Evaluation
Leo has a next-level size and frame, with ample room to add more mass in college. He has long arms and a long stride, showcasing speed and agility with explosiveness when making tackles for losses in the backfield or covering sideline to sideline. He is a solid run stopper and a good open-field tackler, excelling against both the pass and the run. His technique and footwork at both the middle linebacker and outside linebacker positions are proficient, though there is still room for improvement.Leo does a good job of keeping his shoulders square to the line of scrimmage, moving well left or right, filling gaps, and demonstrating quick-twitch ability with a fast break on run plays to prevent long yardage gains. He can make tackles for losses and track down runners with his athleticism. However, many routine plays were observed on film. Leo must show college coaches that he can dominate every play this season, create turnovers, and bring a more physical presence to the field with bigger hits on ball carriers. I would like to see him create more turnovers through forced fumbles (FF), fumble recoveries (FR), and interceptions (INTs). More domination is needed, along with a higher motor and quicker pursuit of the football. Currently, the projection is to the lower levels of college football. However, with a more aggressive playing style and increased turnover creation, along with improvements in technique and block shedding, Leo could elevate his recruitment to the Division I level.
Positives / Attributes
- Tall lengthy frame, long arms.
- Has the speed & agility to cover sideline to sideline.
- Plays well vs the pass. Technique and footwork is sound with backpedal, watching QB’s eyes.
- Stop runs from progressing and long yardage gains.
- Solid open field tackler.
Neg./ Areas of Improvement
- Can shed blockers better with more technique and a heavier-handed punch to OL’s.
- No created turnovers on film, needs to come up with INT’s, FF, and FR next season.
- A lot of routine plays on Hudl film, can eliminate some and trim down film time (Junior Season).
- Would like to see more of a physical nature in tackling next season. Really, layout ball carriers. Create turnovers and more impressive plays on film.
