Playmaker: Xander Edwards
By John Evered: Playmaker Recruiting Analyst
Overview
Xander Edwards is a big runner for a sophomore out of The Bolles School in his hometown of Jacksonville, Florida. At 6’2 and 215 pounds Edwards plays like a seasoned collegiate player. His physical progression since he was named the MVP of the Under Armor Next Camp in February of 2024 is a testament to his work ethic that shows up on film. You can see Xander uses his off hand relentlessly to guide himself off his offensive linemen when searching for a hole to run through and use the same off hand to aggressively stiff arm defensive backs when he breaks free. He has a tall stature in the backfield before receiving the hand off, allowing him to utilize his 6’2 frame to scan the defense. His jump cuts are routinely advanced for his competition and as a sophomore in high school could definitely integrate into the collegiate level early. He has breakaway speed that challenges defensive backs and once he breaks the first tackler and makes a jump cut to the outside he is as good as gone to the endzone.
Strengths
Great natural athlete who’s physical work ethic shines through
Not shy of contact, routinely breaks the first tackler
Great jump cuts to get to the edge of the fields, preventing the defense from pushing him towards the middle with more available tacklers
Shows passion for the game through his aggression when running and helping teammates
Can step into the slot and be a receiver
Breakaway speed that collegiate and professional scouts will fawn over
Doesn’t take any prisoners - will run the defense over to get the extra yard and fall forwards
Weaknesses
Tends to look for the big hit before running out of bounds, risking injury
With his relatively high stature in the backfield, can create tough pass blocking situations
when trying to get low on bigger defensive linemen
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