Attending the eight postseason all-star games I do every season, there are certain programs that tend to have a prospect or two that pop up and stand out during the circuit. I always make a point to circle back with that program during the season to get ahead of the curve on the next prospect coming down the pipeline.
Over the last four years, I've noticed that the New Haven Chargers have consistently pumped out talent. Two years ago it was quarterback Connor Degenhardt, and last year it was both tight end Kevin Foelsch and kick returner Dev Holmes, both of whom became the talk of the all-star games they attended.
This season it will be running back Christopher Ais coming from that Chargers program who'll garner a lot of attention this postseason. Ais has been a workhorse for the Chargers the last two seasons and is off to a great start to the 2024 campaign. This year he ran for 227 yards and two scores against Bentley, ripping off long runs throughout the game.
Coming from the Division II ranks, offensive skill position prospects must be able to showcase transferable skills that you can see would translate at a higher level and on Sundays. I think he showcases those abilities and skills, so in this week's edition of The Hunt Report, I wanted to spotlight Ais, as well as some other prospects who meet that same criteria that hail from the Division II ranks.
RB Christopher Ais
- Height: 5-foot-11
- Weight: 210 pounds
- College: New Haven
- Next game: Southern Connecticut State (Oct. 19)
Ais has such a fluid running style that allows him to be able to maximize his speed and acceleration, both of which help him pull away from defenders in the open field. As an inside/outside zone runner, he does a fantastic job of pressing the outside before making a smooth cut, accelerating through the hole and then taking off down the field. Ais is a well-built runner who looks the part and plays the part of a pro back. Personally, I believe he is flying under the radar.
TE Deontay Campbell
- Height: 6-foot-4
- Weight: 245 pounds
- College: Missouri Southern State
- Next game: Washburn (Oct. 19)
A Reese's Senior Bowl watch list guy, Campbell reminds me a lot of current Indianapolis Colts tight end Alec Ogletree. He's got good athleticism and the ability to contort/adjust his body to get in position to make the catch. He's excellent at playing above the rim, showcasing those big oven mitts to make the reception. The confidence and focus he shows in that regard is what make it easy for the QB to target him in crucial situations. I think he's underrated after the catch as well.
WR Max McLeod
- Height: 6-foot-1
- Weight: 200 pounds
- College: Colorado School of Mines
- Next game: Adams State (Oct 19)
McLeod is one of the more accomplished receivers in Division II. He's finished with double-digit touchdowns in every season and is well on his way to that this year, as he already has seven scores. Where he causes problems for opposing defenders is in his efficiency within his approach. There's no wasted movement or effort. His route running is precise, he showcases the late hands and has no wasted movements in his giddy-up after the catch.
CB Dolani Robinson
- Height: 6-foot-1
- Weight: 193 pounds
- College: University of Regina
- Next game: University of Saskatchewan (Oct 19)
Robinson is a solid zone corner who has the patient eyes for the position that you look for. He's able to keep a good perspective on both the receiver and the quarterback, which puts him in a good position to make the play or to take a potential play away. He's got the arm length to be able to effectively feel out the receiver, redirect him at times and to always slow down the progress of the route. When asked to press, his feet and hands are in unison, which gives him the opportunity to compete/win the rep.
