Liberty North 2018 defensive end Devin Rice is among the Kansas City area’s most under-rated college prospects entering his senior season and has shot up college coaches boards throughout the past several months.

At 6’5, 220 pounds, Rice has the size and athleticism that college coaches look for in defensive ends. He is explosive off the ball, brings a strong pass rush and uses his hands well to fend off blockers.

Rice has a big motor and made several clutch, big plays for the Eagles last season. He finished with 10 tackles for los, including a team-high five sacks.

He says the team’s biggest game a year ago was against Staley, and despite an Eagle loss, Rice performed well against some of the toughest competition Liberty North faced all season.

This spring and summer, Rice has worked hard on improving his footwork and his overall strength.

He didn’t begin playing football until sixth-grade, but says he, “Had good coaches to support me and taught me a lot. I wasn’t a very good athlete at the time.”

Liberty North is slated for a rematch against Staley when they open the season on Aug. 18.

“I’m excited to play against everyone all the teams we play this year have good talent,” Rice said.

Rice has heard from several schools, including Mizzou, Purdue, Iowa State, Memphis and Kansas and currently holds an offer from NCAA Division II program Missouri Western.