2025 Defensive Backs in Kentucky to Watch in the Playoffs
In this article:
As high school football action continues in the playoffs, it’s time to visit the Bluegrass State to highlight some of the most explosive players that have established themselves as high-level playmakers during the regular season. Without any further ado, here’s…
Access all of Prep Redzone
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingAs high school football action continues in the playoffs, it’s time to visit the Bluegrass State to highlight some of the most explosive players that have established themselves as high-level playmakers during the regular season. Without any further ado, here’s my list of some of the top 2025 defensive backs in Kentucky that should be worth keeping an eye on in the playoffs.
At the top of my list of notable performers is Buddy Collins Buddy Collins 5'10" | 165 lbs | DB Scott County | 2025 State KY , a 5-foot-10, 165-pound defensive back at Scott County High School. Collins and the Cardinals continue their schedule with Conner this week. What impresses me the most about Collins is his physicality in coverage, using his quickness and disruptiveness to keep the ball out of the hands of receivers. Collins also stands out with his stopping power, showcasing his ability to deck receivers and protect the backfield from deep passes. Another aspect of Collins that makes a difference is his reliability on kick returns, using his footwork and durable edge to break tackles on his way down the field.
I am additionally impressed with Jaiden Shegog Jaiden Shegog 5'9" | 160 lbs | DB Bryan Station | 2025 State KY , a 5-foot-9, 160-pound defensive back at Bryan Station High School. Shegog and the Defenders are set to take on Lafayette in their next matchup. Shegog stands out with his strong positioning in the backfield and ability to quickly jump in front of receivers to pick off the quarterback. I also like how Shegog quickly adapts on the ground, using his physical edge to stay on his feet under pressure and take it all the way to the house. Shegog’s ability to stay with his man in coverage also makes a difference, showing off his ability to pressure the deep throw as well as shut down reliable passing lanes.
Claiming the number three spot on my list is Hunter Holloway Hunter Holloway 6'0" | 145 lbs | QB KY , a 6-foot-2, 160-pound defensive back at Logan County High School. Holloway and the Cougars are preparing to face off against John Hardin this week. What I like about Holloway is his awareness and ability to adapt, proving he can capitalize defensively with his ability to pick off the quarterback on bobbled passes. Holloway also stands out with his deceptive footwork and speed in coverage, using his strength to overpower receivers and get in front of passes. Another aspect of Holloway’s playstyle that stands out is his ability to gain major yardage from along the edge on kick returns.
Highlights
Another skilled prospect to keep an eye on is Israel Carter-Swanagan Israel Carter-Swanagan 5'9" | 125 lbs | DB Owensboro | 2025 KY , a 5-foot-9, 125-pound defensive back at Owensboro High School. Swanagan and the Red Devils are preparing for a contest with Ohio County this week. In addition to excellent speed down the stretch, what makes Swanagan so efficient is his ability to read the pass and attack the ball in the air. I also like Swanagan’s ability to target the ball, make quick stops and catch receivers from along the edge, showing off his ability to protect the backfield and disrupt offensive production in the air.
Coming in at number five on my list is Martels Carter Jr Martels Carter Jr 6'0" | 185 lbs | ATH Paducah Tilghman | 2025 State KY ., a 6-foot-0, 185-pound defensive back at Paducah Tilghman High School. Carter and the Blue Tornado are set to take on Breckinridge County this week. Carter makes a considerable difference down the stretch due to his overall control, explosive speed and athleticism. Carter has proven he can consistently stick with his man off the snap, disrupt short passing, stop deep shots and haul in interceptions. I also like how Carter can read the offense and predict where the quarterback is throwing the ball.