Future Focus- Elite 2022 off-ball defenders
Earlier this week we introduced you to the top junior defensive linemen. Based on the way the class of 2022 rankings fell, we decided to combine linebackers and defensive backs into an “off-ball defenders” group. Most of these players are…
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Continue ReadingEarlier this week we introduced you to the top junior defensive linemen. Based on the way the class of 2022 rankings fell, we decided to combine linebackers and defensive backs into an “off-ball defenders” group. Most of these players are already elite college prospects; in other words, they are must-see attractions.
Jalon Walker Jalon Walker 6'2" | 220 lbs | LB Salisbury | 2022 State NC , 6’2 210, LB, Salisbury
Perhaps the hardest-hitter in the state, Walker is the highest-ranked pure linebacker in our 2022 rankings. He excels against both the run and pass, especially when he get to deliver a bone-crunching hit on an unsuspecting receiver or ball carrier. His closing speed is next level and allows him to take chances and make up for a false step with pure speed. National powers like Clemson are already recruiting Walker heavily and he’ll be a priority target for several of the country’s best teams.
Isaiah Crowell Isaiah Crowell 6'0" | 180 lbs | DB East Forsyth | 2022 State NC , 6’ 180, DB, East Forsythe
Crowell is an elite run defender from his secondary position. On any given day, he’ll play all five defensive back positions and will likely be the best player on the field from any of them. Crowell is already fairly refined as a corner and that’s where we see him playing in college. Add to that his elite athleticism and he’s the type of player top programs want. With offers from dozens of Power Five schools, Crowell’s recruitment will be an interesting one to follow over the next year.
Torren Wright Torren Wright 6'3" | 210 lbs | LB A.L. Brown | 2022 State NC , 6’3 210, LB, A.L. Brown
If you look at Wright’s Hudl film, it takes about 20 seconds to recognize his versatility. His first three plays are made from defensive end, slot corner and outside linebacker, respectively. It takes a special athlete to do just that, but Wright is a special athlete. He projects as an outside linebacker, but he’ll be limited only be the imagination of his college defensive coordinator. Wright’s one of our favorites in the 2022 class and could challenge Walker for the top linebacker spot.
Xavier Simmons Xavier Simmons 6'3" | 235 lbs | LB Northwest Guilford | 2022 State NC , 6’3 210, LB, Northwest Guilford
Our top middle linebacker in the 2022 class, Simmons is also a standout receiver. His future is in the middle of the defense though as an elite sideline-to-sideline tackling machine. Simmons has the frame to add a bit more weight and will be highly sought after at the next level. We love his ability to both stop the run and rush the passer and expect him to continuing improving in pass coverage over the next year.