Popov is a true run-stuffing defensive tackle who dominates in the interior. The 6’3, 270 lbs plugger out of Waubonsie Valley is incredibly powerful. His strength jumps off in his tape, showcasing the ability to defeat both single blocks and double teams with ease. With his powerful base, Popov rarely gets pushed backwards. He knows how to use his hands and leverage to throw blockers off of him and make tackles in the backfield. As he heads into his senior campaign, Popov is a rising star in the Land of Lincoln.

From watchlist to the Top 75, Waubonsie Valley’s Stefan Popov Stefan Popov 6'4" | 250 lbs | DL/OL Waubonsie Valley | 2025 State IL has the chance to continue the Warrior’s current trend of high-profile and highly-touted high school prospects and put up strong reps along both the offensive & defensive lines last fall as a sophomore. The 6’3, 270 lber. can easily rip through 1-on-1 blocking attempts when playing DL, is patient and anchors very well in his pass sets as an OT, and does a great job of running his feet once he’s engaged with an opponent. I also like how he works laterally along the LOS and uses leverage to his advantage when trying to finish defensive linemen. His strength on the gridiron is also evident in the weight room, where he easily repped a 315 lb. bench press as well as a 315 lb. front squat in the offseason going into his now-completed sophomore year. Popov also posted a 4.78 short-shuttle at The Line Showcase in IL this spring. There are some good things going for him on both sides of the ball going into his upperclassman campaign and PRzIL is pumped to check out how the offseason has treated him.