Virginia Tech’s defense for 2013 just got a boost. Bethel grad and Hokie defensive end James Gayle has announced that he’s returning for his senior season. There was some discussion of Gayle making himself available for the NFL draft, but it’s believed that more seasoning will allow him to increase his draft stock.
MaxPreps picked up on yet another 757 product when they select Norfolk Christian Lineman Mike Carney as a Freshman All-American. We have lots of great talent here in the region, yet it was Carney’s contributions on the offensive line in the Ambassadors’ 6-3 season that earned him a selection.
Princess Anne linebacker Aaron Glover went down to San Antonio last week with the plan to increase his recruiting stock. With his performance, he managed to do just that.
Virginia Beach quarterback Tyler DeSue got his opportunity to showcase in the Junior Rank Junior All-American game last week. DeSue played out of position, but still managed to win the Offensive MVP Award in the 13 and Under Game that took place in Carson, California.
At a Wednesday afternoon press conference, Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd announced that he would stay at the university for his senior season, forgoing an opportunity to enter the NFL draft. The 2010 Phoebus grad broke the ACC record for touchdown passes and the Clemson record for total offensive yardage in 2012, making him one of the most prolific quarterbacks in the history of the school.
Bruton running back and linebacker Kapri Doucet has been the pride of the Bay Rivers District for almost three years now. He was an All-District defender as a freshman and has continued to rise from there. Doucet had a solid performance at the Army All-American combine, which will only help to increase his stock with college coaches.
Landstown linebacker Isaiah Martin found an opportunity for a little extra postseason work. Or should it be said that Junior Rank found him? The Landstown junior had a successful showing at May’s Diamond Flight Camp, and that earned him a chance to showcase at the Proving Ground National Combine in L.A. late last week.
There’s nothing like getting national recognition. Not only is Bayside WR/S Quin Blanding playing in next year’s Army All-American Game, he was also named to Max Prep’s Junior All-American team yesterday. Blanding was picked as a First Team defensive back by the writers of MaxPreps.
Chris Beatty will soon be on to his next coaching stop. The man known for coaching Percy Harvin through his high school years at Landstown High School did not have his contract renewed by Illinois Head Coach Tim Beckman, according to information released by the university over the weekend.
Bayside running back Taquan “Smoke” Mizzell is an All-American. Mizzell was selected as one of the best in the nation and wore his #4, playing slot receiver and return man for the East squad.