Inside the Huddle: Reggie Northrop-First Coast-LB-Class of 2012

By Charles Fishbein on Saturday June 25, 20110

Through the summer we will continue to bring coverage throughout Florida. One of the prospects we had to once again watch in person was First Coast Linebacker Reggie Northrop. We have watched pretty much all Florida’s linebackers and Northrop is at the top of each list. At first glance, Northrop has all the physical tools you want to see in a linebacker. The talented prospect from Duval County has had some of the premier programs on him all spring long. With his decision just a few weeks away, ESS will break down the talented linebacker and give you are insight on what to expect from him in college.

What ESS likes about Northrop: He has size, (6’2-220). With the game changing linebackers need to be bigger and stronger. The days of 5’11-190 pound linebackers are over. Northrop has ideal size and we expect him to get even bigger once in a college weight room. There is no doubt that Northrop can get into the 235-240 pound range. He will be big enough to handle taking on offensive lineman. He has the ability to shed a block and make a play behind the line of scrimmage. As he gets bigger and stronger his performance on the field will improve as well. We also like that Northrop is versatile enough to play all three linebacker positions. He can come up and play the run or drop into coverage and cover a tight end or receiver.

What Northrop needs to improve on: He needs to trust his instincts. He has the ability to read what the offense is doing before the snap of the football Northrop still needs to trust his natural instincts. In high school you can get away with being a step late to the football. In college being a step late because you are thinking too much is the difference between stopping a team on third down or them making a big play. He needs to not think so much and just out and make plays. Be more productive is also important for Northrop.

Final Thoughts: With so few quality linebackers this year in Florida, Northrop has seen his stock skyrocket. He could end up one of the more heavily recruited players if his senior season goes well. He may commit in the next couple of weeks but that will not stop opposing teams from poaching him. Northrop is just one of the few bigger linebackers in Florida this year that can play both the run and step back into coverage and actually make plays. He has all the physical talent to become a very good player at the next level. Now it is up to Northrop to get it done.

Tags: first coast