Chasing the Corner: 2027 Illinois Edge Prospects

Eric Bergman February 10, 2026 @ 04:47 PM

Dylan Riordan – Hinsdale Central – Edge Riordan has quietly developed into one of Hinsdale Central's most consistent effort players on the perimeter. He uses his length well to keep blockers off his frame and shows flashes of being able to flatten toward the quarterback. His first step continues to improve, and coaches like how hard he plays on the backside of runs. As he adds strength, his ability to convert speed to power should become a bigger part of his game.   [player_tooltip player_id='1598811' first='Brian' last='Demoss'] – Simeon – Edge Demoss is the type of defender every staff appreciates—relentless and competitive on every snap. He wins early with motor and is beginning to pair that effort with a more defined rush plan. His willingness to set the edge against bigger linemen has earned him more trust, and he projects as a player who will keep climbing with added technique.   Marko Wallace – Hinsdale South – Edge Wallace brings twitch and lateral quickness to the Hawks' front. He bends naturally around the corner and shows comfort when asked to drop into short coverage zones. The next step for him is adding functional mass so his speed can show up more consistently on contact.   [player_tooltip player_id='1335757' first='Jonathan' last='Mansker'] – Hinsdale South – Edge Mansker offers a longer frame and physical presence opposite Wallace. He understands contain responsibilities and rarely loses outside leverage. His hand usage has improved, and he is learning how to counter when tackles overset him.   Tom Bonakdar – Fenwick – Edge Bonakdar plays with excellent pad level and a blue-collar mentality. He doesn't rely on one move and continues to add tools to his toolbox. Fenwick has used him in multiple spots because of his reliability and willingness to handle dirty work.   Mutaz Alshahrour – Hinsdale Central – Edge Alshahrour is a developing pass rusher with encouraging natural bend. He shows good timing on stunts and has become more disciplined in his rush lanes. Another year of physical growth could unlock a larger role.   This group reflects what real development looks like on the edge—players learning how to blend effort, technique, and strength into consistent production. Their impact may grow gradually, but the trajectory is pointing up.

Dylan Riordan – Hinsdale Central – Edge
Riordan has quietly developed into one of Hinsdale Central's most consistent effort players on the perimeter. He uses his length well to keep blockers off his frame and shows flashes of being able to flatten toward the quarterback. His first step continues to improve, and coaches like how hard he plays on the backside of runs. As he adds strength, his ability to convert speed to power should become a bigger part of his game.