Florida Prospects continues to bring you some of the most gifted athletes that you may have never heard of throughout the state, but who could easily be a Division-1 prospect. This week's sleeper of the week we introduce to you is Gerard Oxendine defensive end from St. Augustine High School.

Oxendine is 6-2, 195lbs and runs the forty yard dash in the 4.4-4.5 range. He also bench press 285lbs. He is also no stranger to opposing offenses. Last year, he finished with an astounding 107 tackles, 15 sacks, and a host of tackle for losses last season. His play helped St. Augustine win the class 3A championship last year.

“I worked really hard last year going into the fall season. I knew I would win the starting job because of my hard work ethic, speed, and athletic ability. My motor never stops running and I'm an impact player coming off the edge.” Oxendine said.

Oxendine is one of those long and rangy defensive ends that make it nearly impossible for opposing teams to game plan for because of his relentless pursuit for the ball. He has a knack for running plays down from the backside if you try to run away from him, and he lives in your backfield before your quarterback can hand the ball off or throw a pass.

Oxendine is quick to point out that he patterns his game after Jason Taylor and Mario Williams because of their intensity and strength off of the edge when they're playing.

Speed and athleticism runs in the family as he has two cousins Rai-Shawn Wilson, and Kevis Streeter are both key players for the yellow jackets also.

“Rai-Shawn is kind of the reason why I started playing football in the first place.” said Oxendine “He challenged me to come out when we was in little league, and I've been playing defensive end every since then.”

Over the summer, Oxendine states that he has been working hard with his position coach to build on the success he had last year playing his first full season at defensive end. He plans on picking up where he left off last year in the state game accounting for seven tackles, two sacks, and two fumble recoveries.

Colleges like West Virginia, North Carolina State, Virginia Tech, and Bowling Green are starting to take notice of the long-armed player, but he has no clear cut offers as of yet. With his play and work ethic, Oxendine expects that to change by the time the season starts.

“I'm looking for any program who's willing to give me a fair chance at competing for playing time, and my ability to get sacks and run down plays for losses is what I'm bringing to any college who's seriously interested in recruiting me.” Oxendine said.

Florida Prospects will keep you posted on this player throughout the year.

If you think you are an athlete who is not getting enough exposure send an email Michael Holloway at mholloway@floridaprospects.com