At this point in the process, a lot of the cream has risen to the top as it relates to the recruiting game. Most big-time programs have their prospect boards pretty much solidified. Top 100 and 250 lists have started to become a little more clearer. While names will still rise and fall in the rankings, we have a much better idea of who is legit (and who is not) following the spring/summer camp circuit.
But that doesn't mean names aren't still being overlooked, and those are the stories which interest me the most between now and National Signing Day. Who are the prospects that everyone should be talking about, but aren't?
The first example I'll submit: Goodyear (Ariz.) Desert Edge LB/TE Ismael Murphy-Richardson.
Murphy-Richardson is listed at 6-4, 215 pounds, and looks the part on film. He claims a number of big-time offers (Arizona, Arizona State, Florida, Oklahoma, Tennessee, UCLA, USC and Washington among them.) But has generally been overlooked by the recruiting services (none have him rated more than three-stars at the moment.) This is a mistake.
Looking over his highlight film, Murphy-Richardson has the type of high-upside skill-set that makes a player of his caliber attractive to colleges. He is comfortable and athletic playing in space. At the very least, playing a 3-4 OLB position is in the cards, and I'm not sure he wouldn't be a fit as a 4-3 OLB as well. Growing into a weakside end in a 4-3 also looks to be a possibility, as the pass-rushing ability is there and can be honed and improved in time, although Murphy-Richardson will need to add some weight.
Over on offense, this guy looks like a big outside receiver. His body control is excellent, and he's a very impressive all-around athlete. With the mindset he carries over from defense, obviously blocking is not an issue for him. Growing into more of a flex, receiving-minded tight end would seem to be well within the realm of possibility as well.
After recording over 700 yards and 11 scores a season ago (while averaging more than 23 yards a reception), plus 68 tackles, five sacks and a pair of interceptions on defense, I'm intrigued to see what Murphy-Richardson does for an encore. His size, athleticism and versatility make him a top-250 prospect, in my mind. Now I'm curious to see how long it takes the recruiting services to notice as well.
No YouTube video for highlights, but if you want to see more of Ismael Murphy-Richardson, check here.
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