Top 10: Which Fort Worth area defensive backs should you keep an eye on in 2023?

The Texas high school football season will start soon, and top defenders are preparing to make game changing plays. Which players will stand out?

These defensive backs have tools to have a dominant season. Whether they continue their individual dominance, lead their team to success, or have a breakout season, you’ll want to keep an eye on them.

Here are 10 defensive backs to watch:

1. Landyn Cleveland

Safety, Mansifeld Legacy

Landyn Cleveland is the top defensive back to watch for good reason. With a 6-foot, 185 pound frame, the Oklahoma State commit has the athleticism and awareness to have the upper hand in one on one coverage.

When needed, he can apply pressure to the quarterback with elite speed. His elite reaction time allows him to make plays quickly and effectively, and he hits hard.

In 2022, Cleveland recorded 116 tackles and three interceptions. Be on the lookout for him to continue his stellar play as a senior.

2. Chris Johnson Jr.

Cornerack, Aledo

Aledo has an all around, excellent defense, and Chris Johnson Jr. is one of the focal points. Johnson Jr. is 247Sports’ No. 41 cornerback in the class of 2024.

As a junior, he tallied 30 tackles, two interceptions and had two fumble recoveries within a stacked, state championship winning defense in Class 5A D1.

3. Fredrick Dotie

Safety, Kennedale

Fredrick Dotie transferred from North Mesquite, joining Kennedale High School. What’s in store for Dotie as a member of the Wildcats?

Dotie, a North Texas commit, is a stellar addition to a defense that was already impressive. Dotie is versatile with the ability to thrive as a safety and an outside linebacker. His instincts and dedication stand out.

4. David Kabongo

Safety, Trophy Club Nelson

This Trophy Club Nelson defense means business, and David Kabongo will be one of the staples. He’s one of four Oklahoma State class of 2024 commits in the Dallas-Fort Worth area; Cowboys fans will want to keep up with his senior season.

With a 5-foot-11, 180 pound frame, Kabongo does an excellent job of ensuring defenders fail to break free while also limiting completions. In his junior season, he had 64 tackles and two interceptions.

5. Ashton Wiliams

Safety, Trophy Club Nelson

Like Kabongo, Ashton Williams will also be a key contributor to the well rounded Trophy Club Nelson defense. He’s committed to Tulsa, and is set for another productive year.

In 2022, he made 72 tackles, nine of which were for a loss. In addition, he recorded three sacks and forced two fumbles.

6. Kris Wokomah

Safety, Arlington Bowie

Kris Wokomah, a Baylor commit, is set for one last run with the Volunteers. Standing at 6-foot and 180 pounds, Wokomah is aggressive and relentless on the field. He isn’t afraid to take risks.

He thrives in all aspects, but his ability to track down ball carriers and make effective tackles stands out. He had 67 tackles as a junior. Will he exceed that as a senior?

7. Dedaunte Scott

Cornerback, Kennedale

Dedaunte Scott is a top cornerback with a lengthy 6-foot-1, 175 pound frame and has offers from Cincinnati, Utah and Pittsburgh to name a few. He took a big jump in his junior season, recording 31 tackles and 12 pass break ups.

Will he continue climbing? Scott has yet to commit, so keep an eye out for his decision.

8. Elijah Pratt

Safety, Mansfield Timberview

Pratt is a top safety in the class of 2025, finishing his sophomore season with 24 tackles and nine pass breakups. Pratt was a first team all-district player in District 4-5A D1 and still has lots of room to improve.

He has a 5-foot-11, 165 pound frame, but has time to improve size and strength. He has offers from SMU, Houston, Penn State, Arizona and Central Michigan.

9. David Moore

Cornerback, North Crowley

David Moore will be a big factor in a Panther defense that’s set to be dangerous. Moore, a transfer from Fort Worth Brewer, is an Arkansas State commit.

He’s rated by 247Sports as the No. 182 cornerback in the class of 2024. North Crowley head coach Ray Gates said Moore is one of the best defenders he’s seen in his career.

10. Keith Guidry

Safety, Arlington Heights

The Yellowjackets had a phenomenal showing in 2022, winning 10 games, and senior Keith Guidry is a top returner. With Curtis James being promoted to head coach, will Guidry continue and upward trend and lead the defense?

The Yellowjackets will go toe to toe with Grapevine, who went undefeated in District 4-5A D2.