Keli Lawson, the Hokies' former four-star recruit linebacker, is beginning to garner national acclaim as he was recently included on The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman’s College Football Freaks List 2023, which was released on Tuesday.
“One of the gems of the Hokies’ 2021 signing class, Lawson flashed some of that potential in his debut season last fall, making 23 tackles and also had an interception,” Feldman wrote. “Tech is hoping he can take another big step in 2023. The 6-5, 220-pounder with an 82-inch wingspan’s athleticism is intriguing. This offseason, Lawson broad-jumped 11-2, hit 39 inches on the vertical and clocked a 4.6 40.”
Lawson has the physical tools and build to be a menacing, game-wrecking backer who can fly all around the football field. Not to mention, he has a clocked 4.6 40-time, along with a 39-inch vertical and an 11-foot 2-inch broad jump. These measurables are indeed impressive, and Lawson started to show flashes of his potential last season.
In his first season, the redshirt sophomore accrued 23 tackles and an interception while only making one start. Head Coach Brent Pry and Defensive Coordinator Chris Marve are ready for Lawson to make that jump and assert himself as a presence on this defense. Lawson has already made waves this camp, receiving praise from Coach Pry for his ability to "eat up ground" and shut down plays before they even happen. For a defense that gave up an average of 24.7 points per game, ranked 114th in turnovers nationally, and possessed a -6 turnover margin, adjustments have to be made.
To combat this, the team has focused heavily on forcing turnovers in camp and getting after the football. Lawson is one of these players who can genuinely turn the tide for this defense, as he always seems to be floating around the football. With another cycle of camp and his maturation, his strides and growth are evident.
His imposing physique, combined with his exceptional agility and anticipation skills, hint at the menace he could become. Amidst a backdrop of defensive challenges, Lawson's emergence offers hope and excitement for both the coaching staff and fans alike.
Read Bruce’s full list at the link to discover other ‘Freaks’ in college football to keep an eye on!