Today we look at the defensive end. The glory position and “sack-tafied” game changer. The defensive end is a high priority position. One of four actually; 1) The passer (QB) 2) The pass protector (backside OT) 3) The pass rusher (DE) 4) Guy to defend the pass (CB).

All the positions listed above are positions scouts place a high premium on because they can impact the game and game planning for the opponent. Justus Reed, recent Clearwater Central Catholic transfer is today’s subject. He has recently began to pick up lots of recruiting attention. Landing a handful of division 1 verbal scholarship offers and counting.

Let us explain what we look for in dominant, high priority defensive ends with Justus Reed being the example. At the end, there is a bonus video.

Length
First and foremost is length and height. Major college programs recruit offensive tackles who are 6-4 and taller. 6-4 in height with long arms. Take East Lake’s Mason Cole for example. In order to counter that, defensive ends must have length and height also. They must be able to see and react to the play, leverage the offensive tackle and combat double teams. The taller the better.

Run Stopper
The 3rd clip of the hilite video speaks volumes. You will see Reed stay low, penetrate the line, take on the lead blocker and make the tackle in the backfield.

Pass Rush
We would like to see a variety of pass rush moves from players. Reed is partial to the speed rush which he uses extremely well. He has a natural lean and dip to get under the tackle and come clean to rush the passer. He also mixes in a nice bull rush to display power.

At the snap
The very first clip of the film, you will see Reed show an explosive take off to get a jump on the snap and blow past the offensive tackle. As he redirects, he shows good footwork and change of direction.

Speed
At the 1:03 mark, Reed fires past the whole offensive line to disrupt the play in the backfield.

Pursuit
Defensive ends must be able to hold their edge and engage in backside pursuit when necessary. The 1:15 mark is just an awesome disciplined football play. Reed stays home on the play fake, reads the play and then pursues the ball carrier from the back side to make the tackle just a few yards upfield. BIG TIME!

Tackling
Lots of examples throughout the film. However, the :33 second mark is perfect. Reed is a text book, violent tackler. Oh, and check out the :50 mark also.

Read and React
Over and over again, you see Reed decipher the play and react quickly. He sees blocks coming, reacts and allows his instincts to take over. Finds and gets to the ball!

Leverage
At the :38 second mark and the play following, you can see Reed handle the one-on-ones blocks. Holding his ground, using length to keep the tackle at bay and then shedding the offender to get to the ball.  3:11 mark, he fights off a double-team and an additional third blocker and still makes the tackle.

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Now we look a player who has a ton of offers and is ranked by many scouting services as one of the top in the state and nationally.