FIVE ON THE RISE takes a look at five players who have seen their stock rise in the off-season and as we head into the 2022 football season.
Cam Sutton, TE, Lexington 6’3, 230, Class of 2024
Sutton is a rising junior that has film that just shouts out Division I talent. He’s got good hands and can be used in short passing game as a possession receiver but his blocking is second to none in the Midlands. He’s explosive and wins the first step every time and plays violent with his hands. He holds his blocks well and is only going to get bigger and stronger. This is a kid that could develop into a tackle prospect and with his athleticism, would be a great prospect. But right now, he is a tight end/H-back and one of the best in the MIdlands.
Kanaan Ligons, OL/DL, Ridge Spring-Monetta, 6’2, 297, Class of 2023
Ligons plays both sides of the ball equally well. Last season, he collected 54 total tackles, 4 tackles for loss, four sacksand two forced fumbles. He’s got quick feet and is strong as a bull. He’s an excellent offensive lineman as well. He was an All-Region and All-State selection. I think he could play guard at a high level and would be an excellent run-gap stuffer.
Nate Butler, CB, Sumter, 6’1,175, Class of 2023
Butler has had a good off season with camps and landed his first offer this past week. He’s good in runs suppot and has good closing speed, coverin a lot of ground. Last season he had 29 tackles, 3 for loss, and 3 interceptions.
Riley Staton, QB, Gray Collegiate, 6’4 195, Class of 2024
One of the top quarterbacks in the MIdlands regardless of class, Staton started the last six games of 2021 and passed for 917 yards and 9 touchdowns, leading the War Eagles to their first ever 2A State Football Championship. This off season he has worked out for several schools and is seeing his recrujiting get hot and I think it is about to blow up.
DeAndre Simmons, QB, Orangeburg-Wilkinson, 6’3, 205, Class of 2024
Simmons is stepping into a rold at OW and learning quickly. He’s got good feet and a strong arm. I’ve seen video of his workouts this off-season and he can flat spin the football. He’s got great speed and the ability to extend plays. 2022 will be cruicial for him but if he can get the cerebral side of the game down, he will see his stock soar this football season.
