I started covering Gates-Franklin when he was an 8th grader playing on Williamsville South’s JV team and he showed incredible athleticism even at a young age. Since then, Xavier has been Canisius’ starting CB. With two varsity seasons under his belt, he should have a big junior year and take a major step forward to be one of their defensive leaders.

So few players make an impact as freshmen, especially in the Monsignor Martin League. But, Gates-Franklin was the Crusaders starting CB right out of the gate. He has excellent instincts and the ability to track the ball in the air. His closing speed is solid and he plays well whether he is man-to-man or in zone.

Gates-Franklin was Canisius’ starting CB as a freshman and showed immediately he belonged. Xavier is solid in man to man coverage and has great reaction timing in zone.

Their season is not over, but Canisius has a pair of Freshman contributing primarily on defense – first is Xavier Gates-Franklin Xavier Gates-Franklin 5'10" | 175 lbs | DB/WR Canisius | 2028 State NY , who plays corner

25 Tackles, 1 INT, 8 PD, 2 FF

Gates has a regular-season film out, so I got a pretty good look at what he has done; he should also see Canisius if they make the CHSFL Final. On film, it’s been a while since I have seen a Freshman this trusted in 1v1 coverage; Canisus doesn’t rotate him a bunch of help, and his cover skills are his best trait. He attacked the catch point, a lot of really nice pass breakups on tape, and he reads and reacts well in zone coverage. He looks pretty comfortable and impressive for a Freshman in that position. Going forward, getting bigger, faster, and stronger are the key aspects of development.

He also gets some WR reps. There are some solid reps on tape there, but for now, I think his best position as a prospect is CB. However, he does flash that athleticism offensively as well.