leadership under Coach Claude Mathis, the DeSoto Eagles enter the 2025 season with high expectations. After finishing 11-3 in 2024, the standard has been set and this team is hungry for more. From explosive offensive weapons to a physical and fast defense, DeSoto has all the pieces to make another deep playoff run.   If the Eagles can stay healthy and continue building on last year's momentum, don't be surprised if they're playing deep into December and contending for another state title.

The DeSoto Eagles are entering the 2025 season with high expectations after an impressive 11-3 overall record and a 6-1 district run in 2024. Under the leadership of veteran head coach Claude Mathis, the Eagles have reloaded with talent and are focused on taking the next step. With a strong returning core and a culture built on discipline, speed, and toughness, DeSoto is aiming to not only make another deep playoff push but to finish the job and bring home a state title. Here are the key players to be on the look out for :