By: Nick Gradney (National Scout) @StatZ_G
29′ WR Drake Craigen is beginning to show why he’s a name worth tracking in his class. With impressive length and long arms, he presents a wide catch radius that quarterbacks appreciate, especially in tight coverage situations. Craigen projects well as an intermediate possession target, consistently finding soft spots in coverage and presenting a reliable option on key downs. What stands out most is his natural feel for getting open. He understands leverage, uses subtle movements at the top of his routes that enable him to get open, and he positions his body well to shield off defenders. Throughout the DR-Houston tournament, he flashed the traits of a potential go-to receiver, showing he can be counted on when the offense needs a steady, chain-moving playmaker.
29′ ATH Evan Jones (@dfwevan2) is the type of explosive playmaker who immediately changes the tempo of a game. Lightning quick with elite top-end speed, Jones is a constant big-play threat whenever he touches the field. His ability to snap off elite breaks out of his routes creates instant separation, leaving defenders grasping at air and struggling to recover. Despite being smaller in stature, he plays with a fearless edge and competitive toughness that allows him to play bigger than his frame suggests. Jones is a true matchup nightmare. He’s too fast for linebackers, too sudden for many defensive backs, and his versatility allows him to impact the game in multiple ways. Simply put, when he’s in space, defenses are in trouble. Keep an eye out for this kid.
29′ QB Carson Bolender carries a familiar last name in The Woodlands area, as the younger brother of The Woodlands alum Jackson Bolender, who most recently attended the University of Utah. Carson is beginning to make his own path, showcasing a promising future at the position. With a prototype build and solid mechanics, he already looks the part of a young quarterback with upside. Bolender can really spin the football, showing a natural ability to generate velocity while maintaining touch, particularly on the deep ball where he throws with confidence and good trajectory. As he continues to stack reps and gain live-game experience, there’s clear room for growth. The more comfortable he becomes within the offense, the more you can see his potential to truly come into his own.
27′ WR Detrick Davis is a dynamic offensive weapon who consistently stresses defenses with his explosiveness. Armed with great speed and high end acceleration, Davis is a constant vertical threat capable of flipping field position in a single play. His hands are reliable and strong, allowing him to secure catches cleanly in stride and finish through contact. What truly elevates his game is his elite separation ability. He uses sharp footwork, quick hips, and polished route tempo to create space at all three levels of the field. Whether stretching the defense deep or breaking free underneath, he brings undeniable big-play ability every time he lines up, making him a matchup problem for opposing secondaries.
14U MVP Malcolm McGee proved he was one of the most impactful athletes on the field at DR7-Houston, playing a major role in helping YCA capture the 14U championship. A true two-way standout, McGee excelled at both wide receiver and defensive back, showing the versatility and competitive edge that separate playmakers from the rest. Offensively, he made timely catches and explosive plays that shifted momentum, while defensively he locked in on assignments, broke on the ball with confidence, and created key stops. His ability to impact the game in multiple phases speaks to his football IQ and athleticism. When the lights were brightest, McGee delivered, and that’s exactly what you expect from an MVP.
12U MVP quarterback Maverick Poche showcased advanced talent well beyond his age, commanding the offense with confidence and precision. Possessing a strong arm for a young signal-caller, Poche consistently drove the football with impressive velocity, delivering throws that cut cleanly through coverage. The ball comes off his hand like it’s on a string, showing tight spin and controlled trajectory whether he’s attacking short routes or stretching the field. What truly separated him throughout the tournament was his accuracy. He consistently placed the ball in stride, allowing his playmakers to maximize yards after the catch. For a 12U quarterback, Poche’s arm talent and command of the offense signal a very bright future ahead.
32′ WR Terrance “TJ” Sweeney II was arguably the most dominant player at the DR7-Houston tournament, delivering big play after big play when it mattered most. With a tall, big frame and the physical tools that immediately stand out, Sweeney consistently overwhelmed defenders and controlled the game from the outside. He made multiple ESPN-worthy catches, high-pointing the football, finishing through contact, and coming down with momentum-shifting grabs that electrified the crowd. Beyond the highlight plays, his presence alone forced defenses to adjust coverage, opening opportunities for his teammates. With his size, playmaking ability, and clutch performance on a big stage, Sweeney has all the makings of a future 5-star recruit. He was one of two MVP’s of the 12U bracket.
