You Are Athlete All-American Showcase: Trench Dawgs D-Line Standouts (Day One)

The trenches were alive with talent on day one of the You Are Athlete All-American Showcase, with defensive linemen from across the country flashing dominance during 1-on-1s and drill work. With several standouts making their case early, expect an intense battle for MVP honors on Day Two.

Jacob Lopez-Veasey – Class of 2026

Cornerstone Christian School (San Antonio, TX) | 6’5” 240 lbs | DE

Lopez-Veasey is a long, athletic defensive lineman with a lightning-quick get-off and he moved fluidly through the drills portion of camp. He showcased the ability to get a deep bend after the initial engagement and a stiff punch, consistently winning reps during 1-on-1s. He’s already on the radar with an offer from UTSA.

Cam Toomey – Class of 2028

Saratoga Springs (NY) | 6’3” 245 lbs | DE

One of the youngest prospects in attendance, Toomey displayed advanced physical tools for his age. His explosive first step, long arms, and lateral agility stood out in drills. With continued development, his upside is massive.

Tanielu Ma’afala-Barbasa – Class of 2026

Arbor View HS (Las Vegas, NV) | 6’2” 245 lbs | DE

A polished pass rusher with a deep bag of moves, Ma’afala-Barbasa showed power and finesse. He ran the arc smoothly, showing the ability to sink his hips with a deep bend and flashed a stiff punch that overwhelmed opponents. Offers include UNLV, Sacramento State, Air Force, New Mexico State, and Central Michigan.

D’Juan Morrison – Class of 2026

Staley HS (MO) | 6’2” 310 lbs | DT

Morrison was a wrecking ball on day one in Houston. He brings power at the point of attack with nimble feet for his size. His quick spin moves and violent hands gave offensive linemen problems throughout the session. Easily one of the most disruptive interior guys on the field.

Sidney Catlett III – Class of 2026

Calvin Coolidge HS (Washington, DC) | 6’0” 196 lbs | Edge/LB

Catlett III brought an edge to the showcase with his relentless motor and elite closing speed. His bend off the edge and violent hands stood out, along with his physicality at the point of impact. He is a name to watch in the MVP conversation heading into day two.

Bryce Jackson – Class of 2027

Barbers Hill HS (TX) | 6’0” 300 lbs | DT

Jackson is an interior menace with elite get-off and violent hands. He flashed a deadly spin move and showed the ability to control gaps and push the pocket. Coming off a dominant sophomore season (73 tackles, 25 TFLs, 5 sacks), he’s already earned offers from UTSA and Colorado State.

Ryan Deakins – Class of 2026

Tolton Catholic HS (MO) | 6’5” 240 lbs | EDGE

A true physical specimen with long arms and an athletic build, Deakins showed advanced hand usage and balance in drill work. He’s explosive off the ball, uses his length to create separation, and brings a high ceiling as a multi-sport athlete (football, basketball, baseball). He recorded 54 tackles and 14 TFLs as a junior. He should his recruiting crank up this camp season. NW Missouri and Missouri Southern have extended offers, his bag should get heavier as the 2025 season approaches. He has the skill set that translates at the next level.

Expect this group to continue making noise on day two as they compete for overall MVP honors among the defensive front.