Scouting 5-Star DT George Uko

Chino, Calif. - George Uko of Don Lugo High School is rated 5-Stars by Scout and is ranked the No. 3 defensive tackle nationally. What makes Uko such an impressive prospect? Scout was on hand Thursday night to see him in person.

5-Star defensive tackle George Uko (6-4/300) is as physically talented with his combination of size and athleticism as any player in the country. While projected as a defensive tackle on college level because of his massive size, Uko lines up in a variety of positions for his Don Lugo team.

On defense, Uko can nearly always be found playing defensive end, but his versatility as a jumbo athlete gives the Don Lugo staff more options. Uko can be seen lining up at fullback and tight end. The big man is much more than a glorified offensive guard at those positions though, as he'll get several touches a game via handoff or even pass receptions.

His future is on the line of scrimmage though, and how does his skill set translate to college?

As I mentioned earlier, physically, he's at the top of the chart. At 6-4 and 300 plus pounds, he has quick first step, and speed to pursue from the backside. He's quick with his hands and spin move to beat an offensive tackle. He's got powerful upper body and core strength allowing him to manhandle a defender that mans up on him. When he's on, he's as good as he wants to be.

Uko needs to become more flexible. I noticed it during warmups that he wasn't getting low enough in his stance, and it looked like it was more of a flexibility issue than a technique problem. His lack of flexibility enables defenders to get under him rather easily and make him rather pedestrian against the run. I gathered rather quickly that was a big reason why he was playing defensive end rather than an interior spot on the Don Lugo line.

On passing plays, his pad level wasn't a concern as the tackle in front of him would take his drop step in pass protection, and Uko would engage him while they were both in a high position. In those instances, it was game over. The offensive tackle couldn't handle the quickness and power of a pass rushing Uko, while he was able to more than hold his own in drive block scenarios.

Uko possesses the type of physical prowess that could one day make him a 1st round draft pick in the NFL. He needs to work on his flexibility and playing hard on every down. Too many times Uko could be seen popping straight up and watching from his end spot.

But like I said earler... when he's on...

See him in action from Thursday night's game vs. Garey:

#90 DE/FB/TE George Uko
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