Top 5 Defensive Players in the DFW Area
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Updated: August 2, 2014
#5 Jamile Johnson Jr, DB, South Oak Cliff, 6’1, 195
It’s hard to stand out on a team loaded with Division I talent, which may be the reason Johnson is overlooked by some. Johnson uses his size, rather than speed, to make plays on the defensive end. As a junior, on a loaded South Oak Cliff team that lost in the Regional round, Johnson made 79 tackles and two interceptions. Johnson accepted a scholarship to play at Oklahoma in February of this year.
#4 DeShon Elliott, DB, Rockwall-Heath, 6’2, 205
Another large defensive back Elliott relies more on his athleticism rather than his ball skills, but he constantly can disrupt plays in the air and in the backfield. Last year Elliott compiled 70 tackles, seven tackles for loss, four sacks, three interception (one returned for a touchdown), and three forced fumbles. Elliott committed to Texas back in March.
#3 James Lockhart, DE, Ennis, 6’2, 253
One of the best defensive ends in the state Lockhart brings a little bit of everything to the table. Some size, a good first step, and athleticism. Lockhart finished his junior season with 122 tackles, 8.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles helping lead Ennis to the state semi-finals. Lockhart very recently committed to Texas A&M and was on the 1st team for the Texas Sports Writers Association and 2nd team for the Associated Press Sports Editors.
#2 Anthony Wheeler, LB, Dallas Skyline, 6’2, 225
Dallas Skyline hasn’t had a shortage of Division I talent recently and Wheeler is no exception. As a junior Wheeler recorded 110 tackles and has been peppered with awards such as 1st Team All-District, Honorable Mention by the APSE, and even received the District 9-5A Newcomer of the Year award last year. While Wheeler is listed as a linebacker his size gives him the versatility to possibly play multiple positions at the next level. While at the high school level he has shown his instincts for the game. Wheeler is undecided on his future, but the offers have started to line up with Oklahoma, Texas, and Alabama leading the way.
#1 Malik Jefferson, LB, Mesquite Poteet, 6’3, 215
Considered to be one of the best players in the nation Jefferson had quite a year last year. While Mesquite Poteet ended their playoff run in the state quarterfinals Jefferson was becoming noticed on the national stage. Jefferson was awarded a 1st team All-State spot by the Associated Press in 2012 after compiling 105 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, and seven sacks. In 2013 Jefferson stats took a step back only recording 83 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, and 12 sacks. He ended up receiving two Honorable Mention votes by the APSE and TSWA. Jefferson is still weighing his options, but Alabama, Baylor, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Texas, and Texas A&M have the best chances to land this sensational player.
by William Russell
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