2021 DL That Made a Name for Themselves
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As many of you have probably read about the large amount of prospects at other positions who made a name for themselves during the 2020 season, we also wanted to take some time to recognize some of the the big…
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Continue ReadingAs many of you have probably read about the large amount of prospects at other positions who made a name for themselves during the 2020 season, we also wanted to take some time to recognize some of the the big boys on the DL, who managed to climb the ranks, and get it done this past season. During a tough season to play close contact football due to the pandemic, there were plenty of senior DL who put their pride aside, did things the right way, and played their hearts out. Because of this, they began to make more of a name for themselves amongst a very talented 2021 class.
David Patterson David Patterson 6'3" | 230 lbs | DL Parkview | 2021 State GA – Parkview
Ohio commit, David Patterson David Patterson 6'3" | 230 lbs | DL Parkview | 2021 State GA stands at a dominating 6’3, 230 pounds. Patterson certainly plays like it as well, as he can be seen to be firing off of the line when evaluating his tape. With this, he also displays great use of his hands, with decent footwork when rushing the passer. Patterson also has a nose for the ball, as he can be seen to be consistent with getting to the ball carrier. When making contact, Patterson also displays a bit of physicality, which will be huge for him at the next level. One thing we will be interested to see is if he can become more fluid in his movement skills. While he shows plenty of upside, he also proves to be stiff at times, while also playing straight up.
Davion Rhodes Davion Rhodes 6'3" | 220 lbs | DL Pelham | 2021 State GA – Pelham
Rhodes, who committed to Georgia Southern in December had a great season in 2020. He can also be seen to be a bit of a less known prospect as well, but nonetheless, he produces on the field. Rhodes not only proves to have a decent build and frame for a DL, but he also utilizes it in his play. His length often times allows him easier access to the ball carrier, and helps him sift past OL when rushing the passer. Along with this, Rhodes also plays with tenacity, which is a beautiful thing to see from a DL player. Paired with these traits, Rhodes also shows a bit of quickness, which proves to be efficient when paired with his footwork. Going into the next level, it will be interesting to see how Georgia Southern utilizes him, and if he can become more explosive off of the ball.
Courtney McBride Courtney McBride 6'3" | 215 lbs | DL Heritage | 2021 State GA – Heritage
McBride, who is another player that committed this past December, found himself with a successful season, and a future in football at FAU after he graduates. While he can be seen to be a bit stiff at times, it can be seen that a huge upside in his ability is his use of his length and frame. McBride is explosive off of the line, and is very quick to use his hands. He is also very efficient at stopping the run, and he is not afraid to stick his nose into some tackles. For him to be successful at the next level, look for him to continue to improve with his footwork, because quicker feet, tied with his current hand use, could be a big difference in the amount of success he can have in the future.
Nick Mercer Nick Mercer 6'3" | 235 lbs | DL Crisp County | 2021 State GA – Crisp County
Like Rhodes, Mercer is also a Georgia Southern commit as of December, and happened to earn this opportunity with his play during the 2020 season. One of the first things that stands out about Mercer is his solid build and frame, which certainly assists him as he is not afraid of contact. Mercer is also a DL prospect who plays well with his eyes, and can read the run, and react to it very well. His quick feet and sudden quickness make it easy for him to adjust to a scrambling QB, and twitchy ball carrier. With this, he also shows decent use of hands, which is great in rushing the passer. Despite all of this upside, we still see some raw characteristics in Mercer at times due to some of his false steps and wasted movement. Going into the next level, look for coaching to be key in his development.