2027 Rankings: Defensive Back Stock Risers/New Names

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>With the Prep Redzone Illinois 2027 Rankings being expanded to 250 prospects there are a ton of new names that have emerged along with prospects that elevated their stock.&nbsp; Here we look at those prospects in&nbsp;<strong>2027 Rankings: Defensive Backs Risers/New Names</strong>!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1791871' first='Jackson' last='Cook'] (Harlem)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Cook is a 6'0" defensive back that had 8 interceptions this past year.&nbsp; What might even be more impressive is he took for of them back for house calls.&nbsp; One on one in endzone he intercepted and went 100+. Cuts right in front of pass catcher then goes the other way for 6.&nbsp; High points as centerfielder then goes for a touchdown. Made read on errant slant pass for score.&nbsp; Not only makes the pick, but does damage after.&nbsp; Fluid and athletic corner that can also play some free safety. Goes and gets the ball.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1406282' first='Kolby' last='Daniels'] (Brother Rice)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Daniels stands at 5'10" 150 pounds from Brother Rice.&nbsp; Really like the smooth footwork and his ability to cover downfield.&nbsp; Doesn't get faked out by double moves.&nbsp; Makes plays on the ball for interceptions and is an outstanding tackler in run support.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1346038' first='Jordan' last='Williams'] (Belleville East)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Williams is a 5'10" safety that high points the ball on the back end.&nbsp; Great overall feel as a centerfielder. Hard hitter that cuts on the ball and separates it from the wide receiver.&nbsp; Sound tackler that flies to the ball coming downhill laying the hammer.&nbsp; Also brings potential as a kick returner.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1395110' first='Beckett' last='Dovel'] (Grayslake North)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As a sophomore this 6'0" 160 pound defender had 109 tackles, 1 interception, 3 pass break ups, and 1 forced fumble.&nbsp; Strong safety that can slide down and play near the line when needed.&nbsp; Love how he takes great angles to the ball.&nbsp; Technically sound player. Drives on the ball.&nbsp; Gets interceptions downfield in the open field covering deep.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1571670' first='Charlie' last='Palmer'] (Lincoln Way East)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Palmer is a 6'0" 180 pound slot corner that brings physicality and good closing speed.&nbsp; Wraps up as a tackler and contributes on special teams.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1631457' first='Rontez' last='Smith'] (Bradley Bourbonnais)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Smith is a 5'7" 145 pound defensive back that had 3 interceptions, 5 PBUs, and 55 tackles as a sophomore.&nbsp; Like what we see on tape as he breaks really hard on the ball exploding out of his backpedal. Covers a lot of ground on the backend at either corner or free safety. Good instincts and is a solid tackler.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->