Consensus four-star defensive end Jalyn Holmes is one of the best players from Virginia and a guy coveted by programs across the country. He holds scholarship offers from Ohio State, USC, Florida State, Florida, Clemson, Virginia Tech, Nebraska, Tennessee, South Carolina, plus many others.
Jalyn Holmes recruit scouting report: Balance, length and body control
Considering his evaluations, and his production, it’s not hard to see why he has so many good offers. The 6’5, 230-pound Holmes has experience playing receiver in addition to his work on the defensive side, and he earned a spot in the 2014 U.S. Army All-American Bowl. As a junior in 2012, he made 79 tackles and added 490 receiving yards.
As of December 20, He is regarded as the No. 84 overall prospect in the 2014 class, according to the 247Sports Composite rankings, and the No. 4 weak-side defensive end. Scout ranks him 13th among all defensive ends, and ESPN has him at No. 16. Rivals likes him more than the other services, ranking him 57th overall.
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Bud Elliott, National Recruiting Analyst: With his somewhat lanky frame, many see Jalyn Holmes and assume he is a blazing pass rusher. But after seeing him at The Opening showcase, and his senior highlights, my take is a bit different.
Holmes isn’t slow by any means, but I don’t see great burst from him. I see good burst, but very good flexibility, ability to bend and body control. And that is a very useful skill set. I also see a player who can add 30 or more pounds in his college career, particularly in his lower body. And as he does that, he’ll be a very long and strong player capable of putting his hand on the ground or standing up on the edge of an odd front.
Holmes could also play tight end as he is capable of making acrobatic catches and has the potential to be a threat in the red zone.
