Evaluating 6 Kalamazoo Area Prospects

Over the last few years, some of the best under-the-radar prospects have come from Kalamazoo and the surrounding area. This football resurgence isn't surprising, but is absolutely a noticeable trend. Below are a few prospects in that area that you cannot miss the boat on this time around.    I haven't checked in on Mayes in awhile, and boy am I glad I did. He had developed into a more well rounded back, and has put in a ton of work. His specialty is absolutely between the tackles, as he's able to run downhill behind his pads and break through arm tackles. He's a reliable force on 3rd down and goal line situations. His strong lower half allows him to keep his legs churning through contact. He has good vision that allows him to make quick, decisive cuts and break into the open field. His body of work in 2025 was impressive, and I am looking forward to what he is able to put together in 2026.     [player_tooltip player_id='1688773' first='Lucas' last='Pinder'] was a powerful force for Portage Northern last season. He has some highlights offensively as he was an important piece blocking for the run game. He brought some absolutely thunderous blocks and was able to spring the ball carrier for big yardage. Defensively though, is where I see his game translating to the next level. He has a strong and powerful lower body, but he's still explosive and athletic enough to win with speed or power. He does a great job of swiping hands off of him and hitting slower tackles with a great burst of speed. Pinder is a sure tackler who doesn't let go once he gets his hands on the ball carrier. Against some of the top competition on their scheduled, Lucas elevated his game and was able to pick teams apart.     Bobby is a kid that I am confident will translate well to the varsity level. Projecting as an interior defensive lineman, Dixon plays incredibly physical. He controls and maintains gaps with ease, thanks to strong legs and the ability to shed blocks. He fires off low and gives offensive linemen fits trying to wedge him out of the hole. Even on traps and double teams, he stands his ground and creates a ton of chaos at the point of attack. Be on the looking for Dixon when he gets to varsity, as he has the ceiling to be a major problem.     Brock is starting to become an extremely hot commodity across the D2 ranks here in Michigan. Nearly all of the GLIAC has shown interest in the small-school prospect, and he has even grabbed an offer from Davenport recently. He's incredibly physical, firing off low and fast and packing a serious punch. He moves well in the open space, which is likely the result of playing in the 8-player division and having to execute some more open field blocks. Make no mistake about it, regardless of division, Brock absolutely has what it takes to play at the next level.     Easton is an under the radar guy with a ton to offer. All Conference, All Region and All State for the Vicksburg QB shows just how solid he is. When you flip on the tape, you see a really impressive player. He passes the eye test at 6'3 with a strong frame, with a clean and concise throwing motion. He pushes the ball downfield with ease, hitting posts and go routes with a flick of the wrist. He has a number of RPO reps where he is able to make a quick decision and absolutely rip the ball into a window. The football IQ and pure talent make him an intriguing prospect that could pay off massively for anyone that gives him a shot.     If you're looking to add a nasty defensive lineman to your trenches, look no further than Battle Creek Central's [player_tooltip player_id='1982397' first='Jordan' last='Roe']. He's absolutely one of the most aggressive 2028s I have watched so far. He fires off quickly, bullies offensive linemen and is able to shed blocks quickly to get into the backfield. He has strong arms allowing him to hold defensive linemen out away from his chest, which helps him shed and make plays. His competitive nature brings a type of intensity that anyone would love to add to their defensive line unit. Super excited to see what's next in his development!

Over the last few years, some of the best under-the-radar prospects have come from Kalamazoo and the surrounding area. This football resurgence isn't surprising, but is absolutely a noticeable trend. Below are a few prospects in that area that you cannot miss the boat on this time around.