Emerging Defensive Linemen in the 2022 Class
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Seven defensive linemen are ranked in the top fifty overall players in the class of 2022, but there are other seniors worth mentioning. Here are a five that are making a name for themselves going into fall camp. David Robinson…
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Continue ReadingSeven defensive linemen are ranked in the top fifty overall players in the class of 2022, but there are other seniors worth mentioning. Here are a five that are making a name for themselves going into fall camp.
David Robinson David Robinson 6'1" | 305 lbs | DL Saint Vincent Saint Mary Highschool | 2022 OH 6’1” 305 Akron St. Vincent St. Mary
Robinson is a natural at the nose guard position. He can line up as a 2 or 3 technique but is best when shading an offensive center where he can use his leverage and strength to overpower the opponent. Robinson does a superb job of holding the point of attack then work the edges of the offensive blocker. He also has an excellent swim technique which he uses to make penetration into the offensive backfield.
Dylan Graber Dylan Graber 6'3" | 270 lbs | DL Olentangy Liberty | 2022 OH 6’3” 275 Olentangy Liberty
Dylan comes off the ball with a low flat back, getting under the pads of the offensive lineman, often driving the blocker into the backfield, disrupting the offensive scheme. Garber is a quick reactor displaying the ability to flatten along the line of scrimmage to make the play. He has a toolbox of techniques including the spin and the push-pull to shed blockers.
Eddie Kiernan Eddie Kiernan 6'1" | 235 lbs | DL Warren JFK | 2022 OH 6’1” 235 Warren JFK
What Kiernan lacks in size is made up for by his motor that never quits as well as his football instincts. He is quick off the edge as a pass rusher and can flip his hips and changer direction to react to the play. Kiernan also has an excellent inside move to evade the block, then square up to make a hit on the ball carrier. His lateral movement and overall effort is impressive.
Evan Massey Evan Massey 6'3" | 230 lbs | DL Sycamore | 2022 OH 6’3” 230 Cincinnati Sycamore
Massey has active hands and can keep blockers off his frame with his ability to gain inside position. He shows upper body strength in being able to lock the offensive opponent out with one arm as he reads the play. Massey gives extra effort in running plays down from behind. He is versatile enough to play either defensive or defensive tackle.
Hunter Harrison Hunter Harrison 6'2" | 270 lbs | DL Hamilton Badin | 2022 OH 6’2″ 265 Hamilton Badin
Like Robinson, Harrison is made for the middle guard position where he can use his leverage to defeat centers and offensive guards. He is quick off the ball, plays low, and has excellent leg drive. Harrison can hold his own against a double team block then disengage and react to the play. He can play either a 0 or a 1 technique as good as any middle guard.