In the world of high school football, certain players often shine brightly, drawing attention from scouts and college recruiters alike. However, there exists a group of talented young athletes who, despite their impressive performances, remain under the radar. As we look ahead to the 2025 season, it’s essential to spotlight these offensive linemen who have shown great potential but have yet to receive the recognition they deserve. We delve into the profiles of these promising players, their skills, and what makes them stand out as they prepare for their senior year.

John Como, 6’5″ 300 lbs, Pieper High School

John Como has been making a name for himself with his impressive physicality and technique on the field. His ability to bend at the hips and knees allows him to generate significant power when engaging defenders.

• Strengths:
  • Exceptional anchor against bull rushes.
  • Aggressive puller with a knack for finishing blocks.
  • Displays a fierce competitive edge that is hard to teach.

I am blessed and honored to be named 1st Team all district O-Line. @Coachbrycemac @CoachBoothMatt pic.twitter.com/QZrwk8QaK7

— John Como (@JohnComo12) December 29, 2024

Como’s combination of size and skill makes him an intriguing prospect for college programs looking for a reliable interior lineman.

Drew Deason, 6’4″ 255 lbs, Hebron High School

Drew Deason is another player who has caught the attention of scouts. His raw upper body strength and determination set him apart from his peers.

• Strengths:
  • Strong hand placement and footwork.
  • Can displace defenders effectively.
  • Shows flexibility and toughness throughout plays.

Deason’s ability to fight through the whistle and maintain leverage gives him an advantage in one-on-one situations.

https://t.co/KDYahv8Xdm
Junior Season?@HebronFootball @CoachTowels @TERRANCEORRII @CoachRobo55 @CoachTimmyG @FiveStrongOLine @CoachOrtizOL

— Drew Deason (@deasondrew72) December 9, 2024

Clay Mitchell, 6’5″ 275 lbs, Sinton High School

Clay Mitchell has been making strides in his development, demonstrating a strong foundation in blocking techniques. His agility and quick decision-making make him a valuable asset on the field.

• Strengths:
  • Proficient at driving defenders off the ball.
  • Quick to recognize and react to inside blitzes.
  • Technically sound with a solid frame.

Mitchell’s athleticism and versatility position him well for a successful senior season.

Proud to represent 4A DII District 15 once again with being named the Offensive Lineman Of The Year for the second year in a row. @SintonFootball @CoachMTroutman @Coach_TPreston @SandersDavis225 @ClayMcGuireTTU @COACHFOAUH @K_Price73 pic.twitter.com/Th3fKlBYvB

— Clay mitchell (@ClayMitchell77) December 13, 2024

Hunter McKinney, 6’4″ 300 lbs, Clear Lake High School

Hunter McKinney brings a unique blend of aggression and technique to the offensive line. His ability to engage defenders with force and redirect them makes him a formidable presence on the field.

• Strengths:
  • Strong at the point of attack.
  • Excellent lateral movement in pass protection.
  • Capable of adapting to different blocking schemes.

McKinney’s tenacity and skill set make him a player to watch as he continues to develop.

Check out Hunter’s profile with us, click here.

Factors Contributing to Under-the-Radar Status

Lack of Exposure

Exposure plays a significant role in a player’s recruitment journey. Many talented athletes may not have had the opportunity to showcase their skills at high-profile camps or tournaments, leading to their under-the-radar status.

• Strategies for Gaining Exposure:
  • Participating in offseason camps and showcases.
  • Engaging with coaches and recruiters through social media.
  • Highlighting performances through game footage.

Learn more how we can help your recruiting with one of our profiles or our evaluations.

Competition for Attention

The competition among high school players is fierce, with numerous athletes vying for the attention of college scouts. As a result, some deserving players may be overshadowed by more prominent names.

The Path Forward: Gaining Recognition

Building a Strong Senior Campaign

For these under-the-radar offensive linemen, a successful senior season can be pivotal in gaining recognition from college programs. This includes:

• Consistent Performance: Demonstrating reliability and skill in every game.
• Leadership Qualities: Taking on a leadership role within the team can highlight their character and work ethic.
• Continued Development: Committing to strength and conditioning programs to improve their physical attributes.

Engaging with College Programs

As players begin to attract attention, proactive engagement with college programs can enhance their recruitment prospects. This may include:

• Direct Communication: Reaching out to coaches and expressing interest in their programs.
• Attending College Camps: Participating in camps hosted by colleges to showcase skills in front of coaches.
• Networking: Leveraging connections with former players or coaches to gain insights into the recruitment process.

The Role of Social Media in Recruitment

Leveraging Online Platforms

In today’s digital age, social media has become a powerful tool for athletes looking to gain exposure. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok offer players the opportunity to showcase their skills and connect with recruiters.

• Content Strategies:
  • Posting highlight reels and training videos.
  • Engaging with college coaches and programs.
  • Sharing updates on performances and achievements.

Learn more how we can help your recruiting with one of our profiles or our evaluations.

Building a Personal Brand

Establishing a personal brand can significantly impact a player’s recruitment journey. This involves:

• Consistency: Regularly updating followers with relevant content.
• Authenticity: Being genuine in interactions and showcasing personality.
• Professionalism: Maintaining a respectful and positive online presence.

The Importance of Offseason Development

Strength and Conditioning

The offseason is a critical time for players to enhance their physical attributes. Focusing on strength and conditioning can lead to significant improvements in performance.

• Key Areas of Focus:
  • Building core strength for better stability and balance.
  • Enhancing agility and footwork through targeted drills.
  • Developing endurance to maintain performance throughout games.

Skill Development

In addition to physical training, honing specific skills is vital for offensive linemen. This can include:

• Technique Refinement: Working on blocking techniques and hand placement.
• Film Study: Analyzing game footage to identify areas for improvement.
• Position-Specific Drills: Engaging in drills that simulate game situations to enhance reaction times.

As we look ahead to the 2026 season, it’s essential to keep an eye on these promising offensive linemen. Their hard work, dedication, and talent could soon propel them into the spotlight, showcasing the importance of recognizing and nurturing emerging talent in high school football. By focusing on their development and seizing opportunities for exposure, these players are well on their way to achieving their dreams of playing at the next level.

(players mentioned credit prepredzone.com )