The Runway: 2027 Prospects Ready to Take Off 8/9
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As we head into a new season of youth and middle school football around the country, below is a look at some class of 2027 prospects (athletes beginning their eighth-grade school year) that have come across my desk. As football…
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Continue ReadingAs we head into a new season of youth and middle school football around the country, below is a look at some class of 2027 prospects (athletes beginning their eighth-grade school year) that have come across my desk. As football recruiting and evaluating continues to change, the eighth-grade season is becoming a pivotal time for young athletes to garner early attention from Universities. Here’s a look at some prospects that are on the trajectory to be playing a high level of football for years to come.
When looking at Jones, it’s evident he’s in impeccable physical condition, at a cut-up 6-foot-2 and 170-pounds. Currently Jones is listed as an Athlete because of his versatility. Has the speed and length to play a number of positions including Wide Receiver. However, ultimately, I feel he’s a future All-State Tight End and Defensive End in the making. He’s one of the best in the country at both positions for the class of 2027, without a doubt. Watching his most recent training clips, he looks special at Tight End. Pass catching looks natural and he does a great job of catching away from his body. Possesses verified 4.8 speed in the forty and is also a more than willing blocker if asked to do so.
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Another player cut from a similar mode as Jones (above), Rowe has been nothing short of dominant during his middle school career up to this point. With his eighth-grade year on tape, he’s already 6-foot-4 and 200-pounds. A long, strong Defensive End or a devastating mismatch as a Tight End, Rowe is going to be a highly-coveted prospect over the next four-five years. Fearless pass-catcher who can get it done going across the middle or stretching the field vertically. Also a standout baseball player and basketball player too. The verdict is still out on what sport(s)/position(s) he’ll end up playing, but he’s going to be a good one.
At 6-foot-1 and 170-pounds, Wood is a physically developed and advanced Quarterback for being a 2027 prospect. Possesses good size for this level and strength throughout his body. Strong lower body serves as the power source for a succinct throwing motion and the ability to pick up tough rushing yards. Does a very advanced job of making quick decisions and getting rid of the ball quickly. Quite the natural athlete, he can also shoot lights out on the basketball court. On the gridiron, his athleticism allows him to pick up chunks of yards scrambling and making accurate throws on the run. Could be the next big time Quarterback out of Massachusetts.
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Has become somewhat of a social media phenomenon with his play as a true Cornerback. Earned a scholarship offer from USC last year as a seventh-grader. Gives up significant size at this point, but is an absolute technician at the position. Fearless and twitchy, he’s the perfect balance of aggression and patience outside on an island by himself. Beyond efficient in his backpedal and is in rare company with his ability to break and attack once the ball is in the air. Closes with the best of them and isn’t afraid to come up and support in run support.
Was blown away by Royal this past summer at the Future Stars event in Atlanta, Ga. Had heard of him due to his play as a seventh-grader and after spending a week watching him, he clearly belongs in the upper echelon of 2027 Quarterbacks. Throws a tremendous ball with great velocity and accuracy. What makes him even more dangerous is his ability to pick up yards with his legs too. He’s a true dual-threat that should gain significant college attention early this year. Another trait that won’t ever show up on a stat sheet, his teammates love playing with and for him. He’s a gamer, a kid that can straight up will his team’s way to success. Big fan here.
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The obvious Alpha Male on the Pulaski Academy seventh-grade team a year ago, I’d expect much of the same this year as an eighth-grader. At 5-foot-10 and 160-pounds, he has excellent size for a Running Back on this level. Perhaps some of his size comes from his Grandfather, Darrell Walker, who was a first-round pick of the New York Knicks in the 1983 draft and went on to play a decade in the NBA. Back to Ja’Vion, he is a valuable asset with his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. Can obviously pick up the tough yards, but having him as an option in the passing game separates him from many others. Whether it’s a dive up the middle, jet sweep or a swing pass, he can make a big play happen.