Dominating Catholic League opponents is one of the simplest recruiting strategies ever; college success is in store. High school football in Southern California consistently produces some of the top players in the country. The defensive end at JSerra Catholic is a shining example. At 6’5″ and 250 pounds, he possesses a remarkable wingspan of 80 inches, which gives him a strong base for his defensive line position. With 24 offers already in place, college scouts concur that the defensive end makes a difference. “They love that I can play off the edge and inside, like a hybrid. They love my get off and my physicality. They love my speed and power,” he remarked. Now, Bill Belichick’s son is keeping an eye on that great prospect.

With a 6-7 record at the end of the 2024 season, UNC was ranked 66th out of 134 teams. Their defense allowed an average of 28.2 points per game, placing them 91st in the country. The defense suffered throughout the season, particularly in passing defense, where they placed last in the nation. Now, Bill Belichick’s son has taken the charge. Steve Belichick, UNC’s defensive coordinator, has so far done all in his power to steal the potential defensive end from JSerra Catholic. The interesting thing, though, is that two days after Dan Lanning visited the athlete, Bill Belichick’s son sent him an offer. What a bold stance!

After getting an offer from UNC, the elite prospect, Simote Katoanga wrote on his X, “After a great visit @UNCFootball, I’m blessed to receive an offer from the University of North Carolina! #AG2G #GoHeels.” For North Carolina, that appears to be a favorable answer. “Not so fast, my friend,” however, might be the sentiment at UNC, as many schools are on the radar. Despite this, Bill Belichick is their bestseller this year.

But if we put it bluntly, Belichick’s NFL influence is like a chef’s kiss when it comes to hiring. Before he even enters the room, his reputation performs half the work. However, does Katoanga merit this offer?

Although Katoanga’s primary position as a sophomore was edge rusher, his physique might allow a move inside at the college level. He stands out on the field because of his intense drive and unwavering pursuit of the football. He is renowned for his tenacity in run support and exhibits versatility in pass-rushing, playing as a tackle, or coming off the edge. Also, he is able to push upfield while taking on blocks and holding his ground.

Prominent CFB programs have taken notice of Katoanga’s skill. Schools, including Nebraska, A&M, USC, Vols, MSU, Georgia, and more, have extended offers to him since June 2024. Due in large part to a strong defense, JSerra has a 4-0 record, and his performances have been crucial to the team’s success thus far this season. Katoanga has racked up 12 tackles, one sack, and a forced turnover in just 4 games.

Do not assume, however, that Katoanga has already made up his mind. The standout defensive end has a favorable impression of Dann Lanning’s Oregon, as well.

Wondering about the elite prospects’ opinions on Dann Lanning

Dan Lanning has turned the Ducks’ 2025 recruiting class into a nationwide sensation. The Ducks landed commitments from 19 top prospects on National Signing Day, moving their class to the third-highest national ranking, behind only Alabama and Texas.

With 4 five-star recruits and sixteen four-star prospects, this outstanding class is the most star-studded in Oregon’s history. Lanning highlighted the importance of “character and size and speed, the things that matter in football,” highlighting the all-encompassing strategy for creating a team capable of winning a title. This recruitment success was notable for the flipping of 2 five-star standouts: QB Jaron Sagapolutele, who had previously committed to Cal, and CB Na’eem Offord, who de-committed from OSU.

And now, it currently appears that Lanning can outbid North Carolina for the 2026 top prospect Katoanga. The DE commented after his Oregon visit, “It was great, got to get some work in with Coach Tuioti. Also got to compete with some great players and learn new techniques. Oregon is always a great visit for myself. The weather was nice and getting to ball with some of my boys was pretty sweet.”

“Appreciate @CoachDanLanning and @CoachTuioti92 stopping by the school to see my family and I! #AG2G #GoDucks” was the caption for an X post published by Catholic’s top prospect. The question now is whether the Ducks’ head coach or Bill Belichick’s son can hijack him. No matter who gets him, Katoanga will undoubtedly liven up that squad.