Coaches' Eye View: What DE Prospects Need to Bring to Junior Day Visits
For defensive end prospects at 6A programs like La Cueva Bears, junior day visits are a crucial opportunity to showcase skills and secure college recruitment. Coaches look for prospects who demonstrate a strong work ethic, quickness off the edge, and ability to bend around the corner. To stand out, DEs should focus on explosive acceleration, showcasing the ability to accelerate from 0-20 mph in 2.5 seconds or less. This metric, often measured through 20-yard shuttle drills, is a key indicator of a prospect's ability to chase down ballcarriers. Additionally, coaches value prospects who can demonstrate a variety of pass rush moves, such as the speed rush, counter move, and swim move. DEs should come prepared to demonstrate these skills and answer coaching staff's questions about their technique and film.