The top choice here, Lucas Diehl Lucas Diehl 6'3" | 265 lbs | DL/OL Kuemper Catholic | 2027 State IA was one of the most productive pass-rushers in the entire state last season, and his presence proved critical in securing the Knights’ perfect campaign en route to winning the 2A conference. Diehl’s 14 sacks were the 2nd most in the state only behind Dowling Catholic’s Ryan Bobo. He added 54 tackles, 18 TFLs, a FF, and 2 fumble recoveries. A powerful DT who arrives to the LOS each play with a crash, Diehl has proven consistently difficult to stop, showcasing a combination of speed, strength, and high-motor intensity that is nearly unmatched among his peers at this level. Diehl will look to maintain the fabric of that perfect unit from 2025, and he will be taking his talents to NDSU following his senior year.

The 2A leader in sacks while also finishing with the second most in all classes, Lucas Diehl Lucas Diehl 6'3" | 265 lbs | DL/OL Kuemper Catholic | 2027 State IA ‘s monstrous size was too much for offensive linemen to handle last year. Serving as one of the cornerstone’s for Kuemper’s title run, Diehl finished with 14 sacks last fall. A rare DL that’s in constant pursuit of the football, Diehl rarely, if ever gave up on a play, chasing down quarterbacks out of the pocket and running backs past the line of scrimmage. Often double-teamed, Diehl still would wreak havoc on opposing offenses, using violence and his devastating swim move.

As an OL, Diehl showed strong pad-level despite his size, driving back defensive linemen and completely taking them out of the play.

If there’s an OL/DL combo that has a chance to win the prestigious award, it may be Diehl.

Diehl was one of the guys I was most looking forward to seeing during the state semifinals at the UNI-Dome. He did not disappoint during a convincing victory against Wilton. Diehl stood out on both sides of the ball for his physicality and power. He overwhelmed the opponent, showing live what he displays on tape. Diehl operates with good pad level on both sides of the trench and benefits from a sound foundation. He wins with his hands wherever he lines up. I think he could develop on offense or defense at the next level, and definitely is deserving of more attention on the recruiting trail.

Diehl is the real deal, a prospect with current production and potential for much more down the line. Witness that for yourself by watching his sophomore highlight video, in which he does not look like a 10th-grader. He played well beyond his years, which makes the next two seasons and beyond exciting to think about. In 2024, he contributed 12 solo tackles, 4.0 stops for loss and a sack to the cause. Those numbers should rise in 2024. Diehl was physically advanced last year, and with another year of development, he’ll be harder to handle. His technique is sound and he plays disciplined football, operating within the Knight scheme. Diehl looks like a great bet to break out this fall.