Power Ranking Top 25 2016 Recruits After The Opening

Senior high school seasons are swiftly approaching for America's premier college football prospects, and this last stretch of summer is a pivotal time to evaluate talent. 

Most recruiting departments already have a solid game plan prepared for the road to national signing day, and offers were already extended to elite playmakers earlier in the process. These top-tier athletes often hold more than 30 scholarship opportunities, and many announced college commitments months—or even years—ago.

Our latest glimpse at this group occurred July 6-10, when Elite 11 finals and The Opening took center stage at Nike's world headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon. Based on in-person assessment at the event, film study from previous games and projections of potential, here's how we rank the top 25 recruits of a star-studded 2016 cycle.

25. S Nigel Warrior

Credit: 247Sports

School: Peachtree Ridge High School (Suwanee, Georgia)

Size: 5'11", 188 lbs

Recruitment Status: Considering Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, Ohio State and Tennessee, among others

Nigel Warrior is an absolute ball hawk who is enjoying a rise on the recruiting trail. He displays a balanced skill set, setting the tone deep in center field or while supporting his front seven near the line of scrimmage.

His junior season featured 71 tackles, five interceptions and two blocked punts. Warrior provided further proof of his special abilities in Oregon.

"No defensive back at The Opening opened more eyes than Warrior," asserted B/R National Recruiting Analyst Sanjay Kirpalani. "He had five interceptions and numerous pass breakups while displaying the type of range and instincts that should be present in a top safety prospect. After his showing, Warrior made a legit case to be billed as the top safety in the 2016 class."

24. DT Julian Rochester

Credit: 247Sports

School: McEachern High School (Powder Springs, Georgia)

Size: 6'5", 335 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to Georgia

When a prospect towers over his peers in a star-studded showcase like The Opening, you know he's a big dude. Julian Rochester did just that in Beaverton, bullying opponents in the process.

The prized Peach State prospect throttled offensive linemen with immense power on his initial punch. He isn't quite as quick as some of his top contemporaries along the defensive line, but Rochester is far more than just a "lane-clogger."

His fundamentals are firm overall, and he manages to mix some finesse moves into an otherwise bull-rush-heavy arsenal. Rochester does a great job disengaging from the grip of an opponent while finding daylight in the backfield.

He secured 116 tackles—25 for loss—and 12 sacks as a junior.

23. QB Malik Henry

Credit: 247Sports

School: In the process of transferring (formerly at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida)

Size: 6'2", 184 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to Florida State

Malik Henry may not have a home yet for his senior season, but it's apparent he's primed for a big fall. Despite attending three high schools in the past thee years, his stock is climbing again after a quality Elite 11 performance.

The Seminoles pledge beat out seven-on-seven teammate and Tennessee commit Jarrett Guarantano for a hefty share of snaps during The Opening tournament. His arm strength never wavered during a high-demand week, and Henry consistently placed the ball in space defenders couldn't disrupt, creating a strong impression of his anticipation at this point.

He threw for 4,413 yards and 36 touchdowns during the past two seasons. Expectations for improvement will be in place this season regardless of where Henry ends up.

"The goal is to get better every day. That's been my focus out here," he said in Beaverton.

22. WR Tyrie Cleveland

Credit: 247Sports

School: Westfield High School (Houston, Texas)

Size: 6'1 ½", 190 lbs

Recruitment Status: Considering Arizona State, Baylor, Florida, Houston and TCU, among others.

Tyrie Cleveland commanded attention at The Opening, emerging as one of the event's true breakout performers. He flashed elite speed in combine testing (4.32 seconds in the 40-yard dash) and rose to the occasion in seven-on-seven tournament action.

Teammate and Elite 11 MVP Shea Patterson locked onto Cleveland as a key target in crucial moments. This tandem capped off an impressive stretch by connecting on a game-clinching touchdown late in the championship game.

Cleveland, who caught 53 passes for 1,105 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2014, appears to be playing the best football of his life. The production and upside are both in place for a major rise in national rankings.

"In addition to being fast, Cleveland also showed that he was an extremely reliable receiver," B/R National Recruiting Analyst Damon Sayles said. "Cleveland was Shea Patterson's favorite target in seven-on-seven competition, as their team went from winless in pool-play action to the eventual national champion."

21. DT Rashard Lawrence

Credit: 247Sports

School: Neville (Monroe, Louisiana)

Size: 6'2", 309 lbs

Recruitment Status: Considering Alabama, LSU, Ohio State, Oklahoma and Ole Miss, among others

Rashard Lawrence is the most natural 3-technique in this class and figures to compete for early snaps at the position in college. His stout lower body provides a strong base that allows him to fire off the snap while maintaining a low center of gravity.

He drives offensive linemen back on initial contact and uses quick feet to maneuver into the backfield. This lateral agility allows Lawrence to stay composed as a running back nears, and when a ball-carrier is in his path, he finishes the play with intimidating force.

Relentless pursuit on each snap is a testament to his character. His recruitment likely boils down to another Alabama-LSU showdown.

20. OL Baveon Johnson

Credit: 247Sports

School: Lake Gibson (Lakeland, Florida)

Size: 6'4", 340 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to Florida State

Beyond top-rated tackle Greg Little, no offensive lineman turned more heads at The Opening than Baveon Johnson. He brutalized opponents with sheer strength, overwhelming even the most elite—and largest—defenders in America.

There were times when his toughness clearly gave him a mental edge in the trenches.

"He's the real deal," Alabama defensive tackle commit Kendell Jones said. "He's a strong guy. All that's going to beat a guy like that is technique. Obviously, I've got a lot more developing to do."

Johnson easily justified his status as the 2016 class' premier interior lineman. His tenacity and attitude provide a positive outlook for Johnson's potential as a tone-setting center.

19. LB Mique Juarez

Credit: 247Sports

School: North High School (Torrance, California)

Size: 6'1 ½", 226 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to USC

USC continues to stockpile outstanding young linebacker talent, and Mique Juarez may ultimately become the best of the bunch. The Trojans signed three top 2015 recruits at the position and also hold a commitment from 4-star 2016 Michigan product Daelin Hayes, but Juarez is balanced enough to outshine them all.

He remains relatively raw but projects as a potential hybrid defender like USC standout Su'a Cravens. Juarez is outstanding in downfield coverage and made several plays against passes in seven-on-seven competition at The Opening, highlighted by a pick-six touchdown.

His speed allows him to cover ground from sideline to sideline and creates plenty of pass-rush opportunities. There's a high ceiling in place for Juarez to grow into a dominant edge-setter who can cover tight ends and running backs with ease.

Juarez, who collected 107 tackles and 8.5 sacks last season, is still eyeing up official visits to Michigan, Nebraska and Notre Dame, per Lindsey Thiry of the Los Angeles Times.

18. RB Tavien Feaster

Credit: 247Sports

School: Spartanburg High School (Spartanburg, South Carolina)

Size: 5'10", 202 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to Clemson

There's clearly an open discussion about who belongs atop the 2016 running back rankings, but Tigers pledge Tavien Feaster occupies that spot for now. More than just a speedster (4.36 seconds in the 40-yard dash), he rumbles downfield with formidable size and offers his quarterback a viable pass target out of the backfield.

Feaster, who hails from the same community that produced standout college rushers Marcus Lattimore and Stephen Davis, caught seven touchdowns as a junior. It's an element of his game that can't be overlooked and could lead him to line up in the slot on occasion.

He gained 2,582 yards and 30 touchdowns on the ground during the past two seasons. His vision during plays could be the best among 2016 positional peers.

"I attack the hole when I see it open up in front of me. I don't hesitate," Feaster said.

17. S Eric Monroe

Credit: 247Sports

School: North Shore High School (Houston, Texas)

Size: 6'0", 180 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to LSU

Eric Monroe pushed the Tigers atop the 2016 composite class recruiting rankings when he committed last month. His pledge further enhances LSU's reputation as "DBU," giving the program yet another dominant defensive back to groom in coming years.

He is a complete safety who shines in every facet of what the position demands. Monroe surges toward the line of scrimmage in run support, aggressively eliminating rushing lanes before they can materialize.

His physicality is abundantly apparent in the second level, as Monroe routinely dishes out jarring hits that cause incompletions or turnover opportunities. This threat makes quarterbacks and receivers think twice before working toward his turf.

16. LB Ben Davis

Credit: 247Sports

School: Gordo High School (Gordo, Alabama)

Size: 6'3", 237 lbs

Recruitment Status: Considering Alabama, Auburn, Florida State, LSU and USC, among others

Ben Davis is bigger every time you see him, gaining solid weight that makes him appear college-ready a year shy of enrollment. His frame actually makes you wonder if he could take on a multifaceted role that allows him to line up at defensive end on obvious passing downs.

The son of all-time Alabama tackles leader Wayne Davis is among the most prized uncommitted prospects and remains "wide open" despite a natural allegiance to the Crimson Tide.

"I'm still listening to everybody," he said. "I'm going to figure out my official visits soon and take all five. I probably won't decide until signing day."

Davis possesses impressive length and does a great job wrapping up and bringing ball-carriers to the ground in one-on-one situations. He racked up 85 tackles and four sacks last season, according to AL.com's Wesley Sinor.

15. WR Nate Craig-Myers

Credit: 247Sports

School: Tampa Catholic (Tampa, Florida)

Size: 6'3", 208 lbs

Recruitment Status: Considering Auburn, Florida, Florida State, LSU and Ohio State, among others

Nate Craig-Myers looks completely recovered from a leg injury that cost him nearly the entire 2014 season. He showed immense burst and power while running through drills and taking on defensive backs in Beaverton.

It's another strong sign in his recovery just two months after Craig-Myers caught two touchdowns and returned a punt to the end zone in his high school spring game, according to Matt Schneidman of USA Today.

The former Auburn commit's quickness was on full display during seven-on-seven action, evidenced by a reception down the seam that ended with him splitting a pair of defenders en route to a score. His big-play ability forces opposing coaches to account for his whereabouts on every snap, while Craig-Myers' size and speed present serious matchup issues.

"Nate is a great receiver," 5-star LSU cornerback commit Saivion Smith said. "He's a major playmaker. I hope we can get him down to Baton Rouge next year."

14. OL Patrick Hudson

Credit: 247Sports

School: Silsbee High School (Silsbee, Texas)

Size: 6'5 ½", 325 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to Baylor

Patrick Hudson is a plug-and-play talent who has folks in Waco, Texas, excited about his potential as a multiyear starter. He already features a grown man's physical frame that doesn't require major transformation entering college.

His athleticism sets him apart from plenty of other 2016 offensive linemen who also possess massive size. Hudson slides outside well to cut off angles for defensive ends and protects the passing pocket with authority.

He routinely dumps his initial target after dominating for a few yards, focusing his attention on linebackers and defensive backs at the second level. Hudson's explosiveness and agility make him a strong candidate to spearhead an effective rushing attack.

13. CB Saivion Smith

Credit: 247Sports

School: IMG Academy (Bradenton, Florida)

Size: 6'1", 183 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to LSU

Saivion Smith anchors an IMG Academy secondary loaded with stars and believes he's ready to follow the footsteps of past LSU playmakers who helped create the "DBU" mystique in Baton Rouge.

"I need to go in there, put in the work and learn from [defensive secondary coach Corey] Raymond. He's the one who coached up a lot of those guys and helped push them into the league," Smith said. "If I do what he says and work on my craft, I won't have any worries or pressure."

His craft is already rather refined, as Smith shows outstanding anticipation in various situations. He closes in on the ball with burst and possesses the wingspan to break up passes that appear headed for a completion.

Smith is a willing run defender who can be a three-down defensive asset. He tallied 67 tackles, five interceptions and four fumble recoveries last season.

12. QB Jacob Eason

Credit: 247Sports

School: Lake Stevens High School (Lake Stevens, Washington)

Size: 6'5 ½", 217 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to Georgia

Jacob Eason slips slightly on this list after failing to truly distinguish himself at Elite 11 finals. The longtime Bulldogs pledge provided glimpse of a special skill set but struggled to sustain momentum during the week and primarily spent time backing up Texas commit Shane Buechele in seven-on-seven action.

Still, despite some shortcomings in Oregon, he is far too talented and savvy to not learn from the experience. His cannon arm, long frame and confidence is apparent in even the most basic drills, and those components led him to commanding high school campaigns.

Eason threw for 6,228 yards and 59 touchdowns during the past two seasons. Another strong effort this fall should have him back in contention for the No. 1 overall quarterback spot.

"Working hard is something I've never been afraid of," Eason told Sayles. "That's something my dad instilled in me a long time ago: keep working, never settle."

11. WR Kyle Davis

Credit: 247Sports

School: Archer High School (Lawrenceville, Georgia)

Size: 6'1 ½", 218 lbs

Recruitment Status: Considering Auburn, Georgia, Ohio State, South Carolina and Tennessee, among others

Kyle Davis displayed his full array of potential at The Opening, exhibiting elite athleticism and length. There were stretches when he appeared practically uncoverable against America's most heralded defensive backs.

Davis is an extremely shifty route-runner who doesn't sacrifice speed while smoothly cutting in and out of breaks. He can also climb the ladder when necessary, utilizing serious leaping ability to pull down high-placed passes.

"In a loaded field of receivers, Davis provided a statement all week long at the The Opening as to why he may possess the most upside of any pass-catcher in this class," Kirpalani said. "Davis is too physical for most defensive backs on the outside. But what makes him special is that he can run away from defenders in space—something he often exhibited in seven-on-seven play."

Davis collected 67 receptions last season, resulting in 1,183 yards and nine scores, according to the State.

10. QB Dwayne Haskins

Credit: 247Sports

School: The Bullis School (Potomac, Maryland)

Size: 6'3", 204 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to Maryland

In Oregon, Dwayne Haskins continued to confirm what we've seen on film and at recent camps—he is about as polished as passers come at this stage of their careers. His precision and decision-making shined yet again, leading to a significant rise on the national board of quarterback recruits.

Haskins—who picked Maryland over Notre Dame, Rutgers and Florida earlier this year—is also a budding leader. His ability to command a huddle has been tested multiple times, and he continues to rise to the occasion.

"He's a great quarterback who knows how to run an offense. The sky's the limit for Dwayne," 4-star wide receiver and seven-on-seven teammate Trevon Diggs said.

Haskins vied for Elite 11 MVP honors and may have claimed the award with another victory or two in tournament action. He is visibly in control at the helm of an offensive attack and appears primed to push for playing time as a true freshman.

"I'm a game-changer whenever I have the ball in my hands, whether it's first down or third down," Haskins said. "I'm going to get the job done. I don't make too many mistakes, and if I do make a mistake, there won't be one the next play. It's about making sure I capitalize on everything around me."

He completed 60 percent of pass attempts during the past two seasons, tossing 36 touchdowns.

9. OL Tommy Kraemer

Credit: 247Sports

School: Elder High School (Cincinnati, Ohio)

Size: 6'5 ½", 308 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to Notre Dame

Tommy Kraemer carries a quiet confidence when you talk to him, and he really ramps up that attitude while operating in the trenches. There's a nastiness to his game that perfectly complements the fundamentals of a technician. 

He maintains desired bend and incorporates fluid footwork while working against opponents of all speeds and sizes. Kraemer's arm length is also a key part of his approach and allows him to apply an early punch without leaning forward.

"Coaches definitely like my physicality. I like hitting people a lot," he said.

Kraemer looks like he can pack on about 20-25 pounds of weight without sacrificing athleticism. His ability to win the point of attack without lunging will be further augmented by increased strength.

8. DE Shavar Manuel

Credit: 247Sports

School: IMG Academy (Bradenton, Florida)

Size: 6'4", 290 lbs

Recruitment Status: Considering Alabama, Florida, Florida State, Miami and LSU, among others

Shavar Manuel steps into an ideal situation as a senior, joining a loaded IMG Academy defensive attack after transferring from Blake High School in Tampa. The presence of several FBS-bound teammates should effectively decrease some of the pressure previously applied by opponents.

Despite constant double-team blocking schemes and an overall avoidance from his gap in 2014, Manuel still managed to notch 61 tackles and 20 sacks. His quickness allows him to move laterally along the line before picking his hole and barreling through.

Manuel can line up all over the defensive front, taking snaps on the edge or inside. He's an extremely dangerous pass-rusher from anywhere on the field and presents versatility for whichever program ultimately signs him.

7. DT Dexter Lawrence

Credit: 247Sports

DT Dexter Lawrence

School: Wake Forest High School (Wake Forest, North Carolina)

Size: 6'4", 330 lbs

Recruitment Status: Considering Clemson, Florida, Florida State, North Carolina and South Carolina, among others

Dexter Lawrence is built like a college veteran and doesn't back down from challenges in the trenches. He beats opponents across the face with first-step stiffness that's accompanied by vicious physicality.

Agility and strength blend together to create a beastly combination at the heart of a defensive attack. Lawrence dismantles double-team efforts and slips into the backfield like a freight train.

He's rapidly improved as a pass-rusher and figures to wreak havoc in that regard throughout his career. Lawrence accounted for 111 tackles—44 for loss—and 15 sacks during the past two seasons.

6. TE Isaac Nauta

Credit: 247Sports

School: IMG Academy (Bradenton, Florida)

Size: 6'4", 237 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to Florida State

Isaac Nauta would command national attention at defensive end if he wasn't such a special tight-end talent. He attacks opponents with aggressive anger as a blocker, burying them before seeking out his next target.

His ability to create opportunities in the run game is terrific, but it's Nauta's prowess as a pass-catcher that sets him apart from most of the high school tight ends we've scouted during the past decade. He is arguably the top overall receiver in this class, and, when coupled with his tendencies as a blocker, his receiving skill set makes him a truly elite overall recruit.

Nauta is a cerebral route-runner who has a knack for finding space. He presents a massive target for quarterbacks and shows off surprising motor coordination when forced to adjust for the football.

"Nauta might be the best tight end prospect we've seen in quite some time," Kirpalani said. "He was arguably the most dominant player at The Opening and was even double-teamed at times during the seven-on-seven tournament. His route-running and athleticism make him a nightmare for defenses to cover in pass situations."

5. CB Levonta Taylor

Credit: 247Sports

School: Ocean Lakes High School (Virginia Beach, Virginia)

Size: 5'11", 183 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to Florida State

Levonta Taylor lived up to the hype in Beaverton, exhibiting natural athleticism coaches covet at cornerback. He clocked a 4.37 in the 40-yard dash at The Opening and flashed fluid hips while covering the country's most elusive receivers.

His demeanor on the field oozes with immense confidence. This swagger drives him to do great things, and he rarely fails to match that drive with his performance.

Taylor eliminates passing lanes quicker than anyone in the 2016 class and is an absolute beast with the ball in his hands. He scored five touchdowns in 2014 off interception and kick returns.

4. QB Shea Patterson

Credit: 247Sports

School: IMG Academy (Bradenton, Florida)

Size: 6'1", 197 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to Ole Miss

Shea Patterson moves into the top overall quarterback spot following a flurry of amazing performances at the end of Elite 11 competition. He claimed MVP honors for the event after leading his seven-on-seven squad to a tournament title.

"He's the No. 1 QB to me," 4-star Ohio State running back commit Demario McCall said. "That kid is a beast. He's an animal."

Patterson arrived in Oregon as an established 5-star prospect who began receiving scholarship offers as a freshman. His efforts further confirmed the exceptional improvisational abilities and quick-trigger decision-making that shows up on tape.

He completed 63 percent of passes during the past two seasons, tallying 5,083 yards and 72 scores through the air while surrendering only seven interceptions. His reputation continues to grow as early enrollment awaits in Oxford.

"I feel like I've always had a bull's-eye on my back since I was a freshman. That kind of gives me a chip on my shoulder," Patterson said. "I'm sure this will make opponents come at me harder, and that's even more motivation."

3. DT Derrick Brown

Credit: 247Sports

School: Lanier High School (Buford, Georgia)

Size: 6'4", 322 lbs

Recruitment Status: Considering Alabama, Auburn, Georgia and Tennessee, among others

Derrick Brown didn't disappoint in Beaverton, standing out among an incredibly deep collection of interior defensive linemen. He overmatched practically every opponent he encountered and actually made things look ridiculously easy at times considering the level of competition.

He's a tenacious worker who uses his hands well to execute off the snap. Once he has an offensive lineman on his heels, it's over. Brown bulldozes his way into the backfield while staying low.

Brown, who totaled 101 tackles—26 for loss—and 17.5 sacks last fall, revealed four favorites at The Opening. He is currently focused on SEC squads Auburn, Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia, the last of which remains the prohibitive program to beat.

He delivers his best effort on each snap, wearing down the offensive front over the course of four quarters. He's a quick-trigger athlete who leaves opposing linemen stumbling with an arsenal of moves that flash some finesse.

His violent approach at the point of attack is exactly what coaches search for to set the defensive tone early and often.

2. OL Greg Little

Credit: 247Sports

School: Allen High School (Allen, Texas)

Size: 6'6", 318 lbs

Recruitment Status: Committed to Texas A&M

Greg Little left Oregon firmly entrenched as high school football's premier offensive tackle. He didn't find himself in many dogfights unless top overall prospect Rashan Gary was lined up across from him.

"I have a ton of respect for Little because we both love to compete," Gary said. "Lose or win out here, I'm learning every rep. Those are the things that make you a better player moving forward."

Little entered high school as a tight end before shifting to tackle in 2013. He anchored the front line at Allen during back-to-back unbeaten state championship runs. 

Though he's gained considerable size since that position switch, Little remains a supremely gifted athlete. He moves more like a basketball forward than a lumbering lineman and focuses on details that ultimately make the difference between very good and great.

"I'm strong enough, but I have a long body, and my thing is to have proper technique," he told Sayles. "The first thing is hand placement. If I know that [a defender's] favorite move is the rip move, I'm making a move so he can't go across. Hand placement is a big thing for me."

1. DT Rashan Gary

Credit: 247Sports

School: Paramus Catholic High School (Paramus, New Jersey)

Size: 6'4", 311 lbs

Recruitment Status: Considering Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, Michigan and Rutgers, among others

Rashan Gary remains the man on top of this recruiting class. He's yet to endure a letdown on the big stage and warranted lofty praise from Todd Huber, The Opening lineman leader.

"Rashan Gary is the best defensive lineman to ever come through this event," he tweeted afterward.

This was his second visit to the event. He wowed competitors last year as an underclassman and emerged as a leader this time around.

"I definitely felt more comfortable because the coaches knew me. It was honor to be invited back," Gary said. "I didn't notice if any players treated me differently because of rankings or anything. I'm just focused on being consistent and getting better."

He is a tireless worker who hasn't allowed constant praise to go to his head. Gary approaches drills with the same exuberance and attentiveness he displayed as a freshman. 

His goal is to improve off a junior campaign that featured 55 tackles, 24 quarterback hurries and 14 sacks.

Quotes obtained firsthand by Bleacher Report National Recruiting Analyst Tyler Donohue unless otherwise noted. B/R analysts Damon Sayles and Sanjay Kirpalani also contributed to this piece.

Recruit info courtesy of 247Sports. High school stats courtesy of 247Sports or MaxPreps unless otherwise noted.

The Opening results courtesy of Student Sports.