Watchlist to Ranked: Northern California 2028 Prospects

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">In depth analysis of the Northern California 2028 prospects improving their stock moving from the watchlist to the PRZ state player rankings.</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Lawson is a versatile DB/WR that brings two way value with athleticism, instincts, and ball skills that translate on both side of the ball. Natural ball skills pop on film, he tracks the football well and finishes plays at the catch point. Doesn't possesses the biggest frame but has plus leaping ability and timing to go up and compete at the high point. Flashes fluid movement skill. Smooth hips and quick feet give him good change of direction to mirror routes or create separation. Top end speed, gives him the ability to run with receivers vertically in coverage or stretch the field as a WR. Excellent technique and footwork in coverage to maintain leverage and stay in phase to all areas of the field. Played the majority of the year at CB but has the positional flexibility and wide skillset to be recruited on either side of the ball. Holds two offers from Nevada and Sacramento State so far.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/IsraelLaws58943/status/1987771777452511477 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">Owolabi offers great long term upside as an athletic 6'6” 265 lb. OT with a projectable frame as he continues to add mass. Ideal length and wingspan using natural reach to widen rushing lanes and keep defenders off his chest. Light on his feet, he flashes excellent movement skills, bend, and initial quickness. Athleticism shows in his ability to execute reach blocks, work to the second level, or get out in front of perimeter plays. Brings heavy force at the POA initiating contact with a wide base, good leg drive, and active hands. Grip strength and hand usage allows him to control opponents and move them where he wants. Does a good job establishing positional leverage early and sustaining to spring runners into the second level. No offers yet but continues to add good weight and is a major D1 prospect.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/Adenowolabi11/status/1989838457636798585 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">Bess recently transferred out of Pinole Valley and into Inderkum to play out his junior season where he brings an explosive skillset as a ball carrier, returner, and DB. 5'10” 175 lbs. he's a weaving RB that thrives in traffic using vision, balance, and subtle movement to slice though defenses. Flashes great spatial awareness to feel defenders around him and navigate tight lanes naturally. Plus lateral agility, he makes hard cuts with quick controlled side to side movement while maintaining his speed. Like his creativity to find his own lane and adjust on the fly as he reads defensive flow. Holds an offer from Sacramento State and has plenty of upside and potential to build on.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">East possesses a diverse skillset that can impact the game in all three phases from multiple positions but was a 1,000 yard rusher as a sophomore with 12 touchdowns on 188 carries. 5'10” 180 lbs. he's an attacking ball carrier that puts constant pressure on the defense to be gap sound. Flashes a decisive running style making quick reads and getting north-south without hesitation or wasted movement. Uses high level vision and instincts to read his blocks and locate a running lane while running full speed. He's slippery in the open field but is a physical runner between the tackles and at the first level. Shows he can lower his shoulder, initiate contact, and fight through contact with good leg drive and balance. One to watch as he continues to develop.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/DarienEast/status/1969989987740635568 </div></figure>