The future of football was on full display at DR7 Oklahoma City, as several young athletes in the 10U and 12U divisions showcased their impressive skill sets. From explosive playmakers to lockdown defenders, these rising stars made a statement with their talent, effort, and high-level execution. Whether it was precise route running, strong defensive instincts, or dynamic playmaking ability, these athletes proved they are next up in the game. The mission and goal of The Platform is to #ExposeTheUnexposed and provide adequate coverage of athletes around the country giving them exposure. Here’s a look at some of the standout performers from the younger divisions.
Kaden Drumm | Quarterback | Class of 2031 | 7v7: Sooner 7 (12U)
Drumm has fluid mechanics for a player at this stage in his development. He has the ability to push the ball outside the numbers on a rope, he sets up in the pocket with excellent posture and he engages his lower half, which enables him to get extra torque on his throws. Drumm has a quick release and he diagnoses coverage well, making the right reads often. Get to know him now.
Neven Davis | Athlete | 7v7: True Buzz (10U)
Davis made plays on both sides of the ball for True Buzz. As a receiver has reliable hands, he runs sharp routes and this enabled him to get open often. His ability to get open allows him to create separation from defenders. He made several big grabs in space and he excels at yards after the catch. Davis is equally dangerous defensively, making several interceptions turned into points for True Buzz.
Meki Hall | Athlete | 7v7: True Buzz (10U)
Hall is a solid defender who has excellent field vision and he has superb ball skills. He had a key interception during pool play, displaying that he has the skill set to break on the ball in flight and he returned it for a pick six. Offensively, he runs crisp routes and he attacks the football at the catch point. Hall is a force on both sides of the ball and his playmaking ability will be key for True Buzz on Crown Sunday.
Seno Tavo | Quarterback | 7v7: True Buzz (10U)
Tavo was on fire from the opening drive for True Buzz during pool play. He has clean mechanics, he has the arm talent to make throws into tight coverage windows and he displayed pinpoint accuracy on the move to either side of the field. Tavo has excellent touch on his deep ball and put points on the board with big chunk plays for True Buzz. Tavo has a stronger arm than most quarterbacks in his age group.
Melo Gilliam | Quarterback | 7v7: The Unit 918 (12U)
Gilliam makes good decisions with the football, he goes through his progressions quickly and his ability to locate the open man was a major reason that his team scored on multiple drives during pool play. He has the arm strength to push the ball downfield and Gilliam can thread the needle into tight coverage windows. As he matures his game will continue to elevate.
Maverick Owens | Athlete | 7v7: CHJ Elite | Twitter: @MaverickOwens
Owens is a plug and play athlete who is a difference maker wherever he lines up. He has the speed and range from the safety position to shut down the backend and he can line up at cornerback and shut down one side of the field. He has elite athleticism, that allowed him to be a big time playmaker on offense and defense. Owens made several highlight reel grabs as a receiver, high pointing the ball, showing that he can climb the ladder and elevate over defenders. This is a prospect who will be one of the top players in Oklahoma on Friday nights in the near future.
Rook McConnell | Athlete | 7v7: Sooner 7
McConnell has great instincts, he plays the passing lanes with a ball hawk mentality in the secondary and he had a game changing pick six for Sooner 7 early on in pool play. He has strong reliable hands and as a receiver he understands how to stack defenders, enabling him to get open often. McConnell will be making plays on Friday Nights in the near future.
