Commitment Evaluation: 2024 LB Desman Stephens

USC didn’t offer Clarkston (Mich.) 2024 linebacker Desman Stephens II until October 31, which is often times too late in the process to have a shot with most. But the interest in the Trojans led to a Nov. 18 USC official visit and now a Thanksgiving commitment.

After the official visit over, it was clear the Trojans were trending with the Michigan based linebacker prospect.

So, with Stephens now in the boat, let’s take a look at what kind of player he is.

After watching the film 

I said in a story prior to Stephens’ official visit, I had just watched his film for the first time. I had zero prior knowledge of his game or skillset so I went in with a fresh view of what he can do. 

Stephens is slotted and ranked at linebacker, but he told he feels good about playing multiple positions. After taking a look at his tape and boy… he was right. This is a legit versatile defender. His Hudl profile has him at 6-foot-4, 220 pounds, so he has an impressive frame. 

Stephens has lined up linebacker, safety, edge rusher, nickel, and even the boundary corner. He has also made plays at running back and wide receiver on offense as well as in both the punt and kick return game. 

The first thing I notice with Stephens is the game speed. I don’t know what he runs in the 40-yard dash or on a track, but the speed at which he diagnoses plays and reacts matched with his size makes him an elite disruptor and violent finisher.

He also plays the game with a good fluidity, which shows he is comfortable in his role and has confidence in his game. There is no hesitation or indecisiveness in his decision making on the defensive side. The fluidity also shows up big in coverage. He lined up at outside cornerback and looked like a natural. His hips look good and he matches the speed of receivers. 

I think at the next level, Stephens would be able to to excel in the Big Ten as a linebacker. With the amount of skilled tight ends and bigger receivers that are in the conference, Stephens is a good fit to match with some of those offenses. And even with heavier running offenses like Michigan, Penn State, or Wisconsin, his size and ability to shed blocks would shine.

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