Coming into the game I knew Brogan was going to be the X-factor for this Highland team.  At a self-reported 6’5 230, Brogan is massive compared to most of his opponents in 1A so I was excited to see him against the “bigger” 2A Cowboys squad.  Nursing a high ankle sprain from their game the week prior, he still showed his heavy impact displaying his play strength and athleticism.  From the get-go, you could tell the Cowboys offense gameplan was to slow the Huskies dynamic pass rush of Brogan and fellow DE #44 Audie Lewis (FR) – getting the ball out quick and designing runs away from Palmer on the defensive declared run-strength side.  Brogan showed he is capable playing multiple spots on the DL from a Wide 9, stand up and hand in the dirt 5-tech, and 3-tech.  I think the sky is the limit for the senior and will have a more in-depth evaluation and interview this upcoming week in my Small School Spotlight report shining light on his immense potential flying under the radar.

Palmer had a very productive season for Highland last season. Measures in at 6’5 220-pounds. Playing both edge rusher and tight end, he had 17 receptions for 306 yards and 1 touchdown, 73 total tackles (42 solo, 31 assisted), 28 TFL, 11 sacks, 49 QB hurries, 9 PD, 7 FF, and 2 FR. His stats are eye popping. He has very good athletic ability due to very good acceleration, speed, good lateral quickness and jumping. Very good strength and hand speed to engage in the offensive line first. Very good hand placement and hand strength. Palmer is a very good block shedder and has good get off speed. He lived in the backfield demonstrates his relentless pursuit. Very good bend around the edge and a bull rush. Kid is a beast, and I’m very excited to see how he continues in his senior year.

Palmer brings rare size at 6’5 and an unteachable motor. He wreaked havoc last season, posting 11 sacks, 28 tackles for loss, and forcing 7 fumbles, including a scoop and score that was eye catching. His high impact play jumps off the tape, and while there’s intrigue around how he’ll perform against elite competition, his current production demands attention. If he continues to develop and tests himself against tougher opponents, Palmer could solidify his status as one of the state’s top edge prospects.

Palmer balled out this past season for Highland, playing edge rusher and tight end. Measuring in at 6’5 220-pounds, Palmer had 73 total tackles (42 solo, 31 assisted), 28 TFL, 11 sacks, 49 QB hurries, 9 PD, 7 FF, 2 FR, 17 receptions for 306 yards and 1 touchdown. He has very good acceleration, good speed, lateral quickness, and change of direction. Very good burst out of his stance, engaging with the defender first. Palmer’s very good strength is evident. He has very good hand placement and hand strength, moving the OL around at will. Very good block shedder who knows when to release the OL to make a play. Very good mental processing. He’s smart against read options and stays patient with tackling. Palmer will also try to punch the ball out or strip it from the running back’s hands. He’s an all-around great player, and should have some teams giving him offers.

Palmer had a breakout season, proving to be one of the most disruptive edge rushers in his class. He racked up an impressive 11 sacks and 28 tackles for loss, consistently overpowering blockers and wreaking havoc in the backfield. At 6’5, Palmer combines speed and strength, allowing him to beat offensive linemen with quickness or disengage with power to disrupt the passing lanes. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and shut down running lanes makes him a must know player this offseason. Expect him to draw plenty of attention as a top edge defender moving forward.