McDaniels is a prospect I have been all over this year, and rightfully so. An under-the-radar but sure-fire FBS caliber talent in my opinion, shined brightest in a rivalry game this weekend. In a 28-26 upset victory over arch enemy Union, McDaniels pick-six proved to be the difference that put Elizabeth ahead for good in the game. Further, McDaniels converted a two point conversion and went 5/59/1 through the air as a receiver in a contest where he went up against one of the more lauded defensive back prospects in Renick Dorilas Renick Dorilas 5'11" | 150 lbs | DB Don Bosco | 2025 State NJ , winning the matchup. He has now scored in 4 straight games.

Another under-the-radar prospect starting to hit stride and turn heads is Elizabeth’s McDaniels. On the field behind the McDonald’s, McDaniels had his second 140+ yard game of the season and scored in his second consecutive game. The FBC-sized prospect slashed 5/146/1 in a a nail biter against St. Joseph’s of Metuchen. McDaniel’s stat line also featured a 29.2 yards per reception average and a 63 yard catch-and-run that was mostly accrued because of YAC yardage.

Described by his coach as one of the state’s best-kept secrets, McDaniels had the first breakout campaign of his senior season. Rumored to have jumped 39″ vertically at Monmouth and ran a 4.40 second forty at Penn State, McDaniels was a problem for Plainfield all afternoon long. The 6’3″ target hauled in 9 balls for 152 yards, rushed twice for six yards, competed his only pass attempt for 16 yards, and made two tackles while recovering 1 fumble on defense.

If you are unfamiliar with McDaniels, you ought to acquaint yourself. McDaniels dominated in each and every game he participated in. Offensively, the talented senior scored in each of the Minutemen’s games. Aside from blazing the field with his speed, he showed great ball skills and excelled at high pointing the ball making him a bonafide field stretcher. He catches with his hands and his routes are crisp in-and-out of his breaks. As well as he did on offense, defense might be his penchant. Across four contests McDaniels only allowed one catch from his cornerback position. His long arms make it difficult for his matchup to get a release and he leverages the boundary very well. Yes, he has outstanding play; however his athleticism might be what makes him a FBS prospect. In brief conversations with the staff, McDaniels registered a 39″ vertical jump at the Monmouth Camp and ran a 4.42 second and a 4.40 second 40-yard dash at the Penn State Camp. Remember his name: Ibn McDaniels Ibn McDaniels 6'3" | 185 lbs | ATH Elizabeth | 2024 NJ .