On3 5-Star Countdown: No. 16, DL David Hicks

On3 has released its final recruiting ranking for the 2023 class after the completion of the high school football season and all-star competitions. Katy (Texas) Paetow defensive lineman and Texas A&M signee David Hicks ranks No. 16 overall amongst five-stars in the 2023 On300. 

The latest edition of On3’s 2023 rankings features 32 five-star players, up from 26 in the previous 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.

David Hicks Scouting Summary

The following is the On3 Scouting Summary for David Hicks:

Physically-developed defensive lineman with advanced power along with length and quickness. Possesses a big frame with a muscled build and an 80-inch wingspan at 6-foot-4. Has brute strength which he pairs with initial quickness to create steady disruption along the line of scrimmage. Consistently shows quick and powerful hands at the point of attack with some advanced pass rush technique for a young defensive lineman. Very much a power player at this point in his development, but plays with some nuance and technical skill. Working at both defensive end and defensive tackle as a junior at a powerhouse program in Texas’ highest classification. A strong, but not elite athlete. Turned in dominant showings at college camps prior to his junior season.

On3 compares Hicks’ style of play to former Auburn defensive lineman and current Atlanta Falcon Marlon Davidson.