The NSJFL kicked off its football Jamboree last weekend at Snohomish High School. The league divides the age groups and divisions in the following way: 6/7 (PeeWee), 8/9 (89'er), 10/11 (Junior), 12 (Bantam) and 13 (Senior) As I headed out to watch the teams, my main interests and goals were to look at the Bantam and Seniors that are getting ready for a high school but I also peaked at the Juniors as well.
So what's the first thing I'm looking for as I evaluate athletes? It all starts with athleticism, quickness, explosiveness, an endless amounts of energy and drive. As I was watching the action, there were some kids that stood out above everyone else in their division. These are the kids that immediately caught my eye and dominated the field of play.
JUNIORS:
1. #1 Savian Adams, Snohomish Rec/OLB
This young man caught my eye right off the bat. Savian is fast, great cut back moves, and has great pursuit.
2. Ryder Walsh, Snohomish RB/ILB
A good downhill runner, he's not afraid of contact and he plays physical. At the linebacker position he hits hard plays with an attitude.
3. #36 Jaxxon Morris-Partee , Lake Stevens OL/DL
He's a big kid and when I say big I mean big. Very strong he constantly moves the OL and on Defense he's constantly in the backfield. One thing he needs to work on constantly moving those feet.
BANTAMS:
1. #35 Brayden Graves Marysville, RB, Rec/LB
Brayden was another player that immediately caught my attention. If I had to build a team around anyone it would be this young man. Brayden is probably one of the most complete athletes that I saw at the Jamboree. He's fast, strong, athletic, great moves and knows how to hit. With proper training and progression, he should be ready to play at the JV level as he enters high school, at most smaller schools maybe even varsity.
2. #8 Caleb Riba, Marysville OL/DL
Caleb sparked my interest with his footwork. For a young, big kid he had nice technique constantly moving his feet and working his hands.
3. #24 Logan Huntley, Arlington RB
Logan is a big, muscular young man with a lot of athletic ability. He has good speed but not great speed yet. If he can work on his quickness and be more explosive going through the line, there's no reason why as a freshman he can't play JV or Varsity. (depending on how big he gets). I have a feeling when he gets in high school they may convert him to a linebacker.
4. #10 Cody Lynch, Lake Stevens, Rec
Cody has the same makeup as Brayden Graves. Cody is about 5'10 with very long wingspan and can go up and get the ball. He's pretty muscular so no one can really get physical with him and he's pretty athletic.
SENIORS:
1. #48 Jackson Beckel, Lake Stevens DE
Jackson is the another young man that stood out. I would say Jackson is 5'10 and 155lbs. He can play on both sides of the line protecting the quarterbacks back and in turn rushing the quarterback on defense. He is very athletic, fast and not afraid to mix it up with anyone. He plays youth football for Lake Stevens but he will be attending Snohomish High School next year. The Panthers are gaining a good player! If he was in high school right now he would start on the freshman team. During the off-season I'm going to suggest he get into the weight room.
2. #6 Haydan Villasenor, Lake Stevens RB
I saw a lot of running backs at Jamboree and this young man right here is by far the best. The speed and cut moves he uses are pretty advanced. It's difficult for an incoming freshman to play JV for Lake Stevens but I see him making it if he gets in the weight room and stays dedicated.
3. #2 Victor Sosa, Glacier Peak DE/Rec
Great athletic ability, he's tall, strong and very fast. He's ready right now to play as a freshman. I like everything about this kid. He's going to make a name for himself at the next level.
I'm sure there are other football players that I missed and should be in this article but alas I couldn't be at every game. The players that I've mentioned I will keep a close watch on and see how they develop during the season.
There were 3 teams I wish I had the opportunity to watch last weekend, Arlington & Monroe seniors and Arlington Juniors . I have heard that Monroe has a good team with a pretty decent quarterback. The Arlington juniors have a pretty good left-handed quarterback by the name of Aidan Jones. . I'll make sure to watch these teams play during the season.
If you have someone you would like me to critique to see what they need to work on feel free to reach out and I'll put them on my schedule. Just remember, I can't analyze or give my opinion if he's not on the field. If you have a player that would love to have more playing time and needs some refinement in his game, you are always welcome to contact me as well. I am looking forward to cheering on the local youth and high school teams throughout this season.
I will be posting on Facebook and Instagram which games I will be attending each week and share the highlights here on my blog. I would love for you to follow along with me. If you know anyone that would enjoy this article, please share it!