Long, athletic corners who can compete at the catch point are valuable commodities, and 2027 James Monroe DB Bryce Gardinier can fit that mold. Gardinier has the closing speed to stay with receivers downfield and the leaping ability to challenge them in the air. He’s comfortable playing safety, giving this secondary flexibility to adjust its coverage based on the matchup. Gardinier is also a big-time playmaker on offense, adding another dynamic athlete to a roster loaded with talent. His length, athleticism, and ability to challenge throws would make him a spooky matchup for opposing receivers.

3 receptions 105 yards 2 touchdowns Pick-6

Getting a first look at Bryce Gardinier Bryce Gardinier 6'0" | 170 lbs | WR James Monroe | 2027 WV on film this season, it’s easy to see why the 2027 WR/DB entered the year as James Monroe’s returning leading receiver. Gardinier hauled in three receptions for 105 yards and two touchdowns against a good Sherman team, with one of those scores earning a spot on our Top Plays of the Week after he went up over two defenders for a contested catch before racing to the end zone. He showed his vertical ability as a receiver while also getting into space on a touch-pass sweep for his other touchdown. Gardinier’s impact wasn’t limited to offense either, as his work at corner helped limit a usually explosive Sherman passing attack that included a big pick-6. It was a complete Week 2 performance from the Mavericks standout in a hard-fought win.

RETURNING STANDOUT

With Jadyn Hines no longer in the lineup, 2027 WR/DB Bryce Gardinier is primed to become James Monroe’s top target in the passing game. Gardinier finished second on the team with more than 500 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns as a junior while continuing to establish himself as one of the Mavericks’ premier two-way playmakers. A three-year starter, he can change a game quickly as a receiver and shut down opposing wideouts at corner. Gardinier has all the tools to earn All-State recognition and will be one of the biggest focal points of James Monroe’s success this fall.