Hidden Gem Chronicles: Burleson Centennial WR Damien Long III

By Marc Henry (@marchen44)

Top Texas Prospect's mission is to "Shine The Light On Hidden Gems"—players who possess exceptional talent but may be flying under the radar or on the cusp of breaking out. Our goal is to provide these athletes with the exposure they deserve, highlighting their skills and potential to help them gain the recognition and opportunities they need to succeed. We are dedicated to giving these hidden gems the spotlight, ensuring their talents are seen and appreciated. For this article we spotlight class of 2025 wide receiver Damien Long III.

Damien Long III is an electrifying receiver who brings a dynamic presence to the field every time he steps between the hashes. He has big-play potential with the football in his hands. Long III has demonstrated the ability to consistently make game-changing plays. His playmaking ability is displayed in his proficiency to run the entire route tree, making him a difficult matchup for any defender. As a savvy route runner, he leverages his quickness at the snap to create separation early in his routes, giving his quarterback a reliable target.

One of Long III's standout attributes is his strong, reliable hands. He has a natural ability to catch the football, often engulfing it with ease. His arm length allows him to extend and win in contested catch situations, making him a formidable threat on 50/50 balls. His ability to play above the rim adds another dimension to his game, particularly in the red zone.

Long III's speed and burst make him a deep threat, capable of stretching the field and keeping defenses on their heels. His playmaking ability isn't confined to deep passes. He has the agility and vision to turn short routes into long gains, making him a versatile weapon. Last season, Long III showcased his all-around skill set by amassing 950 all-purpose yards and scoring 9 touchdowns. Despite playing in a run-heavy offense, he still managed to accumulate 771 receiving yards, averaging an impressive 26.6 yards per catch. His performance earned him 1st Team All-District 3-5A Division I honors and recognition as an All-Johnson selection in his junior season.

Standing at 6-foot and weighing 175 pounds, Long III possesses the physical tools necessary to compete at the next level. As a senior, he is expected to benefit from Centennial's plans to open up the offense more this year. This offensive shift is likely to provide him with more opportunities to showcase his skills and put up even bigger numbers.

Given his impressive track record and potential, college programs should be eager to get on board with Damien Long III. His combination of speed, hands, route-running ability, and playmaking skills make him a valuable asset who could be a steal for the right program.