Recruiting: IMG Academy Spring Game Observations
BRADENTON, Fla. - Seeing top-notch high school football prospects up close and personal helps a person gain a better perspective.
With the case of the Bradenton (Fla.) IMG Academy scrimmage, it was more informative than expected, however. There were the usual elite recruits that all the recruiting analysts wanted to see and interview. That’s true.
There were also players that had reshaped their bodies and looked tremendous, as well as a few underclassmen that stood out.
Going from quarterback and moving through position by position, here were some of the recruits that noted from last night’s IMG spring scrimmage. Keep in mind that several players sat out and only some of the recruits were focused upon last evening.
Jayden Bradford - Quarterback - 2024
A really talented athlete, Bradford showcased his ability to complete several passes while under heavy pressure. That’s one of the most difficult tasks any signal caller will be challenged with. Well done.
Bradford also made decisive decisions. Much like his performance during the Georgia Elite 11 regional this past weekend, Bradford proved that he’s improved his all-around quarterback skills.
Jerrick Gibson - Running Back - 2024
One of the most heavily recruited running backs in the nation, he’s always possessed the speed to run away from defenders. Going against his teammates during the spring scrimmage, he also consistently showed something that’s great to see – especially live – and that would be his ability to grind out those tough three or four-yard runs.
Not many plays go for big yardage. During the scrimmage, Gibson understood that sometimes he just needed to get what he could. Regardless of the team and situation, too many running backs have broken off from the intended running lane, went to the perimeter, and subsequently lost a chance at a positive gain.
Gibson stuck with the plan. He still possessed that eye-opening speed. No doubt about that. It’s just that there were not many chances to break big runs and Gibson made quality decisions with his carries.
He’s still in the 210-pound range and looks good. Gibson will be an every-down running back at the FBS level.
Jonathan Echols - Flex Tight End - 2024 - Tennessee commitment
Having seen Echols several times, it was more about learning the finer points of what makes him a recruit numerous programs want. He’s matured quite well during his time at IMG. Just the way he warmed up, went through his reps with teammates, Echols was locked in and ready to play.
He’s also a better route runner than previously known. Once Echols heads off to play for the Vols (or Florida, where let it be known he’s locked in for a June 2 visit), he could be a player that makes an early impact.
Jordan Seaton - OT - 2024
The most improved player in America? Possibly. Seaton went into detail about his diet that helped him go from 330 down to 285 (looks phenomenal), as well as his determination with cardio and the weight room. Full details in an article via All Hurricanes later today.
For now, know that this was a young man that came out to prove he’s the real deal. Seaton also had the best comment of the night, off the cuff, no less.
“It’s about to get real, too. I’m coming back with a six pack (this fall).”
One does not generally think of a left tackle having anything close to a six pack, but this young man was still muscular throughout his shoulders and arms, yet svelte around his stomach.
Just as impressive, Seaton’s quick feet helped him lock out several IMG pass rushers. Great talent; tremendous upside.
David Stone - Defensive Tackle - 2024
He’s likely the best pass rusher for a defensive tackle in the country. Stone’s hand use, first-step quickness, power, and tenacity allowed him to win multiple reps during one-on-ones, as well as getting to the quarterback for multiple sacks during the actual scrimmage.
He’s a 5-star recruit for a reason. Unlike many other top-notch recruits, Stone has stayed motivated and played with an edge. That’s important.
Jayden Jackson - Defensive Tackle - 2024
Sheer power, Jackson showed he has it. Quickness? Yep, Jackson checked that box, too. Most notably, he’s taken to his craft well by using a variety of moves.
Those were some of the reasons that the likes of Ohio State, Miami, Florida, Oklahoma and Texas have made his top five schools from a list of many other prominent options. He recently took a trip to the University of Miami, too.
Thank u for having me loved it there. 🙌🏾 @coach_cristobal @CoachJsalavea pic.twitter.com/wyF8fUjH4p
— Jayden Jackson (@JaydenJackson65) May 16, 2023
Jackson was once again a lot of fun to watch because he’s more than just a big-bodied athlete, he’s a talented defensive tackle that takes each rep seriously.
Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng - Linebacker - 2025
Wow!
His pre-scrimmage workout – including changing directions more like a cornerback than a linebacker – helped to portray what was coming.
Owusu-Boateng was all over the field during drills and the scrimmage. He’s a unique linebacker that could play multiple positions and still help make that unit special. He might be IMG’s best overall player regardless of position.
Instinctive, tenacious, twitchy, fast, and powerful would be some of the adjectives that defined Owusu-Boateng’s performance. Picking which category Owusu-Boateng showcased the most, possibly speed.
He tracked down Gibson from the back side of the formation and did so with a sound tackle. Owusu-Boateng possessed the speed that’s simply rare for a linebacker. Hard to place it into words.
Bottom line, he’s a 5-star talent.
Gavin Nix - Linebacker - 2025
Right off the bat, it's hard to imagine any program has a pair of better linebackers than IMG, even with Nix joining Owusu-Boateng both being juniors this next season.
Like Owusu-Boateng, Nix can really run. He also added more muscle mass from last season and did not lose a step. Watching those two work together – especially during running plays – was awesome!
Nix also played well in space, making moves around offensive linemen to get to the ball carrier. His quick feet might be the best overall asset.
Looking forward to seeing Nix again this fall. He has a tremendous future ahead of him.
Amari Jones - Safety - 2026
He’s gifted enough to play cornerback but has been playing safety with all the talent that IMG has in the secondary (absolutely loaded). Even for a young player, Jones was barking out signals and checks, helping to get his teammates lined up correctly.
That’s rare for a young player. Also nicknamed “Fast Ferrari” for good reason, this young man can run with the speediest of wide receivers. Jones even had an interception in the red zone last night, utilizing his quick feet to jump a route. He will be another national recruit for IMG.
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Fan Nation High school football recruiting analyst covering the state of Florida, as well as across the Southeastern United States and the state of Texas.