Nunn, Jr. Takes Center Stage at Hard Knocks Foundation 7-v-7 All-Star Football Tryouts
Goulds, FLA. -- The kick off to the All-Star 7v7 football season is officially underway, as the Hard Knocks Foundation 7-v-7 program, held their tryouts this past weekend at Goulds Park. Derrick "Doctor" Lester, the founder amd chief executive director of the hard knocks, brought out the stars from all levels.
Denver Broncos defensive back Jamal Carter (awarded apparel), Louisville's Jim Thorpe Award winner Gerod Holliman of the University of Louisville and special guest offensive lineman Ruben Carter.
Rising junior defensive back Cornelius Nunn, Jr. (5-11, 175) of Miami Palmetto HS took the center stage of try outs. The Panthers standout who holds approximately four Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) verbal scholarships (Boston College, Southern Miss, Bowling Green, and Florida Atlantic University) outright earned both the overall Most Valuable Player and fastest man challenge. Nunn, Jr. dominated on both offense and defense during 1-on-1's drills. In man-to-man coverage, he was responsible for three interceptions and not a single reception allowed. Furthermore, Nunn, Jr. added his fourth takeaway during 7-v-7 playing center field at free safety. The panthers standout, is one of Miami-Dade's best but yet little-recognized prospects in the class-of-2019.
Miami Killian's junior wide receiver David Serralta (6-0, 185) appeared as the most well-rounded and consistent among all participants. His route running and hand-eye coordination and along with his ability to find soft spots in zone coverage stood out.
During the 1-on-1's drill, Serralta displayed solid speed and great acceleration, as he continuously showcased his crisp route running skills. He's an ideal slot receiver at the next level.
Miami Southridge sophomore linebacker Naquon Fagan (6-1, 175), the younger brother of Syracuse freshman linebacker Nadarius Fagan, clearly was the top linebacker of the day.
Fagan speed and hips appeared as a defensive back during 7-v-7 drills. He also was extremely impressive during 1-v-1 session as well. He has the build of a lean safety, but the physicality of a defensive lineman.
South Dade's rising junior Paul McIntyre (5-11, 165), a transfer from Keys Gate (dropped football program), is one of Miami-Dade County best kept secrets.
The unheralded prospect who led the Knights in interceptions, was extremely physical, fluid, and fundamentally sound at the point of contact. McIntyre received high praise from former first-team all-county and New Mexico State defensive back George Callender.
The 2017 class 8A state semi-final runner Miami High, secondary will remain in great hands with returning starters cornerback Andrew bloodshaw, Jr. (5-10, 165) and rover/cornerback Devenson Cadet (6-1, 170). The pair was single out by FSU defensive lineman Desmond Hollin and received apparel for their standout performance, which was donated by
Denver Broncos safety Jamal Carter. Cadet versatility to play cornerback and safety, a long with a 6-foot frame will attract college coaches this off-season. Bloodshaw, Jr. is a competitor and doesn't back away from a challenge. His play didn't go unnoticed, as he was named a standout. Miami Jackson junior QB Devion Essix made the long trip south, and after his performance, it was well worth every mile travelled. During 7-v-7 the general, separated himself from the pack.
His dink and dunk approach, in the passing game was consistent. Essix made great decisions with the ball, and didn't try to be greedy. His arm talent was solid and his decision-making was impressive.
The most intriguing prospect of the event was none other than Miami Southridge's interior defensive lineman Marcus Strong. Strong, who stands 5-foot-11, 205 pounds, recorded 14 sacks as a junior and effortlessly, can bench press over 300 pounds. Strong advanced to the fastest man finalist, and finished as the #2 overall fastest prospect.
The 15-and-under division showcased a number of stars of tomorrow, but the youngsters who took center stage was none other than wide receiver Mark Evans and Anton Clayton. The eighth-grader duo both possesses the athleticism and drive, to have promising high school careers.
