From Last Word on Soccer, by Benny Lafortune
The 2017 MLS SuperDraft is just about two weeks away. That being the case, it is time to start to look at some of the best prospects of this year’s crop. The ten players selected are thought to be some of the most talented of this year’s draft class. This group will most certainly see their name called up in Los Angeles.
10 Players to Look Out for in 2017 MLS SuperDraft
The players are ranked in order of position.
Chris Odoi-Atsem, Right Back (Maryland)
A versatile option down the wing, Chris Odoi-Atsem has played a variety of positions in his career. However, it is most likely that he will be settling as a right back at the professional level. Odoi-Atsem was part of a Maryland back line that matched a school-record 5 consecutive shutouts in 2016. A four-year starter on his hometown Terrapins, Odoi-Atsem will provide speed and a willingness to work up and down the flank.
Reagan Dunk, Right Back/Center Back (Denver)
Reagan Dunk was a major component of a University of Denver program that went undefeated in the regular season the last two years. That Denver team banked itself on defense, evidenced by their 14 shutouts this past season. Dunk can contribute offensively also; his 18 career assists rank third in Denver’s Division 1 history.
Miles Robinson, Center Back (Syracuse)
MLS is yet to announce the Generation Adidas roster for this year’s draft. However, it is widely believed that Miles Robinson will be one of those chosen. A sophomore from Arlington, Massachusetts, Robinson possesses a huge frame at 6’2’’ and 185 pounds. That frame makes him a set-piece target as evidenced by his two goals and one assist against St. John’s to give the Orange a 3-2 win. Furthermore, Robinson was a member of the United States U-20 squad that took part in the Four Nations Tournament in October.
Brandon Aubrey, Center Back (Notre Dame)
Brandon Aubrey is different than most center backs. Not only did he wear #10 in college, he was second on the team with nine goals this past season. He towers at 6’3’’, so he automatically poses a danger on set pieces. He has also experienced some time in center midfield, so he possesses some skill too.
Tim Kubel, Center Midfielder/Right Back (Louisville)
Part of the German invasion on college soccer, Tim Kubel is another one who provides versatility. Formerly of Borussia Dortmund and Schalke 04, Kubel is capable of playing in midfield or on the back line. His eleven assists in 2016 tied a Louisville school record, impressive considering his position. Being only a junior, Kubel is another Generation Adidas candidate.
Jackson Yueill, Center Midfielder (UCLA)
Another one almost certain to receive a Generation Adidas contract, Jackson Yueill had a terrific season for the Bruins. Hailing from Bloomington, Minnesota, you have to wonder whether Minnesota United will be tempted to pick him first. Yueill is a playmaking center mid and tied a school record with four assists in a game versus Akron. High praise has been bestowed upon him; one MLS general manager compared his game to that of Michael Bradley.
Jeremy Ebobisse, Forward (Charleston Battery)
Jeremy Ebobisse’s case is a bit of an odd one. He signed a pro contract with the MLS in August 2016, forfeiting his college eligibility, despite not being able to sign for any MLS teams. He did stay active in the fall, practicing with D.C. United and playing for the Charleston Battery in the USL. Ebobisse played two seasons at Duke and has been in scintillating form with the United States U-20 team, scoring eight times in nine games.
Abu Danladi, Forward (UCLA)
Despite coming off and injury-plagued season, Danladi is still perceived to be the top pick by many. Danladi still managed to score nine goals, despite playing in only 11 games the whole season. He possesses the physical attributes to make it at the top level with his combination of speed and strength. In addition, Danladi was a recipient of the 2013-14 Gatorade National Boys Soccer Player of the Year award.
Gordon Wild, Forward (Maryland)
Gordon Wild will be highly sought after if he receives a Generation Adidas contract. Born in Germany, Wild has already scored 33 goals in just two years in college. Wild started his college career at USC Upstate, scoring 16 goals as a freshman. Having transferred to Maryland for his sophomore season, he managed to score 17. Furthermore, Wild is one of the three finalists for the MAC Hermann Trophy to be announced January 6. If things go his way, Wild could be getting a sweet start to the new year.
Nick Depuy, Forward (UC Santa Barbara)
Depuy was originally thought to be a Generation Adidas target a year ago but opted to remain in college. While he failed to match last year’s 15 goal tally, that has not hurt his draft stock dramatically. He still managed to score six times and was named the Big West Offensive Player of the Year for the third straight season. An imposing figure at 6’5’’, Depuy is useful in the air and was occasionally moved to center back in games where UCSB had the lead.
