Perhaps the next name we ought to know out of Winslow, Pierce Noel showed that he is, already, a solid player at the end of his freshman year. I thought that Noel was the most physical defensive back on the day, grabbing, reaching and clawing when defending, while often attacking the ball over the top. Improved pad level will help him move better, while correcting his eye placement will aid him in sticking with his matchup more consistently.

Despite being a member of the 2029 class, Pierce Noel Pierce Noel 5'11" | 175 lbs | DB/WR Winslow | 2029 NJ showed he belonged by competing at a high level against older and more experienced receivers throughout the event. He consistently held his own in coverage, staying attached to routes and making it difficult for wideouts to create meaningful separation. With a bigger frame and commanding presence on the field, he looked comfortable matching physicality while still covering ground efficiently. Pierce was a very close second in the Defensive Back MVP conversation thanks to his consistency and impact across the day. Looking ahead, his skill set projects extremely well to safety, where his range and ability to close space quickly could make him a tackling machine once the season begins.

Coach comments on Pierce Noel Pierce Noel 5'11" | 175 lbs | DB/WR Winslow | 2029 NJ :

“Pierce is a stud on the defensive side of the ball. All weekend long, we left him on an island with big expectations to follow and shut down the other team’s best receiver, and he delivered every game. With his size, speed, and strength, it’s hard to get a step on him.”

No one caught my eye like Pierce did on the weekend, he may have been the sleeper MVP at the 15 U level. He may not have posted many stats or had highlight clips to share, but that is also the reason for having him in high regard. Pierce was a shutdown CB for Harm Elite G-Force the whole 7v7 weekend. In both the semi-finals and final of the tourney, Pierce did not allow a single reception or even let the receiver he was covering get a bit open. Harm Elite G-Force plays a tight press man defense which was key for their success and Pierce took teams top WRs and shut them down. With good size/build and strength he can play man press and jam the receiver at the LOS. Showcasing quick feet and smooth fluid hips, Pierce was able to stay in the pocket of WRs at all times. Opponents would try to switch receivers on him, either trying to get their main playmaker off of him or overload his side hoping to throw off coverage, but he shut it all down.

Pierce played all season on varsity for Williamstown, and now moves over to Winslow for next fall. I expect him to slide right in and be a key part of their secondary and see him inline to be a top DB for his class in the state. A strong overall athlete as well, Noel plays basketball and runs track too. Looking forward to seeing him continue to develop his game and I am high on his potential.