2023 Top 10 Preseason East Texas DBs

Last week we looked at the best pass catchers, this week we'll look at the guys who are the best at defending the pass. Check out the best 10 DBS returning for the 2023 season. 

Be on the look for:

Lufkin's Isaiah Menefee
Chapel Hill's Dillion Johnson

Size: 6'2 175
Stats: 1st Team All District Cornerback in 22

The name gives you all the pedigree you need to know when it comes to Kilgore football. Jayden is out to make a name for his self, and after a great introduction in 2022, expect Sanders to place his self in the Top 100 of East Texas this season. 


Size: 5'10 165
Stats: First Team All-District in 22

Not the biggest guy in the world, but packs a major punch and has excellent acceleration to drive to footballs. Deckard had a great sophomore season in 22, and I expect more of the same in 2023 for the Pirate. 


Size: 5'10 160
Stats: District Utility Player of the Year in 22

Dean is a savvy corner with great ball skills who was also used in the slot in 22. With the graduation of Deuce McGregor, Dean could very well shine on offense more this year, but with his playmaking skills, I expect Dean to be one of those guys in 23. 


Size: 6'1 180
Stats: All-District corner in 21, 22

Williams had an incredible year in 21 for a sophomore, and in 22, like the rest of the Tyler High Lions, he took a step back. With new leadership, I expect to see a more locked in and inspired Williams this upcoming season for JT. 


Size: 5'8 170
Stats: All-District Safety in 22

AVT is a shifty do everything guy for Jasper. He's gonna tote it, catch it and defend in 2023 and he's one of the best athletes in East Texas. I expect big things from him in 2023. 

Size: 5'11 185
Stats: All-District Safety in 22

Buddha is a 3 year starter and the quarterback of the defense from his safety position in Longview. He's the smartest guy on defense, gets everyone aligned and is a sure tackler. He's had a big off-season both physically and through offers, and I expect it all to pay off for him in 2023. 


Size: 6'1 180
Stats: 71 tackles, 380 rushing yards

Moton could very well be the team's starter at running back and not play defense in 2023, but based off what we know, Moton is one of the best DBS coming back in ETX. He's a big time tackler, and his speed allows him to make plays all over the field. 


Size: 5'9 175
Stats: 91 on the Top 100 List for 2022

Manning, is similar to Thomas from Jasper. He's gonna tote the rock for Athens, but on defense he can absolutely take your head off from that safety position. I expect big things from Manning, whether be on offense, defense or in special teams. 


Size: 5'9 175
Stats: Number 68 on the 2021 list, 10 on the 2022 list

Hampton is the best receiver coming back, and it if it weren't for Willie Nelson, he'd be the top DB coming back in ETX. Hampton is truly elite, and one of them. He's got great anticipation skills to take away your quick game, and in 7 on 7 he's shown elite safety skills as well.


Size: 5'9 175
Stats: #13 on both 2021 and 2022 lists

Willie Nelson has been a fan favorite in Longview for the past 2 seasons, and with 13 interceptions in the last 2 years and a few TDS to go with it, it's not hard to see why. Willie is elite. He's physical, a sure tackler, one of the many reasons he's committed to Oklahoma State to play nickel. He's got outstanding ball skills, and after he catches it look out. Willie's the best and I expect him to continue to show it in 23. 

Comments