Senior DL Aesoph is the heart and soul of the Crusader defense. Aesoph currently has (8.0) tackles on the season and is the emotional leader in the defensive front. It will be important for Aesoph to make some plays in the offensive backfield or help press Black Raider QB Koch to get off his mark in the pocket. It will also be important to get hands up in the passing lane trying to force some tipped passes. Aesoph will have a defensive impact in this game for the Crusaders.

Really good experienced defensive lineman who will be part of a defense looking to slow down a potent running attack from the Warriors. Aesoph racked up (43.5) tackles and (8.5) TFL last season. Aesoph is good at the point of attack and filling rush lanes. His ability to get in the offensive backfield and crowd the pocket this Friday would help take some heat off the Crusader linebackers.

Maxwell Aesoph Maxwell Aesoph 6'1" | 220 lbs | DL/ATH Bishop Heelan | 2027 IA gives an edge on the trenches for the Crusaders, and is one of their most proficient starters from their defense returning in 2026. Aesoph recorded 43.5 total tackles, 8.5 TFLs, 4 sacks, 2 FFs, 2 fumble recoveries, and an INT last season. A potent and well-polished DE who’s able to set the Edge and disrupt the pass in multiple different ways, Aesoph is able to change directions and shed off blockers quickly to shift himself in the direction of where the ball is going to run into their path, showcasing a barrage of pass-rush moves while possessing the strength to leverage through blockers attacking their inside shoulder as well. Aesoph should once again be a huge problem for opposing offenses in the pass-rush.

I watched Aesoph in person during the Class 4A state semifinals and left the field impressed with his ability. He’s a high-motor player that maximizes his natural ability with effort and drive. It led to him piling up 43.5 tackles, 24 of which were solo stops, for a Crusaders’ outfit that reached the state championship game. He registered 8.5 tackles, 4.0 sacks, two forced fumbles and a pair of fumble recoveries, displaying his penchant for disruption. We can see Aesoph’s current production and his upside during his junior highlight video. He reads the quarterback eying a screen pass on the first clip, when he steps in front of it for a pick after lining up at defensive tackle. Aesoph beats the right tackle on a spin move inside and drops the signal caller coming off of the edge on Clip 2. It’s a versatile skill set that adds value to a college roster thanks to positional flexibility and ability to bring value on special teams.