I first saw Drake compete in person during the Back2Ballin 7v7 tournament in April of 2025 in Cedar Falls. Not the biggest guy on the field, he made plays with his toughness, speed and determination. He did that again during an in-person scout last season against Newton and Friday night when competing with defending state champion Xavier. Drake was standing out playing both ways at the Class 4A level. He helped lock up Saints receivers for a good part of the evening. On offense, he hauled in eight balls for 127 yards, including a 50-yard touchdown grab. Again, undersized in a big-person sport, Drake plays the game at a great tempo and is fearless. There’s a high football IQ as well. He could help a lot of colleges with his broad skill set.

Drake flashed potential as a prospect on both sides of the ball when watching him at the Back2Ballin 7-on-7 tournament early last year. I caught him at a live scout again during the season, when the Clippers took on a state-semifinalist in Newton. Drake was doing a little bit of everything for CCA this season. He took advantage of his opportunities in any of the three phases and further developed for what should be greater contributions in 2026. We see that when watching his 10th-grade highlight video. There’s potential for development on both sides of the ball. Drake looks comfortable making plays as a slot receiver and defensive back. He displays a good feel for finding holes in the defense with crisp routes. As a cornerback, Drake changes directions and closes on the ball well.

Drake is among a crop of talented underclassmen at Clear Creek Amana. Expect Lance Pedersen to have the Clippers in the hunt with the group. Drake looks like a dynamic playmaker on the both sides of the ball during his freshman highlight video. On the ninth-grade squad, he rushed for 756 rushing yards and totaled 11 touchdowns. He picked off two passes. He’s a versatile running back capable of lining up in the slot. Drake can hit the jets with the ball in his hands. On defense, he shows fluid movements at cornerback. He hits and tackles well enough to play safety.