Donovan Jeter to Notre Dame: Fighting Irish Land 4-Star DT Prospect
Donovan Jeter, a 4-star defensive tackle from Beaver Falls High School in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, committed to Notre Dame on Monday.
"Want to thank everyone that helped with the decision.. but here it is pic.twitter.com/yR3VYkEzM8
— 5⃣God (@JeteNificent34) September 19, 2016"
Jeter, who stands 6'5" and weighs 250 pounds, is considered the No. 8 player from the state of Pennsylvania, the No. 15 defensive tackle in the country and the No. 276 player overall, according to 247Sports' composite rankings.
According to ESPN's scouting report, Jeter "doesn't look to be fully maximizing ability at this point and has room to improve," and he looks capable of playing as a 3-4 defensive end, a 4-3 defensive tackle or perhaps even as a 4-3 defensive end.
He was initially thought of as a basketball prospect, however, before catching the eyes of recruiters for his abilities on the football field. So his athleticism is certainly impressive, but his ceiling in football remains high.
He has room to grow into his frame and add muscle and bulk and is at his best against the run, where he can either stand up blockers and plug holes or shed blockers and penetrate. He isn't the most sophisticated pass-rusher, though his power does allow him to drive back blockers at times and collapse the pocket.
Brian Doh of Scout added more details to Jeter's scouting report:
"Jeter is an intriguing prospect because he has the length and frame. He is quick and explosive, and he plays physical and does a nice job of getting his hands onto the offensive lineman. He gets off the ball well and he can pursue a play down the field. He has good body control moving up the field, and can get around the edge. If he can stay a little lower at the snap, it will help him with leverage against bigger offensive tackles.
"
Whereas 247Sports projects him as a defensive tackle, Scout and ESPN see him as a defensive end. Given his skill set, 3-4 defensive end is probably his ideal position.
He's certainly put in the work over the offseason, as he tweeted:
"The math (pt.2)
— 5⃣God (@JeteNificent34) April 28, 2016"
12x45=540
Plus 225 (terry)
Plus 200(Malachi)
Plus 50 (sled)
Equals...1015lbs @TerryGrossetti pic.twitter.com/IccmmEpkwF
Jeter is an intriguing prospect who could grow into an excellent force on the defensive line at the next level. He has good potential and may surpass expectations for Notre Dame. His recruitment may go under the radar a bit, but as he continues to develop, he could turn into a star.
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