"Built for Collision: A Relentless Defensive Force in the Making"

Kayden Hickman

@Hick69425Kayden

6’0, 205lbs, Class of 2027

Searcy High School (AR)

Kayden is a downhill enforcer with a fierce motor and a violent edge to his game. His versatility is rare as he is able to drop back in coverage and disrupt passing lanes, yet fully capable of flying downhill with explosive speed to meet runners head-on. What separates him from every other player at his position is his work ethic, his refusal to take plays off, and the sheer persistence he plays with. He is relentless, aggressive, and fearless in the box, a true tone-setter who brings physicality, effort, and high-level football IQ to the field every snap.

Before the play starts, Kayden is already processing the action. He keys in on quarterback eyes, reads lineman stances, and sets himself up to be one step ahead before the ball is even snapped. That mental preparation allows him to attack with confidence and anticipation. Coaches can expect a dominant presence who plays with controlled chaos, fast, physical, and unafraid to initiate contact. Every time he steps on the field, he brings the kind of intensity and discipline that fuels great defenses.

This season, Kayden racked up 70 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 6 quarterback hurries, and 3 pass breakups, all in just seven games. That’s a major improvement from last year’s 30 tackles and 2 TFLs in ten games. His biggest improvement was his understanding of the game, how to read plays, show patience, and position himself to make the right play at the right time. This offseason, he’s locked in on elevating his skills, pushing himself daily in the weight room, and staying mentally and physically ready for every opportunity. The motivation driving him is a powerful combination of competitive fire, unshakable self-belief, and senior teammates who challenged him to chase greatness and keep working.

That fire inside comes from knowing what he wants, D1 football, and he’s willing to outwork anyone to get there. Kayden embraces adversity like fuel, staying locked in and adjusting where needed to ensure success. He visualizes his dominance before every game and believes in trusting the process. His advice for younger players is simple but powerful: train hard, perfect your craft, and stay patient.

What makes a college stand out to Kayden is its strong facilities, elite rehab and recovery resources, and a program that offers true development. He’s not interested in settling, but he’s gunning for the highest level unless it’s absolutely not an option. The best coaching advice he’s ever received came after a playoff loss, when his coach reminded him that his time is coming, he just has to keep putting in the work and stay ready for the opportunity.

I assess that Kayden brings a powerful blend of toughness, intelligence, and adaptability that is tailor-made for the next level. His ability to play sideline-to-sideline, read plays pre-snap, and bring high-impact hits makes him a dynamic threat defensively. He understands leverage, uses great angles, and doesn’t just react, he anticipates. His work ethic, paired with a relentless drive to improve, sets him up to become a difference-maker at the college level.

A physical enforcer with a developing all-around skill set, Kayden has the tools and temperament to be a valuable asset to any D1 program. His mix of aggression, mental preparation, and determination positions him to be more than just a contributor but a game-changer.

With continued growth and consistent opportunity, expect Kayden to emerge as one of the top defensive standouts in his class. His ceiling is high, and he’s climbing toward it with every rep. Stay tuned.