:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60264677/usa_today_10501500.0.jpg)
I hope everyone is having a safe and happy Fourth of July. Today we are a little more than 8 weeks form kickoff, so we are featuring a player that has shifted from linebacker to defensive end.
Simisi Fakasiieki - So.
Compton, CA (Dominguez HS)
6’3”, 260 pounds
Defensive End
2018 Projection: Reserve at Defensive End
Fakasiieki is the type of player that really shows how well the new coaching staff can develop players. He was recruited by Darrell Hazell and was probably the least heralded player of the 2016 class. He came in as a 225 pound linebacker, but has now bulked up to 260 pounds and moved to defensive end.
In his first two years he hasn’t played a snap. One of those was a redshirt year, but with the losses due to graduation he could have more of a role this coming season. His goal is likely to crack the two deep at defensive end and find a way to make an impact. He is one of only four scholarship defensive ends returning from last year, along with Giovanni Reviere, Kai Higgins, and Robert McWilliams III.
He out forth good numbers in high school though. He led his team in tackles as a freshman and as a senior he was All-League with 80 tackles, 50 solo, two interceptions a pair of fumble recoveries and four touchdowns.