On3 5-Star Countdown: No. 20, WR Shelton Sampson Jr.

With the high school football season fully underway, On3 has released its latest rankings update for the 2023 recruiting cycle. Following the most recent release in mid-July, prospects have attended camps and now put multiple games worth of performances on tape. Checking as the No. 20 prospect in the 2023 class and earning five-star status is Baton Rouge (La.) Catholic wide receiver and LSU commit Shelton Sampson Jr. He jumped from No. 21 in the previous ranking.

The senior season is undoubtedly the most important part of the entire recruiting process. In addition to making final official visits and commitment decisions, prospects have the best chance to showcase what they will ultimately project as on the college level. Prospects will have the rest of their senior campaigns evaluated, along with performances at postseason all-star games, prior to On3’s final rankings release this winter.

The latest edition of On3’s 2023 rankings features 23 players with a coveted five-star rating, up from 21 in the last release. Of the 23 five-stars, 15 are already committed to a college program.

Shelton Sampson Jr. Scouting Summary

Big-play wide receiver with one of the best combinations of vertical speed and catch radius in the 2023 cycle. Clocked a sub 4.4-second 40-yard dash at 6-foot-4 prior to his junior season. Uses that speed to create separation on downfield routes with regularity. Pairs the long speed with advanced ball skills. Shows the ability to leap over defenders to high-point the ball in contested situations. Comes down with some fantastic one-handed and diving grabs. A younger prospect for the cycle who continues to show improvement over time.

On3 compares Sampson’s style of play to former Georgia Tech and NFL wide receiver Demaryius Thomas.