The Next Wave: Sophomore Defensive Linemen Breaking Out in IL

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Jacob Duncan – DE, Dupo</strong><br>Duncan was one of the most productive sophomore edge rushers in the state this season, finishing with 10 sacks. He consistently won with quickness off the ball and a strong understanding of leverage, creating problems for tackles who struggled to anchor against him. His ability to disrupt plays and finish in the backfield shows a young defender already ahead of the curve technically.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Noah Crandall – DL, Harlem</strong><br>Crandall put together a breakout sophomore year at Harlem, also reaching 10 sacks. He's a versatile, sturdy defensive lineman who can line up inside or on the edge, using his strength to collapse pockets and reset the line of scrimmage. His relentless motor stands out on film—he never stops working—and that effort consistently turned into pressure and negative plays.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Jeremiah Lee – DL, Richards</strong><br>Lee is one of the most explosive young interior defenders in Illinois. Despite playing only eight games, he recorded 8 sacks and consistently showed the ability to win off the snap. His first-step quickness and gap-shooting ability are advanced for his age. When Richards needed a spark, Lee delivered by disrupting run schemes and blowing up protections.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1335224' first='Caleb' last='Brown'] – DE, East St. Louis</strong><br>Brown stepped into a loaded Flyers defense and made an immediate impact as a sophomore, collecting 8 sacks. His length, speed, and natural pass-rush feel allowed him to make plays against some of the toughest competition in the state. Brown closes space quickly and finishes plays with authority, giving him the tools of a future high-level edge prospect.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Johnny Louise – DE, Montini Catholic </strong><br>Louise had a strong sophomore season with 7 sacks, showcasing size and athletic flexibility off the edge. He can win inside or outside with effort and drive, and his frame projects extremely well as he continues to grow. With added strength and hand refinement, Louise is poised for a significant junior-season jump.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Bennett Becker – DE, Breese Central</strong><br>Becker emerged as a standout in Southern Illinois, producing 6 sacks as a sophomore. He shows balance, strong hands, and efficient pursuit to the football. His strength at the point of attack stands out for his age, and with continued development, Becker has the potential to become one of the top small-school defensive linemen in the state.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->