Meet Tristen Sanders Tristen Sanders 6'3" | 253 lbs | DL/TE Suffield Academy | 2027 State New E , a standout defensive lineman from Suffield Academy in Connecticut. At 6’3″ and 253 pounds, he possesses a formidable frame that projects well for collegiate play. Known for his exceptional hand technique and strong lower body, Tristen effectively utilizes a bull rush to dominate opponents. Despite having room to improve his first step quickness, he showcases impressive footwork, gap penetration abilities, and a knack for controlling the line of scrimmage. With a verbal offer already received, Tristen is a promising developmental prospect for the future!

Tristen has a quick first step and plays with a relentless motor. He can take on larger blockers, and uses violent hands to get into the backfield. He has a good mix of size and strength and came up with a big offer this summer. He is definitely a player to watch this Fall.

Ranking: #95 Overall, #22 Defensive Lineman, Class of 2026
School: South Portland High School
Tristen Sanders Tristen Sanders 6'3" | 253 lbs | DL/TE Suffield Academy | 2027 State New E has consistently shown potential that justifies his placement as the #95 prospect in New England. At 6’5″ and 250 pounds, his massive frame and strong lower body enable him to excel in bull rush techniques. The film reveals his adept use of hands and arm extension to read plays, displaying good footwork and leverage in the run game. While his first-step quickness is slightly below optimal, this is a fixable attribute that a college program can enhance. His ability to overpower high school offensive linemen and control the line of scrimmage stands out, with flashes of gap penetration that hint at future success. Continued verification of his physical metrics will be essential as we monitor his development. His high ceiling marks him as a prospect with significant upside.
Film Link

Prospect Overview:

This comprehensive evaluation indicates Tristen Sanders Tristen Sanders 6'3" | 253 lbs | DL/TE Suffield Academy | 2027 State New E as a high-potential developmental prospect with strong fundamentals and room for growth. He is particularly valuable for collegiate-level programs looking for players with his physical attributes and skill set.

Class: 2026

Position: Defensive End/Tight End (DE/TE)

Height: 6’5″

Weight: 250 lbs

Wingspan: 6’9″

Location: South Portland, ME
Film Review (Dated 12/11/24):

Strengths:

Excellent use of hands with good arm extension for reading and reacting to plays.

Strong lower body, demonstrated through an effective bull rush technique.

Notable ability to overpower high school offensive linemen, showcasing a large frame that indicates potential for future development.

Effective in controlling the line of scrimmage with good footwork and leverage, particularly in the run game.

Capable of getting off blocks and flashing the ability to penetrate gaps in the offensive line.

Weaknesses:

His highlight film lacks any clips displaying visible first-step quickness, which could impact initial engagement with offensive players.

Projected Position:

He is projected to transition to an inside-down defensive lineman at the next level due to physical attributes and skill set.

Achievements:

2023 & 2024 All-Conference honors.

Achieved a GPA of 3.2.

Participates as a two-sport athlete, excelling in both football and basketball.

Highlight Film: