On3 5-Star Countdown: No. 1, EDGE Williams Nwaneri

On3 has updated its recruiting ranking for the 2024 class following the completion of the high school regular season for prospects. Lee’s Summit (Mo.) North five-star EDGE and Missouri commit Williams Nwaneri remains the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2024 On300.

The latest edition of On3’s 2024 rankings features 20 five-star players, up one from the previous update in September. Of those 20 prospects, 19 are already committed to college programs. While some recruits may have played their last down as a high schooler, evaluations — both in-person and on tape — are far from over.

This latest ranking sets the table for the important final ranking in January 2024. That last update comes after postseason all-star games, where top prospects across the country face off during a week of practices and end with games in Orlando and San Antonio. Following those evaluations, the 2024 On300 will finish with 32 five-star prospects.

The 6-foot-6, 265-pound Nwaneri committed to Missouri on Aug. 14, choosing the Tigers over Georgia and Oklahoma. He checks in as one of Mizzou’s highest-ranked pledges in program history.

“It was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made,” Nwaneri said of choosing Mizzou. “But I had to do what was best for me. Really, I felt like I was most comfortable with that coaching staff. It’s close to home and all that, so I felt like it was the right decision for me at the time.”

Williams Nwaneri Scouting Summary

On3 Director of Scouting and Rankings Charles Power writes this about him as a prospect:

“The most physically-gifted defensive line prospect in the 2024 cycle. Has an elite frame, measuring in at over 6-foot-6, 260 pounds and an 11-inch hand. Has elite length for the position and moves very well for his size. Flashed some of his high-end potential as a sophomore, but took a step as a junior. Finished his junior campaign with 22 tackles for loss and 12 sacks while helping his team to the state title game. Shows the ability to create disruption from multiple spots on the defensive line. The elite combination of length and athleticism creates mismatches, particularly as an interior pass rusher. Has improved his hands over time, flashing a budding swim move as a junior.

…Possesses the ability to neutralize linemen with his length. Displays very good flexibility with the ability to dip and bend around the edge. A loose, fluid mover in pursuit. Has the range and athleticism to run down skill players from behind. Improving his technical skill at the position but has immense upside and capacity for improvement. Can also continue to improve as a run defender and edge setter. Could project to a number of spots along the defensive front including along the edge, but looks to be a defensive lineman long-term given his frame and potential to add substantial mass.”