Key Senior Defensive Prospects to Watch in 2024

[player_tooltip player_id='1284736' first='Daniel' last='Ferguson'] from Bernards stands out as an edge rusher with immense potential. At 6'3” and 205 pounds, he possesses a big, muscular, and long frame, making him a force on the field. When it comes to setting the edge, Daniel excels. His technique is textbook, showcasing how to maintain control at the line of scrimmage. He uses his hands and length effectively, keeping offensive linemen at bay while keeping his off-arm free and active. This allows him to position himself to make plays consistently.   Daniel's football IQ is apparent in how he reads and reacts to plays. He's always aware of where the ball is and does an exceptional job as a one-on-one tackler. It's tough for teams to run outside his edge because he's always in the right place at the right time. While his pass-rushing tape is limited, he does show promise. He has a quick first step and a solid go-to move, utilizing a swat technique to get by linemen and bend around the corner.   Daniel's future may lie at linebacker despite his success as an edge rusher. His frame and the likelihood of adding another 20 pounds in college could make him an ideal off-ball linebacker. He's shown he can cover, too—his interception on tape is evidence of his instincts and football IQ. These combined skills suggest that [player_tooltip player_id='1284736' first='Daniel' last='Ferguson'] is poised for a standout season, and his transition to linebacker at the next level could be seamless.      [player_tooltip player_id='1277798' first='David' last='Holmes'], the defensive tackle from Bloomfield, is a player who commands attention. Standing 6'2” and 270 pounds, David is a powerful presence on the interior defensive line, particularly in the A gaps. His ability to stuff gaps and anchor the run defense is impressive. David consistently plugs lanes using his solid frame, making it difficult for runners to find room. He excels at neutralizing blocks and is a reliable one-on-one tackler when he meets the ball carrier.   While his physicality is undeniable, there's room for growth in his technique. Specifically, David could benefit from using his hands more effectively as a weapon. Right now, he relies heavily on his body to create a wall in the run game, but with improved hand usage, he could become even more dominant. As a pass rusher, there's also potential for growth. His tape shows signs of progress—he's starting to incorporate more moves and become more nimble. This is a key area to watch as the season unfolds.   David's development in these areas could lead to more attention from college scouts. Currently, he holds one NAIA offer from Peru State College, but with continued improvement, especially in hand usage and pass-rush technique, more offers could be on the horizon. There's plenty of optimism surrounding David's upcoming season, and his growth could elevate him to the next level.   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/david_holmes_19/status/1718096623597715563 </div></figure>     [player_tooltip player_id='1287236' first='Devaughn' last='Colter'] is an edge rusher who demands attention. At 5'11” and 205 pounds, he may not have the prototypical size, but his impact on the field is undeniable. Devaughn's explosiveness downhill is one of his standout traits. Whether pass rushing or defending the run, he gets off the ball quickly and uses his hands effectively. His knack for being around the football is remarkable—he's consistently making impactful plays, whether reading the option, recovering fumbles, or creating turnovers for his team.   Devaughn's ability to be a disruptive force is evident. However, given his size and skill set, he might be better suited for the linebacker position at the next level. It will be interesting to see if he gets snaps in that role this season. Devaughn's athleticism, instincts, and playmaking ability make him a game-wrecker, regardless of where he lines up. Expect him to continue being a difference-maker on defense this year, no matter his position.      [player_tooltip player_id='1279492' first='Steven' last='Copeland II'], a linebacker from Bergen Catholic, brings solid size to the position at 6'0”, 220 pounds. Steven is a natural playmaker known for his instincts and quick reactions on the field. He reads and plays exceptionally well, allowing him to make swift decisions and be a reliable one-on-one tackler. He's a key cog in the run game, consistently plugging gaps and bringing down ball carriers.   However, where Steven truly made his mark last season was on special teams. He excelled in punt and kickoff coverage, racking up tackles and proving himself as a force in that game phase. However, with Bergen Catholic losing several key players, this year presents an opportunity for Steven to step up and showcase his versatility. He'll be tasked with making more plays in coverage, where he can further demonstrate his all-around skill set as a linebacker.   If Steven can combine his strengths in run defense and special teams with an improved ability to make plays in coverage, he'll likely see more offers coming his way. He holds an offer from Muhlenberg College, but with a solid senior season, that list could expand significantly.         [player_tooltip player_id='1305282' first='Hassan' last='Joanem'] is a 5'10”, 180-pound linebacker who brings impressive athleticism and explosiveness to the field. Hassan is primarily an outside linebacker, a disruptive force off the edge. Known for his consistent blitzing, he scans plays, allowing him to react quickly and close in on ball carriers. He's a reliable one-on-one tackler when he gets there, ensuring he finishes the job.   Hassan's twitchiness and ability to change direction on a dime truly set him apart. Whether he's crashing downhill to stop a run or playing the bootleg and read option, his athleticism is a weapon he wields with precision. Despite his explosiveness, Hassan remains controlled in his movements, always finding himself in the right place at the right time.   Given his athleticism, Hassan is a player on the watchlist with the potential to get ranked and earn a college offer. This season could be his opportunity to put himself on the map and show his capabilities.    <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/HassanJoanem/status/1827478985401377089 </div></figure>