Mitchell’s recruitment has been interesting. A surge happened when he started as a freshman at one of the state’s top programs. He built on that campaign as a sophomore last season, but college programs were slow to pick up more interest. Still, involvement remained steady, and it was a matter of time before the process progressed with more schools on the next level seeing what’s been there all along – an FBS level offensive lineman with a lot of potential. Florida Atlantic offered a scholarship this summer. He’s been touring colleges all year, including game-day stops this season at South Dakota State, Nebraska and Indiana. It feels like Mitchell’s offer list could take off at any time now. That would be justified.

The 2028 6’3” 245 pound interior offensive lineman was successful in one on ones anchoring vs power rushers.  Held up very well against bull rushes from larger defensive tackles.

The second of two sensational sophomore starting offensive linemen for the 5A state champions, Evan Mitchell Evan Mitchell 6'3" | 260 lbs | OL/DL Dowling Catholic | 2028 State IA looks to be another Power 4 caliber offensive lineman for the Maroons. A player we recently got eyes on at Strength U, Mitchell has the makings of being a mean guard or tackle at the next level as he continues to grow.

A foot-driving OL that plays with a mean streak and isn’t afraid to take his assigned down man to the ground or to the sideline and completely out of the play. Mitchell possesses a high motor and is an OL any team in Iowa would be more than lucky to have — he just happens to play for one of the most storied programs in the state’s history.

Another 2028 OL that is just getting started, Evan Mitchell Evan Mitchell 6'3" | 260 lbs | OL/DL Dowling Catholic | 2028 State IA of Dowling Catholic is fresh off a 5A state championship, and he and the Maroons will be almost just as talented this coming fall.

Mitchell, like others on this list, still has a lot of weight to add to his frame. Technically sound with some pop in his hands off the line of scrimmage, the sophomore already has the attention of several P4 schools, and he’ll almost undoubtedly pick his first offer(s) this summer on the camp circuit. A big guy that can dunk, Mitchell’s athleticism is evident.