Four Offensive Lineman to know in the 2022 class
Perhaps the least talked about, and most undervalued position in sports, the offensive line is integral to the success of any offense. The best teams are successful in the pass game and the run game, and it all starts up…
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Continue ReadingPerhaps the least talked about, and most undervalued position in sports, the offensive line is integral to the success of any offense. The best teams are successful in the pass game and the run game, and it all starts up front. We’ve seen the affects of good offensive line play, with the Indianapolis Colts over the last couple of years, keeping their quarterbacks protected and creating huge gaps in the run game. Then there’s the Kansas City Chiefs who were down two starters in the super bowl this past season, and seemingly couldn’t keep their quarterback upright and on his feet all game long. These players here excel in both aspects of their blocking, and are big names to watch going into their senior seasons.
Ja’Kobe Watkins Ja’Kobe Watkins 6'3" | 290 lbs | OL Belleville | 2022 State MI , 6’3, 290, Belleville
Watkins gave up zero sacks on the season and led his team to a record of 10-1. He’s got great size for the guard position and is an absolute monster on the field. He’s in the habit of finishing his blocks strong, sometimes 10 yards down the field. He can play on both sides of the line, either at tackle or guard, making him one of the more versatile players in the state. His feet are one of his strength as well, showing good quickness and an ability to pull and lead block in the run game.
C.J. Aldred C.J. Aldred 6'4" | 300 lbs | OL Waterford Mott | 2022 MI , 6’4, 310, Waterford Mott
Aldred is the complete package at guard, with great size and good overall athleticism. He’s an absolute wall in the run game, and defenders will have better luck elsewhere trying to get into the backfield. He’s clearly got a very good work ethic, and does a good job od holding blocks for a good three or four seconds consistently.
Devin Runnells, 6’6, 330, Flint Beecher
Runnells will always be the biggest player on the field, which is one positive for him. Perhaps his biggest strength is, well, his strength. He’s on another level when it comes to his sheer power and athleticism. Smaller players don’t stand a chance, and he can cover a lot of ground at the tackle position, making it nearly impossible to slide by him. He’s got a lot of room to grow, given his high level of athleticism, headed into his senior season, and there’s no doubt he’s one to watch in the state of Michigan.
Garrett Masterson Garrett Masterson 6'7" | 295 lbs | OL Lapeer | 2022 State MI , 6’7, 300, Lapeer
Masterson gets down the field really well, and creates a powerful blow towards his opponents. At 6’7 he has to work to get low in his blocks, but does a good job with his overall skill set and strength to be a force up front. He’s the cornerstone of the program at Lapeer and will no doubt be an integral part to the teams success going forward. The last thing that really stands out about Masterson is his quickness.He moves much faster than a typical 300 pounder, which only bodes well for his long term success.