Super 75 Recap: Defensive Backs

The defensive backs group at Super 75 did not disappoint. We had an even split between safeties and corners, which speaks to the depth and balance of talent on display. Two of the safeties stood out during the weightlifting challenge, each putting up 30+ reps—an impressive feat that turned heads. From coverage skills to physicality, this group brought energy, toughness, and athleticism across the board. A strong showing all around from a very competitive unit.    Seth Stokes may be young, but he's more than ready to make a real impact for the Golden Bulls this season. The incoming freshman has turned heads all offseason, consistently making plays in 7-on-7s and other team activities. His effort and instincts have put him in strong contention to earn a starting role at E.E. Smith — a rare feat for a freshman. Stokes is quickly proving that age is just a number when talent and work ethic are on full display.     Xavier Powell is a highlight machine waiting to happen. The dynamic two-sport star brings explosiveness and excitement every time he steps on the field. While he's known for his defensive playmaking, Powell will also see time on the offensive side of the ball this season, where his speed and athleticism can shine even more. Expect big plays in all phases of the game from one of the most electric athletes in the area.     Nick Williams, a senior at E.E. Smith, is the definition of a true ATH. While his primary position is defensive back/safety, Williams will line up all over the field this season — linebacker, receiver, running back, and even quarterback. His versatility and football IQ make him a weapon on both sides of the ball. Williams carries the utmost confidence in both his game and his Golden Bulls squad, and he's ready to lead by example in what could be a breakout season.     Matheus Santos plays with sharp instincts and a fearless edge that sets him apart. The Jack Britt junior lines up at strong safety and brings both physicality and intelligence to the defense. Whether it's stepping up in run support or making plays in coverage, Santos is always around the ball. Expect him to be a key contributor to Jack Britt's success this season as he continues to grow into a leadership role on the back end.     Ja'Quay Locke is easily one of the most explosive defensive backs in the state. The senior out of Hoggard High School recently picked up an offer from UNC Pembroke after showcasing his elite speed and playmaking ability. He clocked an impressive 4.4 forty at Wingate, proving he has next-level athleticism. With his instincts, speed, and ability to make game-changing plays, Locke is poised for a big season—and more offers are sure to follow     Jaihyon Elliot is another highly versatile defensive back for the Golden Bulls. Now a senior at E.E. Smith, Elliot has experience at both safety and corner, showcasing his adaptability and football IQ. He's also strong and physical enough to step into a linebacker role when needed. Known for being a sure tackler and bringing high energy to every snap, Elliot plays with toughness, passion, and leadership—qualities that will be key to the Golden Bulls' defense this season     Jaydon Johnson has impressive size for a sophomore and carries himself with the confidence of a seasoned veteran. The cornerback from New Hanover has set a bold goal for the year: not to give up a single score all season. With his physical tools, mindset, and determination, Johnson is on a mission to make a name for himself and establish his place as one of the top young defensive backs in the state.     Ra'Sean Williams, a junior from Hoggard High School, is a true shutdown corner with a big game and even bigger expectations. Known for his speed and elite technique, Williams consistently locks down his side of the field. This season, he has his sights set on becoming the conference player of the year at cornerback. With his work ethic and natural ability, don't be surprised if he makes that goal a reality     [player_tooltip player_id='1685581' first='Tariq' last='Leggett'] is one of the most impressive athletes in the state, regardless of position. The defensive back from Fairmont is a true physical specimen — standing at 6'3", nearly 200 pounds, and blazing with 4.4 speed. His film speaks for itself, showcasing elite ability in coverage, tackling, and closing speed. Whether it's locking down receivers or making plays in space, Leggett is dominant at every turn. He's a rare talent with all the tools to play at the next level and beyond.     [player_tooltip player_id='1649812' first='Jesse' last='Bettis'], a senior defensive back from Wakefield, is locked in and ready to lead his team on a deep playoff run. With his experience, leadership, and playmaking ability, Bettis is the heartbeat of the Wakefield secondary. As he enters his final high school season, he's determined to leave it all on the field and help push his team to new heights. Expect a big year from the veteran DB.     Nirah Harrington is an up-and-coming defensive back to watch at Wakefield. The sophomore already shows veteran-like instincts, with the speed to cover slot receivers and running backs, and the toughness to be a sure tackler in space. Harrington's versatility and reliability will make him a key contributor to Wakefield's defense this season. As he continues to develop, don't be surprised if he becomes one of the breakout stars in the area     Ka'Dorien Wallace is a true shutdown corner out of Laney High School. The junior brings a bit of flash to his game, but every bit of it is backed up by elite technique and top-end speed. Wallace has the ability to blanket any receiver he lines up against, staying stride for stride and making it tough for quarterbacks to test his side. Confident, competitive, and consistent—Wallace is one of the premier corners to watch this season.     [player_tooltip player_id='887866' first='Domonic' last='Williams Jr']., rated as the No. 4 defensive back in the state for the Class of 2028, is ready to take that next step and step fully into the spotlight. The Jacksonville sophomore already has the tools — size, speed, and instincts — to be special, and now he's focused on turning potential into production. With a strong offseason behind him and high expectations ahead, Williams is aiming to prove why he's one of the top young defenders in the state. Don't be surprised if he becomes a household name by season's end.     Dwight Drew Jr. has been a key piece of Seventy-First's championship success over the past two seasons. Now a senior, he's aiming to lead the Falcons on yet another title run. A steady and reliable presence in the secondary, Drew has been a cornerstone for the program—bringing leadership, toughness, and a winning mentality. With his experience and drive, expect him to be one of the main forces behind Seventy-First's pursuit of another championship.     Tymere “Juice” Diaz-Baker, a junior at Seventy-First, is stepping into his first season as a full-time varsity athlete—but you wouldn't know it by the way he prepares. Diaz-Baker has attacked the offseason like a seasoned veteran, sharpening his technique and honing his athleticism. While this may be his first year in a full-time varsity role, his skill set and work ethic will quickly make his presence felt. Expect “Juice” to make a smooth transition and turn heads this season.     [player_tooltip player_id='1034840' first='Jaleel' last='Parker'], a Liberty commit, is one of the top defensive backs in North Carolina. Ranked as a Top 75 prospect in the state and the No. 11 DB by Prep Red Zone, the Jack Britt safety has all the tools to dominate. At 5'11”, 190 pounds, and running a consistent 4.4 forty, Parker brings a rare mix of speed, strength, and explosiveness to the field. He's a playmaker on the back end who can cover ground quickly and deliver big-time hits—expect a huge senior season from the Future Flame.     [player_tooltip player_id='1579223' first='Tyler' last='Nelson'] from Marion, SC is on a mission to bounce back after a challenging freshman season. Still just an underclassman, Nelson is part of a young core looking to grow and make noise this year. Primarily a cornerback, he's shown flashes of his potential and is poised to put it all together. With a renewed mindset and a hunger to prove himself, expect Nelson to shine as one of the rising talents in the region.     Josh Ferrell was the biggest surprise among the defensive backs at the Super 75. At 6'1”, he has great size for a safety—bigger and stronger than he initially looks. Ferrell made his presence felt by winning the DB weightlifting challenge, showcasing his strength and work ethic. His physicality and toughness stood out, and he proved he's more than ready to compete at a high level. Ferrell is definitely a name to keep an eye on moving forward.

The defensive backs group at Super 75 did not disappoint. We had an even split between safeties and corners, which speaks to the depth and balance of talent on display. Two of the safeties stood out during the weightlifting challenge, each putting up 30+ reps—an impressive feat that turned heads. From coverage skills to physicality, this group brought energy, toughness, and athleticism across the board. A strong showing all around from a very competitive unit.