Prep Redzone Spotlight: Pennsylvania’s Lockdown Secondary

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Part 1: Air Raid Stoppers: PA's Premier Defensive Backs</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["489184"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-699908b56fc2f"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='489184' first='Gabriel' last='Jenkins'] of Imani Christian Academy is a long, athletic defensive back in the 2027 class who brings impressive size and upside to the secondary at 6'2”, 180 pounds. His length immediately stands out on the perimeter, allowing him to disrupt passing lanes and challenge receivers at the catch point. Jenkins shows fluid hips for his frame and transitions well when flipping from backpedal to sprint, which is critical for a taller defensive back. He demonstrates strong awareness in zone coverage, keeping his eyes active while reading the quarterback and anticipating throws. In man coverage, he uses his reach effectively to reroute receivers and shrink throwing windows. Jenkins is also a physical presence in run support, showing willingness to come downhill and finish plays in space. His frame suggests continued physical development, which could elevate both his press coverage strength and tackling consistency. With his size, instincts, and developmental ceiling, Jenkins projects as a defensive back with clear next-level potential.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:html --> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="qme" dir="ltr">🔒 <a href="https://t.co/Zmb4I7xwy9">pic.twitter.com/Zmb4I7xwy9</a></p>&mdash; [player_tooltip player_id='489184' first='Gabriel' last='Jenkins'] (@gabealldy) <a href="https://twitter.com/gabealldy/status/1834346848678514915?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2024</a></blockquote> <!-- /wp:html --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["665946"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-699908b56fcd2"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='665946' first='Brandon' last='Ross'] of St. Joseph's Preparatory School is a polished 2027 cornerback with the physical tools and competitive edge to thrive in a high-level secondary. At 6'0”, 180 pounds, Ross brings a strong, well-balanced frame that allows him to match up effectively against bigger receivers on the outside. He shows smooth footwork in his backpedal and maintains discipline with his technique, rarely overcommitting on double moves. Ross demonstrates the ability to play both press and off coverage, using quick hands at the line and controlled patience when giving cushion. His recovery speed stands out when receivers attempt to stack vertically, and he competes hard at the catch point. In zone concepts, he displays strong awareness and communicates well within the secondary. Ross is also willing in run support, showing toughness when coming downhill to secure tackles. Competing in a nationally respected program environment, he continues to sharpen his skill set and profiles as a defensive back with legitimate college-level upside.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:html --> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Junior year full season film!<a href="https://twitter.com/T_Roken?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@T_Roken</a> <a href="https://t.co/Qnfr9Jm3Ib">https://t.co/Qnfr9Jm3Ib</a> <a href="https://t.co/tqqr2r2e9T">pic.twitter.com/tqqr2r2e9T</a></p>&mdash; [player_tooltip player_id='665946' first='Brandon' last='Ross'] (@Brandon_Ross1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Brandon_Ross1/status/2001414452080463884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <!-- /wp:html --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["522493"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-699908b56fd4f"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='522493' first='Elijah' last='Sherman'] of Cumberland Valley High School is an instinctive 2027 defensive back who brings physicality and football IQ to the secondary. At 6'0”, 180 pounds, Sherman has a solid frame that allows him to match up well in coverage while also holding up in run support. He does an excellent job reading offensive routes, showing patience in zone and reacting quickly once the quarterback commits. His anticipation allows him to break on the ball with confidence and close space in a hurry. Sherman thrives when he can fly downhill, delivering aggressive, tone-setting hits on receivers after the catch. He plays with controlled aggression, rarely taking poor angles when coming forward to make a play. In coverage, he stays balanced in his backpedal and transitions efficiently out of his breaks. With his instincts and physical edge, Sherman projects as a defensive back who can impact the game both in coverage and as a force in the open field.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:html --> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/ehCn3Gu8kC">pic.twitter.com/ehCn3Gu8kC</a></p>&mdash; [player_tooltip player_id='522493' first='Elijah' last='Sherman'] (@ElijahSher19) <a href="https://twitter.com/ElijahSher19/status/2012644743344263296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <!-- /wp:html --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Mattias Surgeon","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2027","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"6'2u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"200","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2495","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Central York","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-699926c8862f3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='1258062' first='Matthias' last='Sergeon'] of Central York High School is a physically imposing 2027 cornerback who immediately stands out with his 6'2”, 205-pound frame. His size and strength give him a clear advantage in press coverage, where he can disrupt timing and reroute receivers at the line of scrimmage. Sergeon plays with confidence on the outside and does not shy away from physical matchups against bigger wideouts. He shows good body control when tracking the football and competes aggressively at the catch point. For a bigger defensive back, he moves well laterally and maintains balance in his transitions. Sergeon also brings value in run support, using his strength to shed blocks and finish tackles with authority. His frame suggests versatility, with the potential to match up at corner or even slide into a hybrid role depending on scheme. With continued refinement in technique and coverage consistency, Sergeon has the tools to develop into a high-level defensive prospect in the 2027 class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:html --> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Delaware Valley Preview<a href="https://t.co/gPQDCRQlf0">https://t.co/gPQDCRQlf0</a></p>&mdash; [player_tooltip player_id='1258062' first='Matthias' last='Sergeon'] (@msergeon7) <a href="https://twitter.com/msergeon7/status/1965453516685902204?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <!-- /wp:html --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["671843"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-699926c886370"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Zachary Gleason of Central Catholic High School is a versatile 2027 prospect who brings value on both sides of the ball, particularly as a competitive cornerback in the secondary. At 5'11”, 165 pounds, Gleason shows a lean, athletic frame with room to continue developing physically. His experience at wide receiver translates well to defensive back, as he tracks the ball naturally and anticipates route concepts. In coverage, he displays quick feet and fluid hips, allowing him to mirror receivers effectively in space. He competes hard at the catch point and understands how to position himself to disrupt passing lanes. Gleason's offensive background also gives him an edge in reading stems and recognizing timing patterns. He shows willingness in run support and plays with noticeable effort snap after snap. With continued strength development and refinement in technique, Gleason projects as a well-rounded defensive back with strong upside in the 2027 class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:html --> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨FULL JUNIOR YR 🚨<br><br>Full highlights: <a href="https://t.co/FJefgtypDy">https://t.co/FJefgtypDy</a> (7min) <br><br>MOST DOMINANT CB IN PA! <br><br>3 INT(1 pick 6)| 10 PBU's| 45 tackles<br>5 TFLs| 1 FF| <br><br>3⭐️DB 6'0 170 <br>1st team all conference DB <br>2xWPIAL CHAMPS 💍<br>PIAA 6a state runner ups <a href="https://twitter.com/wpialsportsnews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wpialsportsnews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PCC_FOOTBALL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PCC_FOOTBALL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/210ths?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@210ths</a> <a href="https://t.co/U8JihAMSaD">pic.twitter.com/U8JihAMSaD</a></p>&mdash; Zachary Gleason JR 3⭐️ (@ZacharyGleason_) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZacharyGleason_/status/1999907124755771522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <!-- /wp:html --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["914069"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-699926c8863df"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='914069' first='Jelane' last='Richardson'] is a long, athletic defensive back in the 2027 class who brings versatility to the secondary at both cornerback and free safety. At 6'1”, 175 pounds, he possesses the ideal length to disrupt passing lanes and contest throws at the catch point. Richardson shows fluid hips and balanced footwork in coverage, allowing him to transition smoothly when matching routes downfield. His range stands out at free safety, where he reads the quarterback well and closes ground quickly. At corner, he uses his size effectively in press situations while maintaining patience in off coverage. He demonstrates strong ball skills and times his breaks with confidence when driving on underneath routes. Richardson is also willing in run support, taking smart angles and wrapping up consistently in space. With his length, instincts, and positional flexibility, he projects as a dynamic defensive back with clear next-level upside in the 2027 class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:html --> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">2027 DB Full Junior Season Highlights !!!<br> <br>Full Highlight 🎥 : <a href="https://t.co/kty7CTGkbF">https://t.co/kty7CTGkbF</a><br> <br>50 Total Tackles (30 Solo) | 11 Pass Breakup's | 8 Interceptions |<br><br>1ST TEAM ALL CATHOLIC - DB🥇<br>3A PCL CHAMPIONS 🏆<br>CITY CHAMPIONS🏆<br>Best DB in PA ! <br>Most dominant and consistent DB in PA!… <a href="https://t.co/HIwwmCD87c">pic.twitter.com/HIwwmCD87c</a></p>&mdash; [player_tooltip player_id='914069' first='Jelane' last='Richardson'] (@JRichardson2027) <a href="https://twitter.com/JRichardson2027/status/1992711086093767088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <!-- /wp:html --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->