Rize LB MVP and Top Performers

Onto the second position group that I covered for the day at Rize: the linebackers. With a blend of run stuffers and coverage specialists, Rize had it all with this unit. What separated the linebackers from the rest of the position groups is the motor they collectively had throughout the event. Just like the RBs, they were nonstop high intensity from start to finish. There is no doubt in my mind that we had some future D1 stars in attendance at the linebacker position yesterday. And I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if it were one of these Top Performers.    [player_tooltip player_id='1303986' first='Phillip' last='Hines'] flew all over the field on Saturday. I don't think I saw a single RB or WR get the best of him, which is why he was crowned MVP for the linebackers. The first note I wrote on Phillip Saturday morning was "keep an eye on him," and I am glad I did. He was absolutely dominant in coverage, showing fluid hip movement as he turned and ran with the RBs, and used his length to break up the pass before it could make it to the receiver's hands. Phillip also showed he can square up in the hole and scream upfield quickly to shut down any forward progression of a ball carrier. Phillip is truly the full package and made the trip from Georgia a worthwhile trip.     The second LB coming in from Georgia, [player_tooltip player_id='1988424' first='Cruz' last='Ruff'] was right up there with Phillip for the title of MVP. Truly a Top Performer at Rize, coaches were excited by what they saw out of him play in and play out. Right off the bat you knew Cruz was a forced to be reckoned with; he has a bigger frame that as he adds muscle will make him a huge physical presence on the field. What impressed me the most from Cruz was his speed in coverage and aggressiveness towards the ball. He consistently positioned himself to get in the way of the ball, and seemed to anticipate the RB's route before they made their break. He came up with a few interceptions during the drills, capping his Top Performer performance.     [player_tooltip player_id='2043863' first='Ryder' last='Watson'] was one of the early favorites on the the day. He excelled in all of the testing drills, showcasing the athletic ability he is equipped with. Running a sub 5, 40 yard dash, Ryder showed that he has the ability to keep up with some of the quicker RBs and WRs in attendance. On top of that, during individual drills Ryder demonstrated quick, choppy feet and great spatial awareness, both traits that allow him to shut a play down at a moments notice. Keep an eye on this NJ backer.     Brian Webster II is built differently than others in his class. His frame immediately stood out at the beginning of Rize, giving him the look of a player with tremendous long term potential. I wrote down "high ceiling" for Brian, and I think his career is only up from here with the skills and attributes he already has. Brian is a linebacker that everyone should get familiar with, because it is just a matter of time before he is on everyone's radar.     [player_tooltip player_id='1794330' first='Greyson' last='Delatush'] wasted no time making an impression at Rize, opening the day by carving through the L-drill with smooth, efficient movement. He stayed low through his transitions and changed direction with ease, showcasing the athleticism needed to play in space. Throughout the event, Greyson demonstrated the ability to run sideline to sideline and had no trouble matching running backs stride for stride in coverage. He capped off the day by high pointing an interception, highlighting both his range and ball skills. Greyson is a versatile athlete that can run with the best of them, earning him the title of a Top Performer.     Jaxon McCoy is another linebacker from Rize that possesses an extremely high ceiling and has the physical tools to develop into a top prospect. His longer frame gives him excellent range, and he showed good instincts by consistently anticipating the running back's movements, putting himself in a position to make an impact on the play. While he had a little trouble during the 1 on 1 coverage drills, that's far from a concern at this stage of his development. With several years still ahead for Jaxon to refine his technique, his upside makes him a player to keep a close eye on moving forward.

Onto the second position group that I covered for the day at Rize: the linebackers. With a blend of run stuffers and coverage specialists, Rize had it all with this unit. What separated the linebackers from the rest of the position groups is the motor they collectively had throughout the event. Just like the RBs, they were nonstop high intensity from start to finish. There is no doubt in my mind that we had some future D1 stars in attendance at the linebacker position yesterday. And I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if it were one of these Top Performers.