Rising Trench Warriors: LA City Section Top D-Linemen

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In the trenches of Los Angeles high school football, a new wave of disruptive defensive linemen is beginning to emerge. From the LA city section watchlist, we have explosive sophomores already earning All-City honors to physical juniors with early college interest, this group of young trench warriors is showcasing the size, motor, and production that college coaches crave. Prep Red Zone takes a closer look at several of the Southland's most promising defensive line prospects — breaking down their film, strengths, areas for growth, and long-term potential as they prepare to make their mark at the next level.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2124192"],"_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-69d5db818eee0"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">•&nbsp;<strong>What you do well</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Kid jumps off the tape with an elite first-step get-off and twitchy explosiveness that's rare for a sophomore. You're a natural speed-to-power edge rusher—quick hands, violent dip-and-rip through the outside shoulder, and the ankle/hip flexibility to bend the arc and flatten without losing speed. You track the QB's eyes, close with purpose, and finish. Production backs it up: 16 sacks, 25 TFL, 21 QB hurries, 3 forced fumbles, and 95 total tackles (50 solo) in 14 games as a sophomore: high-motor, relentless pursuit to the ball carrier on the backside. You set a firm edge in the run game when you want to, and your 4.0 GPA plus football IQ shows up in how you diagnose plays pre-snap. This is a kid who converts pressure into production every week.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>Changes that would take you to the next level:</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Frame is still lean at 185 lbs—you're a true edge bender right now, but you're not yet a power player who can stack and shed big offensive tackles or dominate vs. the run when they scheme you down. Pad level and anchor strength will improve once you add 15–20 good pounds of functional mass in a college weight program. Coverage is still a work in progress (you've flashed some drop ability on the edge but it's not a strength yet). Raw hand usage is good but it can get a little wide at times against veteran OTs who have seen speed rushers before.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>If / how you project to help a team win</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Sula projects as a high-upside college edge/OLB who can be a disruptive force in the pass game from day one and grow into a complete three-down player. His combination of length, bend, closing speed, and relentless motor gives him the tools to be a sack artist and turnover creator at the next level—exactly the kind of guy that tilts games by forcing negative plays and getting the ball back for the offense. With continued physical development and refinement in run defense and coverage, he has the ceiling to be a starting edge for a Power conference program. Right now he's already a difference-maker for Carson's defense and a kid whose best football is still way ahead of him.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Bottom line:</strong> Explosive, productive sophomore edge with the measurables and film to warrant early college interest. Keep feeding him reps and watch the sack total climb. Worth monitoring closely in the 2026 cycle.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/CoachJohnson21_/status/2013825942360142316?s=20","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/CoachJohnson21_/status/2013825942360142316?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2156573"],"_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-69d5db818ef5b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">•&nbsp;<strong>What you do well</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Cox jumps off the tape as a thick, physical defensive lineman who plays with excellent leverage, violent hands, and a strong punch at the point of attack. You shoot gaps with a quick first step for your size, disrupt running lanes, and create consistent pressure up the middle or off the edge. High-motor kid who pursues laterally, sheds blockers cleanly, and finishes — 48 tackles, 11 TFL, and 6 sacks as a junior (including 37 tackles and 11 TFL in just 8 games on the reel). Strong anchor in the run game, occupies double teams, and frees up linebackers. Versatile enough to slide inside as a 3-tech or play 5-tech/edge depending on the front. Disciplined technique and a nasty attitude make you a reliable producer week in and week out.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>Changes that would take you to the next level:</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Pad level can rise against quality offensive lines, letting bigger blockers ride you up and wash you out of the play. The pass-rush toolbox is still developing beyond the initial bull rush and quickness — needs more counter moves, rip/swim combos, and finesse to counter veteran interior linemen. Lateral range and sideline-to-sideline pursuit are solid but not elite yet. Frame is already thick at 265, but you'll need to add functional mass/strength in a college program to dominate against Power-level size on the interior.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>If / how you project to help a team win</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Cox projects as a versatile, high-motor defensive lineman who can be a gap-shooting disruptor in a 4-3 or 3-4 scheme right away. His blend of size, leverage, explosiveness, and proven production lets him eat blocks, collapse pockets, and create negative plays that tilt the field — exactly the kind of interior/edge presence that wears down offensive lines over four quarters and makes the entire defense better. With continued refinement in technique and strength, he has the ceiling to develop into a starter who controls the line of scrimmage and generates consistent pressure. Recent transfer to Carson gives him a bigger platform and tougher competition to showcase that upside.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Bottom line:</strong> Athletic, productive junior DT/DE with the frame, physicality, and film to draw growing college interest (including UCLA camp buzz). Senior season at Carson should elevate his profile — a guy whose best football is still ahead of him and who fits any program looking for a tough, scheme-versatile defensive lineman. Keep an eye on him in the 2027 cycle.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/JaylenCox15/status/2039853171066142918?s=20","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/JaylenCox15/status/2039853171066142918?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1319845"],"_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-69d5db818efac"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">•&nbsp;<strong>What you do well</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Butler is a thick, physical defensive lineman who plays with outstanding leverage, violent hands, and a nonstop motor that wears down blockers. You shoot gaps with quickness for your size, stack and shed effectively, and create consistent disruption in the backfield — 50 total tackles and 3 sacks in 10 games (plus additional TFL production across recent seasons). Strong anchor in the run game, you occupy double teams and free up linebackers while still making plays yourself. Versatile enough to play 0-tech, 3-tech, or slide outside to DE, and your experience at center on offense shows up in your football IQ and ability to mirror blocks—high-effort kid who chases to the sideline and finishes with attitude every snap.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>Changes that would take you to the next level:</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Pad level can rise against lengthier offensive tackles who get their hands inside first, allowing them to ride you up and wash you out of lanes at times. Pass-rush toolbox is solid with power and initial quickness but still expanding — needs more developed counters, rip/swim combos, and finesse moves to counter veteran interior linemen who've seen your power before. Lateral range and sideline-to-sideline pursuit are good but not elite yet. Frame is already stout, but you'll keep adding functional mass and explosion in a college weight room to dominate Power-level size consistently.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>If / how you project to help a team win</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Butler projects as a scheme-versatile, high-motor defensive tackle/edge who can anchor the interior, clog running lanes, collapse pockets, and generate negative plays that tilt the field. His blend of size, strength, leverage, and relentless effort makes him exactly the kind of trench warrior who wears down offensive lines over four quarters, demands extra attention, and creates opportunities for the entire defense. With continued refinement in technique and added strength, he has clear starter upside in a Power conference front and the makeup to be a tone-setting, disruptive presence who helps teams control the line of scrimmage and win in the trenches.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Bottom line:</strong> Athletic, productive 2027 DT/DE with prototypical size, early college offers, and the film to keep climbing recruiting boards. Two-way toughness and motor stand out — a guy whose best football is still ahead of him and who fits any program looking for a physical, high-character interior lineman. Senior season at Hamilton will be big. Keep watching.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/Mr_MicahB22/status/2041717419400687784?s=20","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/Mr_MicahB22/status/2041717419400687784?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1197254"],"_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-69d5db818eff9"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">•&nbsp;<strong>What you do well</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Galloway pops on film as a twitchy, high-motor edge defender who explodes off the ball with a quick first step and violent, active hands. You win with speed-to-power rush moves, long-arm extension, and the bend/flexibility to turn the corner and flatten to the QB. Stout at the point of attack in the run game—you set a firm edge, shed blockers cleanly, and pursue sideline-to-sideline with relentless effort. Productive tackler who's around the football (33 tackles, 3.5 sacks through recent action) and creates negative plays. Versatile two-way athlete who also lines up at TE and OLB, showing good football IQ, play recognition, and the ability to contribute in multiple roles. Pad level stays low and you play with a nasty, competitive attitude every snap.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>Changes that would take you to the next level:</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Pass-rush toolbox is still growing beyond the initial burst and power—you'll need to add more counters, rip/swim combos, and finesse when veteran offensive tackles stall your first move. Frame is athletic and well-put-together at 220 lbs, but you'll benefit from adding 15–20 lbs of functional mass/strength in a college program to better anchor vs. double teams and dominate Power-level size. Coverage reps as an OLB/edge are functional but not yet a featured strength on tape.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>If / how you project to help a team win</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Galloway projects as a disruptive, scheme-versatile edge/OLB who can pressure the quarterback, set the edge in the run game, and make plays all over the field. His combination of explosiveness, physicality, motor, and two-way versatility creates negative plays, collapses pockets, and wears down offensive lines over four quarters—the exact kind of high-effort front-seven player that tilts games, forces turnovers, and elevates the entire defense. With continued physical development and refinement of his rush arsenal, he has clear starter upside and the makeup to be a tone-setter who helps teams win in the trenches.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Bottom line:</strong> Athletic, productive 2027 edge/athlete with FBS interest (Fresno State offer) and the film to keep climbing boards. High-motor two-way player whose best football is still way ahead of him. Senior season at Banning should be a big one—definitely a name to watch in the 2027 cycle.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/Kody34_/status/1920168702189973709?s=20","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/Kody34_/status/1920168702189973709?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- /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":"Kenneth Webb","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2028","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'11u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"255","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2406","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"King Drew","_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-69d5db818f0b3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">•&nbsp;<strong>What you do well</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Webb jumps off the tape as a compact, thick-bodied interior lineman who plays with outstanding leverage, sudden first-step quickness, and a nonstop motor that wears down blockers all game long. You shoot gaps with explosion for your size, stack and shed violently, and create consistent disruption — 62 tackles and 9 sacks as a sophomore in 10+ varsity games. Strong anchor at the point of attack in the run game; you occupy double teams, clog lanes, and free up linebackers while still making plays yourself. Two-way toughness shows up on the offensive line too — football IQ, mirror ability, and technique are pluses. High-effort kid who pursues laterally, finishes with attitude, and earns Player of the Game nods week after week.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>Changes that would take you to the next level:</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Shorter stature and arm length mean you have to win with leverage and burst rather than length — taller offensive linemen can sometimes get hands inside and ride you up if your pad level slips. Pass-rush toolbox is still developing beyond the initial quickness and power bull rush; needs more counter moves, rip/swim combos, and finesse to counter veteran interior linemen who've seen your style before. Lateral range and sideline-to-sideline pursuit are solid but will improve with continued strength and conditioning.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>If / how you project to help a team win</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Webb projects as a scheme-versatile, high-motor defensive tackle who can anchor the interior, collapse pockets, and generate negative plays that tilt the field. His blend of compact power, athleticism, leverage, and relentless effort makes him exactly the kind of trench warrior who wears down offensive lines over four quarters, demands extra attention, and creates opportunities for the entire defense. With continued physical development (adding functional mass/explosion) and refinement in technique, he has clear starter upside in a Power conference front and the makeup to be a tone-setting, disruptive presence who helps teams control the line of scrimmage and win in the trenches.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Bottom line:</strong> Stocky, productive sophomore DT with proven varsity production (62 tackles/9 sacks), great leverage, and the motor to be a fast riser in the 2028 recruiting class. Two-way toughness and rare athleticism for his build stand out — a guy whose best football is still way ahead of him. Keep an eye on King Drew's interior presence.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/KLW3BB/status/2015238133437338064?s=20","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"twitter","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/KLW3BB/status/2015238133437338064?s=20 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- /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":"Kaylen Capers","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2028","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"6'0u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"204","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2411","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"San Pedro","_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-69d5db818f151"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">•&nbsp;<strong>What you do well</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Capers pops on film as a high-motor, athletic defensive lineman who plays with excellent leverage, sudden quickness off the ball, and violent, active hands at the point of attack. You shoot gaps, disrupt the run game, and finish with relentless pursuit — 52 tackles (27 solo) in 11 games as a sophomore while earning LA City Section All-City honors on the DL. Explosive first step and competitive attitude let you create negative plays and get to the football from multiple spots. Two-way toughness shows up on the offensive side too (WR/DB reps), where you flash ball skills, speed, and football IQ. Pad level stays low, you shed blockers cleanly, and you play every snap like it's your last.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>Changes that would take you to the next level:</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As a sophomore you're still growing into your frame at 204 lbs — you'll need to add 15–20 lbs of functional mass and explosion in a college weight program to consistently stack and shed bigger offensive linemen or anchor vs. double teams at the next level. Pass-rush toolbox is solid with initial quickness and power but still expanding; needs more counters, rip/swim combos, and finesse when veteran blockers stall your first move. Coverage and route-running reps as a DB/WR are functional but not yet a featured strength on tape.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>If / how you project to help a team win</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Capers projects as a versatile, high-effort defensive lineman/edge athlete who can clog running lanes, collapse pockets, and make plays all over the field while bringing two-way toughness. His blend of athleticism, motor, leverage, and proven production creates negative plays that wear down offensive lines over four quarters and elevates the entire defense. Continued physical development and refinement of his rush arsenal give him the ceiling to be a disruptive three-down player who demands extra attention and helps teams control the line of scrimmage.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Bottom line:</strong> Athletic, productive sophomore DL with All-City recognition, two-way versatility, and the frame/motor to climb recruiting boards fast in the 2028 class. San Pedro's “Soph Season” tape shows a kid whose best football is still way ahead of him — definitely a name to watch.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://twitter.com/kaylen_dupree09?s=20">https://twitter.com/kaylen_dupree09?s=20</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /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":"Raylen Worthen","_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":"6'0u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"190","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2406","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Birmingham","_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-69d5db818f1e5"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">•&nbsp;<strong>What you do well</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Worthen jumps off the tape as a high-motor, instinctive front-seven defender who flies to the football with relentless pursuit and clean tackling. You show sudden burst off the ball, active hands to shed blockers, and the ability to disrupt in the run game while generating pressure as a pass rusher. Productive every week — 37 tackles (20 solo), 5 TFL, 1 forced fumble, and 2 QB hurries in 9 games as a junior while earning LA City Section All-City honors on the defensive line. Versatile enough to play inside, on the edge, or at linebacker, with great football IQ, effort, and the competitive attitude that keeps you around the ball on every snap.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>Changes that would take you to the next level:</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Still on the lighter side at 190 lbs for a full-time college defensive lineman or edge player — you'll need to add 20+ pounds of functional mass and strength in a college weight program to consistently anchor against double teams and hold up vs. bigger, more physical offensive linemen at the Power level. Pass-rush toolbox is solid with initial quickness and power but still developing more counters, rip/swim combos, and finesse to beat veteran blockers. Lateral range is good but will continue to improve with added size and explosion.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>If / how you project to help a team win</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Worthen projects as a versatile, high-effort DL/LB or EDGE who can clog lanes, create negative plays in the backfield, set the edge in the run game, and pressure the quarterback. His combination of athleticism, motor, production, and All-City-level playmaking makes him exactly the kind of disruptive front-seven player who wears down offensive lines over four quarters, forces turnovers, and elevates the entire defense. With continued physical development and refinement of his technique, he has the ceiling to be a starter who controls gaps, generates consistent pressure, and helps teams win in the trenches.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Bottom line:</strong>&nbsp;Athletic, productive junior DL/LB with LA City Section All-City honors and the film/motor to keep climbing boards in the 2027 cycle. High-effort two-way front-seven guy whose best football is still way ahead of him — a name to watch closely at Birmingham.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /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":" Draysean Mixon","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2028","_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":"240","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2406","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Dorsey","_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-69d5db818f274"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">•&nbsp;<strong>What you do well</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Mixon jumps off the tape as a big-bodied, physical sophomore defensive lineman who plays with excellent leverage, violent hands, and a nonstop motor that wears down blockers. Already 6'2”, 240 lbs, you shoot gaps with sudden quickness for your size, stack and shed effectively, and create consistent disruption in the backfield — 20 tackles, 10 TFL, 1 sack, and 2 forced fumbles in just 8 games while earning LA City Section All-City honors on the DL. Strong anchor in the run game who occupies double teams and frees up linebackers while still making plays yourself. Two-way toughness shows up at TE (and some RB/LB reps), where your football IQ and mirror ability stand out. High-effort kid who pursues laterally and finishes with attitude every snap.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>Changes that would take you to the next level:</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Pad level can rise against lengthier offensive linemen who get hands inside first, allowing them to ride you up and wash you out at times. Pass-rush toolbox is solid with power and initial quickness but still expanding — needs more developed counters, rip/swim combos, and finesse moves to counter veteran interior linemen who've seen your style before. Lateral range and sideline-to-sideline pursuit are good for a sophomore but will keep improving with continued strength and conditioning.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>If / how you project to help a team win</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Mixon projects as a scheme-versatile, high-motor defensive lineman/edge who can anchor the interior, clog running lanes, collapse pockets, and generate negative plays that tilt the field. His blend of early size, athleticism, leverage, and All-City production as a sophomore makes him exactly the kind of trench warrior who wears down offensive lines over four quarters, demands extra attention, and creates opportunities for the entire defense. With continued physical development and refinement in technique, he has clear starter upside in a Power conference front and the makeup to be a tone-setting, disruptive presence who helps teams control the line of scrimmage and win in the trenches.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Bottom line:</strong>&nbsp;Big, productive sophomore DL with LA City Section All-City honors, a frame that already jumps off the tape, and the film to climb recruiting boards fast in the 2028 class. Dorsey's interior presence is a guy whose best football is still way ahead of him — definitely a name to watch closely.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /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":"Hector Lopez","_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":"6'0u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"250","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2406","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Venice","_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-69d5db818f304"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">•&nbsp;<strong>What you do well</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Lopez jumps off the tape as a thick, physical interior defensive lineman who plays with excellent leverage, violent hands, and a nonstop motor that wears down blockers. You shoot gaps with solid quickness for your size, stack and shed effectively, and create consistent disruption in the backfield — 5.0 sacks as a junior while anchoring the line. Strong at the point of attack in the run game; you occupy blockers, clog lanes, and free up linebackers while still making plays yourself. Two-way toughness shows up on the offensive line at guard, where your football IQ, mirror ability, and drive-blocking power stand out. High-effort kid who pursues laterally and finishes with attitude every snap.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>Changes that would take you to the next level:</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Pad level can rise against longer offensive linemen who get hands inside first, allowing them to ride you up and wash you out at times. Pass-rush toolbox is solid with power and initial quickness but still expanding — needs more developed counters, rip/swim combos, and finesse to counter veteran interior linemen who've seen your style before. At 6'0”, you win with technique and explosion rather than length, so continued strength and conditioning will be key to dominating Power-level size.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>•&nbsp;<strong>If / how you project to help a team win</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Lopez projects as a scheme-versatile, high-motor defensive tackle who can anchor the interior, collapse pockets, and generate negative plays that tilt the field. His blend of size, leverage, athleticism (4.9 forty), and proven production makes him exactly the kind of trench warrior who wears down offensive lines over four quarters, demands extra attention, and creates opportunities for the entire defense. With continued physical development and refinement in technique, he has clear starter upside in a college front and the makeup to be a tone-setting, disruptive presence who helps teams control the line of scrimmage and win in the trenches.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Bottom line:</strong>&nbsp;Physical, productive junior DT/OL with good size, two-way toughness, and the film to keep climbing boards in the 2027 cycle. Venice's interior presence is a high-effort guy whose best football is still way ahead of him — definitely a name to watch.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->