On3 5-Star Countdown: No. 14, Missouri EDGE signee Williams Nwaneri

On3 has released its final recruiting ranking for the 2024 class after the completion of the high school football season and all-star competitions. Lee’s Summit (Mo.) North EDGE and Missouri signee Williams Nwaneri is a five-star and the No. 14 overall prospect in the 2024 On300.

The latest edition of On3’s 2024 rankings features 32 five-star players, up from 21 in the penultimate update in November. Of those 32 prospects, 29 are signed to college programs, with three still yet to make their decisions official.

This final update comes after the end of the high school playoffs and postseason All-American games, where top prospects across the country faced off in a week of practices and ended with nationally televised games.

The 6-foot-6, 265-pound Nwaneri committed to Mizzou on August 14, choosing the Tigers over Tennessee, Georgia and Oklahoma.

“What made me feel good about Missouri was comfortability, relationships with the coaching staff and the people there,” Nwaneri told On3. “It has a feeling like somewhere close that I could go and fit in. Staying home is extremely big for me. As a child I watched Missouri, I get to stay home and we can start something new. Having a chance to be that hometown hero and starting a trend at Missouri played into my decision.”

Nwaneri is Missouri’s lone five-star signee in the final 2024 On300.

Williams Nwaneri Scouting Summary

On3 Director of Scouting and Rankings Charles Power writes this about Nwaneri 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.”