Frostproof continuously grows athletes on trees. Not really, but it seems that way. Along with their stud 2015 middle linebacker, crafty twin athletes, interesting running back and high profile 2016 QB, Travis Lawton is the name that will rise on many recruiting boards.

Travis Lawton, Frostproof 2015 (6-3/220) Defensive End is a monster. He does a number of things extremely well on the field, but I will break down the top 4:

1. GET OFF – Lawton anticipates the snaps count and at times, beats the offensive linemen out of their stance. He also has a powerful first step that that allows him to get leverage on the opposing blocker. Currently, Scott Patchan (Freedom 2015 DE) has the best take off in the BCP coverage area. Lawton would not be far behind.

2. PURSUIT – To be an effective defensive end, players should be able to neutralize the run or cause disruption to the play side and squeeze, track down the play from the backside. Check mark that box for Lawton. He is very agile, can change direction and his speed and athleticism allows him to run down ball carriers like a hunting Tiger. Effort, ability and attitude is easy to see on his film.

3. RECOGNITION – Many defensive lineman can run after the ball and make a tackle. But the ones that can recognize the play, while in motion, accelerate or retract and change directions are the players who become headaches for opposing offensive coordinators. Lawton does a great job disengaging with blockers and getting to the ball without wasting time trying to figure out the play. He recognizes what is going on in the backfield, which allows him to make many plays behind the line of scrimmage.

4. NEUTRALIZATION – Lawton does a good job using his lower and upper body strength to leverage blockers and hold his ground versus larger offensive linemen.