SI All-American Candidate Aidan Hubbard Highlights and Evaluation
Prospect: Aidan Hubbard
Status: SI All-American candidate
Vitals: 6-foot-4, 225 pounds
Position: Linebacker
School: Cleveland (Ohio) Saint Ignatius
Committed to: Northwestern
Projected Position: WILL Linebacker
Frame: Tall and well-proportioned. Above-average width across shoulders and chest. Relatively thick, tightly-wound thighs and trunk. Somewhat filled out already, but plenty of room for more weight.
Athleticism: Impressive overall coordination for size. Quick, light feet; plays on toes. Wastes little motion while changing directions. Above-average speed and burst. Adequate play strength.
Instincts: Not especially physical. Prefers to evade rather than take on blockers and shed. Quick to diagnose and flow to ball. Awareness and play allow him to duck inside blockers and corral ball-carrier. Relentless in pursuit; takes good angles to football.
Polish: High-level football IQ. Lines up at multiple spots for St. Ignatius: edge defender, WILL, MIKE, and deep safety. Needs to get more comfortable anchoring, setting edge in run game. Lacks plan, moves as pass-rusher.
Bottom Line: Hubbard has good physical tools for a linebacker prospect, and advanced awareness allows him to play half step faster than opponents. Athletic enough to function in multiple roles, but must focus on single position at next level. Projects best at WILL, where versatility should help him make early impact and emerge as multi-year starter for Northwestern