Ok, What Gives?

Rickey Simpson, a 6-3, 215-pound, DE/OLB from Aurora (Ill.) Waubonsie Valley (2010), doesn't have ONE SCHOLARSHIP OFFER? Ok, what gives? Is it grades? Character? Doubt it. The Rickey Simpson that I know is as polite a young man that I've met in all my years in the business.

So what it is it? Can't be talent. Simpson was dominant in a 25-17 loss to Naperville Central. A loss that would've been a win against one of Illinois' perennial top programs. I saw a win because Waubonsie dropped two sure touchdown passes.

Simpson, being recruited as a linebacker and rush end, caused havoc all day long. When their was a big play to be made, #35 was their for the Warriors. Sacks, batted balls, big hits...and I mean big hits. Hits you could here on the top of the press box! Rickey Simpson was their.

Surely their has to be a scholarship out there for a guy who can run, hit, defend, sack the quarterback and make big plays.

My Scouting Report:

Is Simpson an outside backer or a rush end? He'll need to put on some weight to play DE but he has the speed to play linebacker.

• Excels as a pass rusher
• Disruptive
• Explodes off the ball
• Knack for making the big play
• Plays with leverage
• Speed to turn the corner-Big Burst to the football
  

Needs to work on:

• Will over pursue at times
• Playing the run better
• Needs to use his hands better

Overall:

Big Ten type prospect that would be a steal at the MAC level. Great drive to be the best and very coac able. Will excel in the right system.

We filmed Waubonsie's game yesterday vs. Naperville Central. NPN customers can view this game by logging onto the network. If you're not a client, contact me at chris@nationalprepnetwork.com and I'd be happy to discuss options to become part of the NPN family.