Pinellas County's Last Lines Of Defense: Unveiling the Top Defensive Backs for the Upcoming Spring

Jan 31, 2024

Pinellas County is gearing up for an electrifying spring, and the spotlight is shining on the defensive backfield. From interceptions to hard-hitting tackles, these standout athletes are set to make waves on the gridiron and bring recruiters to Pinellas County. Let's dive into the profiles of the top defensive backs who will be making a significant impact in the upcoming season.

### **1. Christopher "CJ" Cresser (Clearwater Academy International)**

CJ Cresser is the hottest recruiting prospect in the area when it comes to defensive back. Last season Cresser had 64 tkls, 10 tfl along with 2 ints. His combination of size and speed are what recruiters are looking for

-Class: 2026
- Height: 6'1" | Weight: 171 lbs
- Offers from Western Michigan, Pitt, Maryland

**Analysis:**
CJ Cresser, a rising star from Clearwater Academy International, is catching the attention of recruiters nationwide. With a blend of size, speed, and exceptional coverage skills, Cresser is poised to be a defensive force. Keep an eye on his journey as he navigates the next season with high expectations and collegiate interest with his defensive backfield mates Forrest Loving and TJ Wilson two more 2026 prospects who will soon be getting attention. Loving currently has one offer from Bethune Cookman.

### **2. Nelson Sparrow (Calvary Christian)**

Hovering — Last season Sparrow had 44 tackles and 7 ints on a defense full of stars led by Callahan Blair and Daylan Moore two D-1 signees. Sparrow will be asked to duplicate his performance plus more

-Class: 2025
- Height: 6'1" | Weight: 170 lbs
- Offers from Army, Dartmouth

**Analysis:**
Sharing the spotlight with Cresser is Nelson Sparrow, a defensive maestro from Calvary Christian. Sparrow's ability to make plays on the ball and provide versatility in the secondary makes him a key asset. As the team undergoes changes, Sparrow's leadership will be pivotal as he may be asked to help fill holes created by transfers

### **3. Kevin Davis (Boca Ciega High School)**

Senior Kako — Kevin Davis out of Boca Ciega High led the county last year with 7 ints. He recently received an offer from Bethune Cookman and is teamed up in the backfield with other athletes such Walter Flournory , Armani Sullivan, .and Dontrez Young.

-Class:2025
- Height: 5'11" | Weight: 165 lbs
- Offer from Bethune Cookman

**Analysis:**
Leading the county in interceptions last season, Kevin Davis is a ballhawk ready for another stellar campaign. Davis's knack for creating turnovers and lockdown coverage adds a layer of intimidation to Boca Ciega's defense. Expect him to be a game-changer and to have improved on his skills to bring more of a well rounded backfield for Myron Dillard's Pirates.

### **4. Bari Williams & Darrin Townsend (Largo High School)**

st joseph prep varsity football team — Junior Bari Williams and Sophmore Darrin Townsend out of Largo who combined for 8 ints and 118 tackles last year will be looked upon to provide a spark to a team who always has new players along with a healthy mix of experience ready to come in season after season.

-Class: Williams (2025), Townsend (2026)
- Bari Williams: Tough defensive back, playmaker on defense and special teams. Offer: Campbell

- Darrin Townsend: Lengthy safety with high potential.

**Analysis:**
Largo High School boasts a dynamic duo in Williams and Townsend. Their combined interceptions and tackles make them a formidable pair in the secondary. As Largo aims for success, these two defensive backs will play crucial roles.

### **5. Camden Smith (East Lake High School)**

Camden Smith out of East Lake , another lengthy player at 6'0 and 165 pounds who takes on the #1 receiver for East Lake every week as a sophomore. Another player with a high ceiling Smith was a 2nd team all phmg defensive back with 37 tkls , 4 INTS and will be a bright spot along with Will Mirabella and Eli Milian for this East Lake squad. Smith will be taking on the #1 receiver for the next two seasons which should make him better. Looking for a big spring from him.

**Profile:**
- Height: 6'0" | Weight: 165 lbs

**Analysis:**
East Lake's Camden Smith, a rising sophomore, embraces the challenge of shutting down opposing team's top receivers. His length and determination make him a defensive standout. With a promising future ahead, Smith is set to make significant contributions.

### **Honorable Mentions:**

- **Dontrez Young (Boca Ciega)**
- **Jaylin Lee (Lakewood)**
- **Damari Green (Lakewood)**
- **Jacob Daniels (Gibbs)**
- **Ge'Land Calvin (St. Petersburg)**

Don’t forget to stretch. — Calvin is a returning player Saint Pete will be relying on to take his game to the next level to help the team reach the next level. Calvin led the Devils with 4 INTS this season

**Conclusion:**
These defensive backs bring a blend of skill, athleticism, and determination to the field. As the season unfolds, their performances will undoubtedly shape the landscape of Pinellas County football. Stay tuned for thrilling matchups and standout plays from these dynamic defensive playmakers.Lookout tomorrow as we feature defensive back CJ Cresser on PHMG Weekly at 8PM