To some it might seem early but as players begin hitting lifting PR’s and getting in shape- the season has never quite ended.  The chase for a trip to Wheeling never ends, and we are taking Fridays in the current offseason to highlight the top five players returning per position in AAA and AA/A (combined).  Not on the list?  Good thing it’s not even preseason yet.  Prove us right or prove us wrong.

 

Without further ado…

 

Honorable Mentions

Jay Poindexter (Nitro) 2019

Reggie Redman (Keyser) 2019

Bronson Skeens (Poca) 2019

 

#5 Josh Wamsley

School: Point Pleasant

Year: 2019

HT/WT: 5’8 / 170 lbs

Wamsley comes in at #5 already being the most prolific receiver in Point Pleasant history.  He is,without a doubt, Cason Payne’s favorite target and for very good reason.  He’s smaller in size but makes up for it with excellent route running and deceptive breakaway speed.  Very few dropped balls come from him and he plays with a toughness that defenses absolutely hate.  Wamsley will put up some great numbers come Fall.

 

 

#4 Antonio Parsons

School: Fairmont Senior

Year: 2019

HT/WT: 5’9 / 175 lbs

Parsons should be a common name around the state at this point being one of the most clutch receivers in big games.  He’s played in the biggest of the big and always stood out.  His ability to high point passes and make incredible leaping grabs is noteworthy.  He has few flaws in his game and if Connor Neal progresses as he should at QB, Parsons will have a heck of a senior season.

 

 

#3 Reed Reitter

School: Weir

Year: 2019

HT/WT: 6’4 / 205 lbs

Reitter is the biggest pass catcher on the list.  As Weir’s do-it-all guy, Reitter has a heavy load.  Part of that job is using his crazy size to out leverage defenders and make big catches.  He also has the ability to make plays after the catch with good moves and decent speed.  Reitter is a little stiff in the hips but could potentially be a great look for a next level tight end.

 

#2 Drew Hatfield

School: Mingo Central

Year: 2020

HT/WT: 6’0 / 180 lbs

Though Miner Mountain lost a legend, they still have an athlete who’s been 1st-Team All-State every year he’s been there.  Hatfield cemented himself as a top receiver years ago as a freshman dicing up secondaries for a state championship run.  Last year, nothing really changed.  He is elusive with decent size and undoubted play-making ability.  He is a very electric athlete and will affect games from multiple positions.

 

 

#1 Braden Price

School: Wheeling Central

Year: 2019

HT/WT: 6’0 / 175 lbs

On a Single A squad already crowded with stars, Price could be the brightest.  Though used a lot as a wingback and for runs, Price makes an excellent slot.  He is quick with great hands and the ability to plant his foot and consistently get yards.  We’re big on his overall smoothness and natural technique for the position.  Price rejoins an offense beautifully set up for his success.  The Maroon Knights are loaded, folks.

 

 

Who did we miss?  Let us know!  We never shy away from people telling us we’re missing out on kids!  Our next Feature Five Friday will take on the top returning defensive backs in AAA!  Let us know who should be in there!