Under The Radar Kansas 2024’s
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Kansas’ 2022 & 2023 class is garnering quite a bit of attention right now. But what about the 2024’s? We decided to take a quick dive and look at a few names you need to know entering the 2021 season!…
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Continue ReadingKansas’ 2022 & 2023 class is garnering quite a bit of attention right now. But what about the 2024’s? We decided to take a quick dive and look at a few names you need to know entering the 2021 season!
RB: Derek Hubbard Derek Hubbard 5'9" | 170 lbs | RB Derby | 2024 State KS , 5’7, 150, Derby
A smaller running back prospect who can get lost behind the line before bursting through a seam. Hubbard is a talented outside zone runner who understands cut-back lanes and where they’ll hit backside. He’s shown good wiggle in traffic and the ability to wait for his blocks to set up in front of him. Hubbard even has the speed to get to the perimeter if a defender doesn’t set the edge. He saw plenty of varsity action as a freshman for the 2020 6A state champions, backing up one of the state’s top running back prospects. Look for him to take on an even bigger role in 2021.
ATH: Damon Mesa Damon Mesa 6'0" | 205 lbs | ATH Holcomb | 2024 State KS , 6’, 190, Holcomb
A swiss army knife who can play just about anywhere. As a wideout, Mesa is a tough, possession-type receiver who is a nightmare to guard in the redzone. This young man shows violent cuts on film, which often leads to defenders flying right by him. Mesa has even shown some loose hips that help him when looking to change direction. He’s a talented return man who can create a spark on both punt return and kick return if given the opportunity.
QB: BJ Canady, 6’5, 235, Topeka
Canady does not have the body type of your average freshman, and even a good portion of current NFL quarterbacks lack his pure size. On tape, you’ll see a pocket passer who excels as an intermediate thrower. He can expedite his release in quick game concepts if he sees a potential target sitting in an open zone. BJ can improvise when the pocket breaks down but won’t lock onto strictly running the ball. Once he’s in the open field, watch out because this young man will be looking to run you over. Keep an eye on Mr. Canary as he continues to develop his footwork and mechanics over the next three seasons.
DE: Jamal Pratt, 6’2, 235, Olathe North
A vicious defensive end prospect with a great first step off the edge. Pratt’s film was limited in 2020, but the film he did have was outstanding. He’s got a muscular build, showed strong hands and twitchy hips to go with it. Before moving up to the varsity level, he was a bruising tailback who dominated opposing defenses, often dragging tacklers that got in his way. Look for his sack total to skyrocket in year two as a defensive end.