Football Recruiting Advice for Defensive Ends

Another series of articles that I am going to continue doing is breaking down the recruiting knowledge that I have for different positions in both basketball and football. While some may feel that recruiting is all the same, that is definitely not the case at all. The recruiting process for a quarterback, lineman, linebacker, or kicker is very different. That is why I plan on focusing on a variety of positions to help with basketball recruiting and football recruiting.

While the defensive end position may be similar to defensive tackle, there are some differences that could help you during the recruiting process. It is important to know these when sending out tape and attending camps that could lead to scholarship offers.

The biggest differences between these two positions is athleticism. A college coach is looking for a defensive end who is able to move, rush the passer, and stop the run all at the same time. While it may be a lot to ask of an athlete, your prototypical defensive end is able to do all of these.

A defensive end also does not need to have the weight of a defensive tackle. Most college players at this position weigh around 275 to 285 pounds while the defensive tackles are normally in the range of 300 pounds. There are always going to be exceptions but mainly the biggest linemen are kept at tackle.

Many recruits get brought to campus as a defensive lineman. Early in their career, when they are lighter in weight and not as physical in nature, they may start out at defensive end. It allows them to use that athleticism and speed that was previously mentioned. But overtime, once they are able to bulk up, they may eventually be moved full time at defensive tackle.

Linebackers who do not have the blazing speed that coaches are looking for also at times are moved to defensive end. These converted linebackers are usually considered more athletic than the traditional defensive end and that makes the adjustment easier for them. While there are some big differences between the two positions, their speed and athleticism may fit in just fine at defensive end.

Coaches will also convert tight ends to the defensive end position as well. Those at the next level may bring a recruit in and see where he projects to best. It may be at defensive end, tight end, or even full back. Because of the ability that is needed at defensive end, recruits are able to play a number of different positions. It usually just depends on what the school needs.

When putting the highlight video together, now is the time to show off your ability to make plays. The coaches will be looking to see how big you are (6-foot-4 or taller is what most of the major college programs are looking for). An athlete will also need to show that he has the skills needed to get in the backfield and make plays. Being able to tackle well is also a huge plus.

A lot of defensive end/tight end recruits need to have good footwork to get past the offensive lineman. That is why many of the top players at this spot have either played or do play basketball. They are normally one of the biggest players on the court in hoops and work on that footwork every day in the post.

In your conversations with the college coaches, talk to them about where they feel you project at the college level. Many defensive end recruits do not stay at that spot their entire career. There are so many different positions that they can play that it is important to get a feel for where a coach wants to use you at. If your heart is set on defensive end for career, make sure the coach is willing to give you that chance. Some coaches want you for a certain spot and will keep you there.

In order to become a better defensive end, try to speak with the strength and conditioning coach when you visit campus. Talk to them about former players that are similar to you and what they have done over their career. You want to get a feel for who you will be working with to make you the best possible athlete you can be.

Also try to get a feel for their defensive line coach and what it would be like to play for him. While it is never a sure thing that this coach will be there the next four or five years, it is vital to have a good relationship with him while you are there. See if he is the type of coach that you like to play for.

As mentioned many time during the article, a defensive end has an advantage of being able to play many spots in college. Few linemen are considered athletes as recruits but this is where a defensive end can flourish during recruiting.


Previous recruiting specific articles to look at:

• Football Recruiting Advice for Quarterbacks
• Football Recruiting Advice for Running Backs
• Football Recruiting Advice for Wide Receivers
• Football Recruiting Advice for Tight Ends
• Football Recruiting Advice for Offensive Linemen
• Football Recruiting Advice for Defensive Tackles
• Football Recruiting Advice for Linebacker
• Basketball Recruiting Advice for Point Guards
• Basketball Recruiting Advice for Shooting Guards
• Basketball Recruiting Advice for Small Forwards
• Basketball Recruiting Advice for Power Forwards
• Basketball Recruiting Advice for Centers
• Important Factors in Accepting an Athletic Scholarship: Location
• Important Factors in Accepting an Athletic Scholarship: Athletic Facilities
• Important Factors in Accepting an Athletic Scholarship: The Coaching Staff
• Important Factors in Accepting an Athletic Scholarship: Academics
• Important Factors in Accepting an Athletic Scholarship: Cost
• Important Factors in Accepting an Athletic Scholarship: Weather