Pros:
Large frame
Another DE where we need help
Great student: Offers from Cornell and Yale, along with of course UVA
Vols offered him last June, so it’s not a last-minute “we need a body” take
While I’m not looking to beat out Vandy for prospects on a regular basis, I think it should be noted that a DL offer from Mason should carry some weight. Maybe not as much as Muschamp with a DB, but along the same lines
2nd VA kid in the class as we try to make inroads there
Analysis from Adam Friedman last June:
1) One team will be very excited when they land a commitment from Thaxton. He is a high potential prospect with an excellent work ethic and is able to quickly pick up what he is taught. Thaxton's technique is a bit raw but he is very active and has good balance”
2) Defensive end Ryan Thaxton has developed into a very good prospect. He’s added a lot of good weight since the end of the season and showed how powerful he can be during the one-on-one session. Thaxton is also more athletic and agile than many players his size. He was able to withstand the initial punches from offensive linemen and did a good job keeping his balance.
Cons:
Not a tremendous offer list other than OM
Likely not a superstar
Would love to get a postseason analysis from @RivalsFriedman
Large frame
Another DE where we need help
Great student: Offers from Cornell and Yale, along with of course UVA
Vols offered him last June, so it’s not a last-minute “we need a body” take
While I’m not looking to beat out Vandy for prospects on a regular basis, I think it should be noted that a DL offer from Mason should carry some weight. Maybe not as much as Muschamp with a DB, but along the same lines
2nd VA kid in the class as we try to make inroads there
Analysis from Adam Friedman last June:
1) One team will be very excited when they land a commitment from Thaxton. He is a high potential prospect with an excellent work ethic and is able to quickly pick up what he is taught. Thaxton's technique is a bit raw but he is very active and has good balance”
2) Defensive end Ryan Thaxton has developed into a very good prospect. He’s added a lot of good weight since the end of the season and showed how powerful he can be during the one-on-one session. Thaxton is also more athletic and agile than many players his size. He was able to withstand the initial punches from offensive linemen and did a good job keeping his balance.
Cons:
Not a tremendous offer list other than OM
Likely not a superstar
Would love to get a postseason analysis from @RivalsFriedman