Knighton Looks For Big 2008

Check out Stepping Stones!! TexasPrepInsider goes in depth with some of the top Class of 2009 recruits as you get an early introduction to the big names for next season! Today we talk with Longview DE Chris Knighton. If you don't have a premium membership to TexasPrepInsider, you are missing out!!!

Keep your eye on Longview DE Chris Knighton in 2008, the 6’2 235 pound senior to be could emerge as one of the top defensive prospects in the state. Knighton who has excellent speed and quickness off the ball spent the majority of the past two seasons playing on the Longview offensive line helping the Lobos to a 12-2 record and a trip to the Class 5A State Quarter-Finals.

In 2007, Knighton earned second team all 12-5A honors on the offensive line while seeing spot duty on defense as a specialty pass rusher. “I think my biggest strength is my ability to rush the passer, but I think I am pretty good against the run too,” said Knighton. Chris says this off-season his main focus will be to put on some good weight and increase his speed and work on footwork.

Oklahoma looks to be the early favorite to land the pass rushing end from East Texas, but Alabama, Oklahoma State, UTEP and Rice are also in the mix. Knighton doesn’t have any specific plans for camps this summer but he does plan on making three or four camps.

Knighton who plans on majoring in Law likely won’t make a decision on his future until after the 2008 season. For 2008 Chris has big plans as with Longview dropping to Class 4A after being a Class 5A power for such a long time could be a state title contender. “I’d like to go out with a state title and for me personally I want 15-20 sacks.”