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+---- Thread: *Jimi Desoto Declares for the DSFL Draft (/showthread.php?tid=24070)
*Jimi Desoto Declares for the DSFL Draft - Jimi64 - 07-22-2020
Jimi DeSoto, linebacker out of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, has declared for the DSFL draft as of July 21st. As captain of the Ragin’ Cajuns’ defense in 2019, DeSoto made an impact all over the field. He exhibited a natural instinct to evade blocks and find the ball carrier, but he also possessed the speed and awareness needed to drop back in coverage.
“I’m always ready to do whatever my team needs of me,” he said in an interview following his draft announcement, “and I hope to translate that adaptability and coachability to the next level.”
It’s safe to say many did not expect DeSoto to reach this level of success after a difficult start in college. After arriving at ULL as one of their highest ranked defensive recruits, DeSoto struggled to see the field his first two years. It wasn’t until injuries to the linebacker corps early in the 2018 season did he begin to play consistently, and this time he did not disappoint. He impressed both coaches and teammates with his improved skill as well as his leadership, earning his spot as a team captain in the 2019 season. DeSoto was a key contributor in what would become the university’s most successful season to date, boasting an impressive 11-3 record, including a victory in the LendingTree Bowl. That final game for Desoto made a statement for scouts across the nation, as he recorded seven tackles, two sacks, and a pick six.
Head coach Billy Napier had only praise for DeSoto after the announcement, tweeting “Whoever takes this kid is getting a steal. Jimi was one of my favorite players to coach in my career.”
And where is DeSoto going to end up? Early reports show that the Dallas Birddogs and London Royals have showed interest in the linebacker, but with so much time still left until the draft, it’s anyone’s guess.
“No matter who takes me, I’m going to work hard for them,” DeSoto told the media. “In the end, all that matters to me is the team’s success. I can’t wait to show everyone what I’m capable of.”