"Trench Commander: Power, Precision, and Pre-Snap Genius"

Ryan Walls

@ryanwalls75

IG: @_theryanwalls

6’3, 325lbs | Class of 2028

Murray HS, KY

Ryan isn't one of those linemen who push the pile but a game-wrecker. A relentless presence in the trenches, he’s not just big, he’s explosive off the line, crafty with his hands, and sharp in his reads. What separates Ryan from every other defensive lineman is the way he pairs raw size with elite-level IQ. He diagnoses plays before they develop, recognizing shifts, formations, and tendencies in a way that feels more like a seasoned coordinator than a high school underclassman. He plays with relentless energy, a punishing strike off the snap, and a rare ability to disrupt both run and pass without sacrificing discipline. For a 325-pound defender, his agility and burst are shocking not only holds the line, he is controlling it.

Last season, Ryan had 81 tackles and an interception, showing just how involved and aware he is on every snap. His biggest improvement was in the area of movement with more active hands, quicker feet, and more efficient reactions, which have made him a nightmare for offensive lines trying to establish control. He’s developed into a dynamic enforcer who brings pressure from the inside out, using leverage, strength, and awareness to create chaos in the backfield. His offseason focus has been staying disciplined with hand placement and perfecting his pre-snap vision, identifying tendencies in offensive linemen’s eyes, foot position, or sideline cues. His motivation is to do what it takes to win and elevate everyone around him in the process.

Ryan's football IQ is something special. His ability to detect blocking schemes and locate the ball before it’s even snapped gives him a major edge. His explosiveness and violent hands make him a mismatch every time he lines up. The bigger the challenge, the more fired up he gets, feeding off that energy. Adversity fuels him. He responds by locking in, going back to the basics, and making sure every rep at practice has purpose. That mindset, that commitment to the little things, is the foundation of his dominance.

There’s no doubt where Ryan believes he belongs on a D1 Power 4 or Power 5 roster. But what sets him apart even more is his humility. He knows football is football, and he’s open to any level that believes in his potential. What matters to him is competing, growing, and winning. Coaches can expect a fierce competitor who will sacrifice, fight, and battle in every situation. He’s a team-first warrior who refuses to be outworked.

Ryan lives by a simple but powerful truth: results come when excuses leave. He shows up, puts in the work, and demands the same from those around him.

I assess that Ryan’s rare mix of power, explosiveness, and pre-snap vision makes him a highly valuable asset to any college defense. His ability to disrupt plays from the interior and anchor a defensive line gives him the tools to be a tone-setter at the next level. He’s coachable, committed, and confident. He is ready to impact a program the moment he steps on campus.

Expect Ryan to keep grinding and elevating his game. His blend of size and awareness is already advanced, and as he continues evolving his technique and athleticism, his ceiling only rises. With his mindset, drive, and football IQ, he has the potential to become one of the most dominant defensive linemen in his class, and a future leader at the collegiate level. Stay tuned.