74 Alex Kosinski
Posted: Sun Jun 21, 2015 6:09 am
Kosinski is a 6-4, 278, Freshman offensive lineman from Redwood HS, Wilmete, IL. A 2 year team captain and all-conference player Kosinski enrolled early and has a head start on the rest of the class. Here's AZ Desert Swarm's analysis of Kosinski from signing day:
Quotes from signing day:Like the rest of the 2014 recruiting class, Alex showcases great effort. This is especially true in his run blocking. While Alex may not be the most technically sound player in this year o-line class, that does not stop him as a football player. As a run blocker, he showcases tremendous leg drive, as he never stops chopping his legs before or after the initial contact. Although he displays good stance and keeping his legs under him, Kosinski's pad level can become too high; more than one would like to see, causing a stalemate in the trenches. Yet, if Kosinski fires off with proper technique and hand placement, game over for whomever he's blocking, as he wins those battles every time.
Even at his size (6-4 285lbs.), Alex is light enough on his feet to mirror pass-rushers. However, he can become too eager and lunge at defenders, losing his balance and control. Alex possesses good arm length that allows him to deliver a respectable punch. But once Kosinski learns to keep his hands up and ready to deliver a punch more consistently, opposing defensive lines will have their hands full.
“Alex is such a great kid and football player. He was the best kid I have ever coached. Above being a great football player, he is a quality human being. Not only can he tear heads off on the football field, we also call him gentle giant because he enjoyed working with the disabled kids at our high school. He has so much drive and determination, and so many more qualities that, as coaches, you hope to instill in players. He’s a good role model and he understands his place in leading others and making everyone around him better.” – Redwood HS Coach Corky Henderson
“Alex was able to early enroll and is in school now and working out with the team. He’s a smart, competitive and hard-working guy with a lot of upside.” – UA Coach Jim Michalczik
74 is also the total number of pass attempts the team had against California last year. For some reason the last pass is the one that sticks in my memory.