By: Nick Gradney (National Scout) @StatZ_G
ATH – Blake Washington was the most impressive kid in the bracket. He has an athletic frame with long arms. Washington didn’t just play both sides. He dominated both sides. He picked off several passes throughout the weekend and scored on both offense and defense. Offensively, he lined up outside as the X receiver mostly. This kid has versatility in his route running, and his release off the line of scrimmage in press coverage was incredible. Don’t be surprised if he skips 15U next year and goes straight to 18U because he’s that good.
ATH – Ladarian Adams (@ladarian011) is a really good player who had an outstanding outing at DR7 – Orlando. Adams plays both sides but makes his mark on the defensive side of the ball. He can man up against opposing teams’ best receivers and eliminate one area of the field. Ladarian is a big athlete with a solid build and will only grow, which is scary. He’s fluid, has good feet, and is a true playmaker. Keep your eyes on this young star on the rise.
QB – Knox Timony is a dime dropper. This kid showed tremendous poise and actually went through his 3-5-7 yard drops, so you can tell he’s being properly developed. Timony has a strong enough arm to make every throw. His ball placement and mechanics are what stand out the most. He was very consistent during the entire tournament. He’s a slim kid with length but will naturally grow into his body. I’m excited to see this young baller progress over the next few years.
WR – Semaj Walker (@ykcautioncbfw) looks the part and plays it even better. Walker creates separation with his slight twitch and long strides. If you look at him, you may think he’s a tight end from his build, but his wide receiver skills are undeniable. He can catch contested receptions in traffic and move the chains with underneath routes. He makes it look too easy. Expect to hear his name much more in the near future.
TE – Beck Pinnick was spectacular during the DR7 – Orlando tournament. He’s a big tight end who uses his body to seal defenders off to his advantage. He attacks the ball at the point of attack really well. He dominated on drag routes, crossers, and digs. Pinnick and his quarterback were on the same page the majority of the time, and he understood how to sit in tight windows and wait for the ball to be delivered. Those are small nuances that make great tight ends.
WR – Conner Johnson (@2havinnx) put on a show and had one of the best performances I’ve seen thus far. Conner came up clutch every time his team needed him to make a play. Catching in traffic seemed like it was nothing new to him. He has good speed, agility, and possesses the ability to just get open every single time. There was nothing the defense could do to stop him. No matter where he lined up or what the route concept was, he was the go-to guy. This kid has a bright future.
WR – Kingston Smith (@primetimeks3) just jumps off the screen. He’s smaller in stature, but his talent is major. Kingston was a menace on the field – making timely catches and, more importantly, being reliable in the redzone. He is quick, agile, and has elite separation skills to go along with really good hands. Big time make big time plays, and that couldn’t be more true when it comes to this young man.
QB – Jehan Price (@JP312__) is an up and coming player to know. This kid has a cannon for an arm. He throws one of the best deep balls I’ve seen this weekend. He has a really good pocket presence and can deliver strikes anywhere on the field. His consistency was unmatched. He has nice measurables for a young quarterback and can scan the field really well. I’m interested in seeing his growth. He trains very well and works on his craft often.
