By Platform Scout: Marc Henry @marchen44
The “Under The Center Series” will highlight quarterbacks who have standout performances on the DR7 Road To Crown, showcasing their pivotal roles in leading their teams to success. The Road To The Crown Davenport showcased some top-tier quarterback talent, that will be making headlines on Friday nights in the Sunshine State. These quarterbacks showcased exceptional skill, resilience, and determination. From clutch throws to strategic decision-making, these quarterbacks demonstrated a combination of athleticism and mental toughness that set them apart on the field. Their performances not only contributed to their team’s success but also turned heads in a competitive environment. The mission and goal of The Platform is to #ExposeTheUnexposed and provide adequate coverage of athletes around the country giving them exposure. We will discuss several standout performances from signal callers who should be on the radar of college programs this offseason.
Brandon Royal | Class of 2024 | Sickles High School | 7v7: Team Elite
Brandon Royal’s outstanding weekend performance speaks volumes about his exceptional talent and potential as a quarterback. With a big arm, solid base, and clean footwork, he possesses the foundational skills necessary to excel in the position. His ability to throw accurately on the move adds versatility to his game, allowing him to extend plays and keep defenses off balance. Moreover, his proficiency in making all the throws on the route tree demonstrates his versatility and adaptability within different offensive schemes.
His quick release and ability to make swift decisions under pressure highlight his mental acuity and poise on the field, crucial traits for success at the collegiate level. Committing to Maryville College signifies his dedication to furthering his academic and athletic career, and it’s clear that he has the potential to make a significant impact at the next level. With his impressive skill set, Brandon Royal is undoubtedly a prospect to watch as he continues to develop.
Jaden Weatherly | Class of 2026 | Bartram Trail High School | 7v7 : St. John’s Cobras
Jaden Weatherly’s standout performance at the Road To The Crown in Davenport highlights his potential as a top-tier signal caller. With a strong arm and the ability to make all the throws on the route tree, he possesses the fundamental skills necessary to succeed at the quarterback position. His strong, stout build and strength enable him to push the ball deep with accuracy, allowing him to challenge defenses vertically and create big-play opportunities for his team.
Weatherly’s ability to make big throws consistently throughout the weekend demonstrates his poise and clutch playmaking ability under pressure. Leading the St. John’s Cobras to the semifinals in the 18U division further showcases his impact and leadership on the field and he is rising sophomore flying under the radar. Bucknell has offered Jaden this offseason but expect his recruiting stock to rise as he continues to perform at a high level at camps and 7v7 tournaments heading into the fall season in 2024.
With his impressive physical attributes and performance on the field, Jaden Weatherly has the makeup of a next-level signal caller. As he continues to develop and gain experience, he has the potential to emerge as a highly sought-after prospect in the coming years. Keep an eye on Weatherly as he continues to showcase his talents.
Michael Clayton II | Class of 2026 | Sanford High School | 7v7: Sanford Elite
Michael Clayton II’s performance in Davenport undoubtedly solidified his standing as one of the top passers in the talent-rich state of Florida. With supreme arm talent and a strong, stout build, he possesses the physical tools necessary to excel at the quarterback position. His ability to make every throw on the route tree showcases his versatility and completeness as a passer, while his superb accuracy ensures that he can deliver the ball with precision to his receivers.
Clayton II’s excellent touch on the deep ball adds another dimension to his game, allowing him to capitalize on vertical routes and stretch opposing defenses effectively. Additionally, his ability to spin the ball demonstrates his natural throwing ability and mastery of the quarterback craft. With a skill set that college programs value highly, Clayton has garnered double-digit offers from prestigious programs such as Miami, Arkansas, Virginia Tech, Ole Miss, Pittsburgh, Marshall, and Illinois.
His impressive offer sheet reflects the widespread recognition of his talent and potential at the collegiate level. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, Michael Clayton II is poised to make a significant impact on the field for whichever program he chooses to commit to. With his combination of physical gifts, technical proficiency, and competitive drive, Clayton has the makings of a standout quarterback at the next level and beyond.
Christian Sims | Class of 2025 | Lincoln High School | 7v7: Too Trill
Christian Sims’ performance at the Road To The Crown in Davenport showcased his exceptional talent and potential as a quarterback. His calm demeanor and ability to play under control indicate maturity and poise beyond his years, crucial qualities for success at the position. With superb arm talent and the ability to make every throw on the route tree, Sims poses a significant threat to opposing defenses and can attack all areas of the field effectively.
His superb field vision allows him to read defenses and make quick decisions, while his quick release and clean footwork ensure efficient and accurate passing mechanics. Sims’ ability to throw his receivers open demonstrates his anticipation and timing, creating opportunities for big plays downfield. His superb touch on the deep ball adds another dimension to his game, allowing him to capitalize on vertical routes and stretch the defense.
Leading Too Trill to the championship game in Davenport and performing at a high level throughout the weekend speaks volumes about Sims’ impact on the field. With offers from Albany and Central Michigan, his profile is likely to rise on the recruiting trail as coaches recognize his talent and potential. Christian Sims has all the tools to succeed at the collegiate level, making him an exciting prospect to watch as he continues to develop and showcase his skills.
Carter Emanuel | Class of 2026 | Edgewater High School | 7v7: Certified Dawgs
Carter Emanuel certainly embodies the traits of an elite quarterback, with a combination of physical attributes and skills that set him apart. His compact, stout build suggests durability and strength, essential for withstanding the physical demands of the position. With a big arm capable of pushing the ball outside the numbers on a rope, Emanuel poses a deep threat to opposing defenses and can stretch the field effectively.
His quick release and the ball’s explosive velocity displays his excellent mechanics and throwing technique, allowing him to deliver passes with precision and timing. Emanuel’s great footwork and ability to engage his hips and core to generate torque further enhance his throwing power and accuracy.
Earning offers from programs such as Liberty, Arkansas, Florida A&M, and Central Florida shows his talent and potential at the collegiate level. With his impressive skill set and collegiate interest, Carter Emanuel left no doubt that he is one of the top signal callers in his class.
Grant Conner | Class of 2025 | Winter Park High School | 7v7: Gridiron Elite
Grant Conner’s performance in Davenport undoubtedly left a lasting impression, showcasing his elite arm talent and ability to make plays on the field. With a lean build and tall stature at 6’4, he possesses the physical attributes necessary to excel at the quarterback position. His clean pocket footwork allows him to deliver accurate throws even into small passing windows.
Conner’s strong arm and pinpoint accuracy outside the numbers highlight his ability to stretch the field and challenge opposing defenses vertically. Additionally, his great touch on deep passes adds another dimension to his game, making him a threat at all levels of the field. Combined with his exceptional field vision, Conner demonstrates the ability to read defenses and make quick decisions, crucial skills for success as a quarterback.
Grant plays with a swagger on the field, qualities that elevate his performance and inspire his teammates. As a rising junior flying under the radar, Conner has the opportunity to continue developing his skills and garner attention from collegiate programs. With his impressive skill set and potential, he certainly has the capability to play at the next level and make a significant impact in the future.
Noah Grubbs | Class of 2026 | Lake Mary High School | 7v7: Gridiron Elite
Noah Grubbs is an exceptional talent at the quarterback position, with a skill set that sets him apart. His ability to spin the ball and generate velocity speaks to his natural throwing ability and arm strength, which allows him to make tight-window throws with precision. Coupled with his excellent field vision, a quick release and superb mechanics, Grubbs possesses the fundamental attributes of a top-tier quarterback prospect.
His lean, stout, athletic build suggests that he has the physical tools to withstand the rigors of playing the position at a high level. Grubbs is rated as the top quarterback recruit in the class of 2026, has double-digit offers from college programs such as Colorado, Arkansas, Miami, Michigan and Florida.
Grubbs’ leadership and contributions to Gridiron Elite’s success in winning The Crown in the 18U division further solidifies his standing as a difference-maker on the field. Noah left no doubt that he is one of the top passers in the country after his stellar weekend in Davenport.
