The departure of numerous significant players, including All-Area Defensive Player of the Year, Riley Van Poppel, has led to a major reshuffling in the ranks of Denton-area high school football defensive linemen. Despite these considerable losses, the upcoming season anticipates a surge of high-performing talents ready to step up and leave their marks on the field.
Ranking The Rising Stars
While many worthy talents deserve mention, such as Xavier Ukponu from Guyer and Errol West from Ryan, our focus today will be on the top five linemen who are likely to make significant impacts in the forthcoming season.
1. Pelumi Olanipekun, Guyer, Sr.
Returning after a powerful junior season, Olanipekun made a strong impression with 74 total tackles, 17 tackles for a loss, and six sacks. As a key returner, Olanipekun is expected to continue his dominance in the Wildcats’ defensive line.
2. Xavier McCoy, Aubrey, Sr.
As one of the few returners in Aubrey’s defense, McCoy will be crucial this season. Last year, he racked up 49 total tackles, 24 tackles for a loss, and three sacks. He also played a part in leading Aubrey to the playoffs for the third consecutive year.
3. Trey Bates, Ryan, Sr.
Bates is a consistent performer who notched 59 total tackles, six tackles for a loss, and two sacks last season. His excellent performance on the field has garnered him scholarship offers from multiple schools.
4. Iyiolaoluwa Solomi, Braswell, Sr.
Last season saw Solomi rise as a critical part of the Bengals’ defense, with 42 total tackles, seven tackles for a loss, and five sacks. His impressive performance earned him a scholarship offer from Norfolk State, and a promising senior year awaits him.
5. Noah Williams, Krum, Sr.
Williams is coming off a stellar junior season with 106 total stops, five tackles for a loss, three sacks, and a fumble recovery. With key departures on both sides of the ball, he is primed for a significant role this season.
Conclusion
The new season promises to be exciting with these talented Denton-area high school football defensive linemen ready to step up and prove their worth. Despite the departure of many key contributors, the football future of the Denton-area high school teams remains bright with players like Williams, Solomi, Bates, McCoy, and Olanipekun. Fans will undoubtedly have a lot to look forward to as these athletes dominate the field.
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