right now," Romeo said with a smile. "I
don't know about Clemson or anyone
else, but right now Notre Dame is at
the top."
And that made perfect sense. Notre
Dame was the first school to recruit the
Rivals250 prospect and the first one to
make him feel like he was part of the
team.
"Clemson was real close and Geor-
gia was real close, but I felt like every-
thing was right with Notre Dame," the
younger Okwara said.
Although he is currently listed by
Rivals.com as the No. 16 outside line-
backer in the country — as well as the
No. 6 recruit in North Carolina and the
No. 179 overall prospect nationally —
Okwara is in line to become the highest-
rated defensive end to sign with Notre
Dame since four-star Isaac Rochell inked
with the program back in 2013.
Rivals.com Mid-Atlantic recruiting
FILM ANALYSIS
Strengths
High motor player that will not give up in pur-
suit … Has a quick first step, but is also flexible,
which allows him to move sideline to sideline
… Has played everything from a weakside line-
backer to a three-tech tackle in high school … His
6-4 frame forces quarterbacks check the "alley"
twice before passing … Sound tackler — espe-
cially in space … Can take on a double-team and
is serviceable against the run … Will make reads
and sees game well.
Weaknesses
Isn't the most physical prospect at the line
of scrimmage … Needs to improve leverage …
Hands aren't the best at point of attack … Plays
to his advantage, which is speed, but is limited
in pass-rushing moves if it isn't to the outside
… Will need to add strength … Has a knack for
getting lost amongst the shuffle if play is coming
right at him.
— Andrew Ivins
