Film Don't Lie | Owen Wafle
Al Washington is making waves at Notre Dame. He’s not just working on closing out an outstanding 2023 defensive line class. He already has the foundation in place for the 2024 D-line.
They recently added Brandon Davis-Swain as the first 2024 commit and Washington has followed that up with another 4-star interior prospect, Owen Wafle. Stating a player “gets after it” can be an overused term, but it feels too appropriate not to mention with Wafle. He’s a fun player to watch and I could easily see him developing into a favorite for Notre Dame fans.
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 270
Projected Position: Either defensive tackle spot, possibly 4i defensive end
ISD Grade: 90 (4-star)
National Average Grade: 90.0 (4-star)
What he does best:
He has a really good first step and it helps him win off the ball. He has the potential to be disruptive as a one-gap penetrator up front.
His motor is elite. He plays like he wants to get involved in every play and deliver violence. Two guys weren’t going to stop him from finishing this play for a sack.
Wafle is a powerful player who can run through blocks like he is drive blocking a defender on offense. That previous GIF showed it and there are numerous other examples of him being a bully at the point of attack and as a bull rusher.
What he needs to improve:
He needs to get better at establishing his hands and bringing that with his feet. When others can match his power, the hands will make the difference.
He’s mostly power and little finesse as a pass rusher. He doesn’t consistently work an edge or work moves. He needs to have more of a plan when rushing the passer.
What’s his ceiling?
I can already tell that he will be one of my favorites in Notre Dame’s ‘24 class. That type of motor is rare and the scary part is that he has the kind of frame that would suggest he should be in the 300 range once he is in a college strength and conditioning program.
I see him as someone who could play either defensive tackle spot, but I think his best fit might eventually be as a 1-tech nose tackle. It also isn’t the realm of possibility that he could play end in a three down front and Notre Dame has been landing several of players who could also do that. Wafle has the potential to develop into a quality starter for the Irish and should be a valuable rotation player.
Who he could be:
Former Stanford defensive tackle Harrison Phillips (the former ND player he reminds me of is Derek Landri)
Men’s UA Green Sideline Pullover Hoodie
