NFL Scouts Eyeing South Dakota's Secondary as Talent Pipeline Thrives
South Dakota's secondary is drawing significant attention from NFL scouts, and it's easy to see why. Under the guidance of Defensive Backs Coach Miles Taylor, who has been at the helm since 2020, the South Dakota Coyotes have built a formidable unit. Taylor, once a standout player for the Iowa Hawkeyes, has translated his on-field experience into developing exceptional talent on the defensive end.
A Coach’s Touch
Taylor’s influence is most evident in the performances of players like Mike Reid and Dennis Shorter. Reid, a 6-foot-1, 193-pound cornerback, and Shorter, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound safety, have both thrived under Taylor’s tutelage. Their next test comes on September 28, when the Coyotes face Southern Illinois. This matchup will offer scouts another chance to evaluate these promising prospects in a live setting.
One of Taylor’s notable success stories is Myles Harden, a former South Dakota player who took part in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl. Harden’s skills caught the eye of the Cleveland Browns, who selected him in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. His journey from college football to the NFL serves as a testament to Taylor’s ability to prepare his players for the next level.
Talent Across the Country
The spotlight isn't just on South Dakota. Across the football landscape, several players are making waves. In Division III, Jalen Leonard-Osbourne from Ithaca has distinguished himself not only on the football field but also on the track. Leonard-Osbourne clinched the 2022 NCAA Division III national championship in the 60-meter dash with an impressive time of 6.72 seconds and holds Ithaca’s school record in the 100-meter dash at 10.69 seconds. His next game will also take place on September 28, against Curry College.
Meanwhile, Zach Zebrowski from Central Missouri has captured the attention of the football community after winning the highly coveted Harlon Hill Trophy. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, Zebrowski has showcased his elite skills and leadership on the field. He will lead his team into action against Nebraska-Kearney on September 28.
Stars Across North America
In Canada, Brandon Davies-Lyons from York University has also been making headlines. The 6-foot-6, 290-pound lineman participated in the Usports East-West Bowl, showcasing his talent on a major stage. Davies-Lyons, much like his counterparts in the United States, is attracting significant attention as he prepares for his next game against Carleton on September 28.
Conclusion
The upcoming games for Reid, Shorter, Leonard-Osbourne, Zebrowski, and Davies-Lyons will be crucial in solidifying their standings as elite prospects in their respective leagues. As NFL scouts and other professional leagues keenly watch these talents develop, the performances of these young athletes could potentially carve out pathways to illustrious careers in professional football.
The narratives unfolding across these various teams and leagues underscore the universal appeal and competitive spirit of college football. Each player's journey reflects dedication, skill, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, qualities that resonate deeply within the world of sports.