What's Happening?
KD Cotton, a three-star safety from Weddington High School in Matthews, North Carolina, has made a significant impact at the 2025 Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas. The annual high school all-star game features top talent from North and South Carolina. Cotton, who has committed to Duke University, was highlighted as one of the standout performers during the second day of practice. Despite being considered undersized at 5'9" and 175 pounds, Cotton's instincts, technique, and game awareness were praised by Rivals' Charles Power. Cotton's performance included an interception against NC State quarterback commit Jacob Smith, showcasing his potential to contribute to Duke's secondary under head coach Manny Diaz.
Why It's Important?
Cotton's performance at the Shrine Bowl is
significant for Duke University as it highlights the potential of their incoming recruits. As a three-star recruit, Cotton was not highly ranked nationally, but his skills demonstrated at the Shrine Bowl suggest he could be an immediate asset to Duke's defense. This development is crucial for Duke's football program, which is looking to strengthen its roster with talented players who can make an impact early in their college careers. Cotton's ability to perform against top high school talent indicates that he may exceed expectations and contribute significantly to the team's success.
What's Next?
Following his impressive showing at the Shrine Bowl, KD Cotton will likely continue to prepare for his transition to college football at Duke University. The coaching staff, led by Manny Diaz, will be keen to integrate Cotton into their defensive schemes, potentially utilizing his skills as a nickel or safety. As Cotton joins the team, his development will be closely monitored to see if he can translate his high school success to the collegiate level. Duke fans and analysts will be watching to see how Cotton's presence influences the team's defensive strategies in the upcoming season.
