Gators' Elijah Young Seeks Redemption After ACL Injury
At 6-foot-3, 220 pounds, Elijah Young will be a force to be reckoned with on the edge for the Lakewood Gators this season. The Class of 2027 defensive end recorded 12 tackles for loss as a sophomore, but a torn ACL in the offseason put his starting role in jeopardy. Young has worked tirelessly to regain his strength and mobility, and his efforts have paid off. He is now firmly entrenched as the Gators' top pass rusher. Young's athleticism and technique make him a nightmare for opposing tackles to block. He has the potential to be a dominant force in the SCHSL 4A, and college scouts are taking notice. What scouts are watching for is how Young adapts to the increased speed and physicality of the 4A level, and whether he can maintain his production over the course of a full season. With his talent and work ethic, Young is poised to make a name for himself as one of the top defensive players in the state.