Makai Byerson, a Power 5 recruit, to lead Manchester defense
MIDLOTHIAN, Va. (BVM) 鈥� Though only a junior, Manchester High School defensive lineman Makai Byerson will be looked at as a leader for the Lancers defense during the 2021 season. As the lone returning defender from the Lancers鈥� playoff team a year ago, Byerson will be expected to lead both on and off the field for the inexperienced unit.
Fortunately, Byerson is a great player who many teammates in the program likely already look to emulate given his high-level performance and status as a recruit. The defensive lineman is ranked as the No. 6 player in Virginia for the Class of 2024 and a top-500 recruit nationally At 6-foot-5, 220 pounds, Byerson certainly has the size to impact games both through his play and intimidation.
Given his strong performance during his first two seasons with the Lancers, Byerson has received plenty of attention from top programs. To date, the junior has racked up eight Division I football offers including from the likes of , and Virginia Tech to name a few.聽
I am blessed to say I have received a D1 offer from Virginia Tech University
— Makai Byerson (@Showtimekai)
Though billed as a defensive lineman, the Lancers have a plan to use their top athlete in as many ways as possible. Given his size and athleticism, the team has announced plans to use Byerson on the offensive end as well, lining him up at tight end.
Blessed
— Makai Byerson (@Showtimekai)
Manchester went 7-3 last season and with a 61-10 record and a state title within the past six seasons, expectations for the team to win, despite its youth, are still high. With Byerson leading the Lancers defense, expect another strong performance for the unit this season as they look to help the program reach the postseason once again.聽
While Byerson鈥檚 shoulders may be weighed down by expectations, he seems prepared for it. At just 16 years old, Byerson is getting an early lesson in leadership and maturity and that will only pay dividends for Manchester this season and for his career down the road.
September 1st is right there 馃 馃摬
— Makai Byerson (@Showtimekai)
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