Defensive players just outside 2018 Rivals250

The initial Rivals250 for the Class of 2018 was released earlier this week, with several new names bursting onto the national scene. But on average, there are more than 300 four-stars nationwide before things are all said and done on National Signing Day. So which players are likely to make the leap up to four-star status in the future? We break down the players on the offensive side of the ball that are on the cusp of earning the coveted fourth star.

RELATED: Offensive players outside Rivals250 | Class of 2018 Rivals250

“Cox has been a summer camp warrior, turning heads and earning offers at Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia and several others. At 6-foot-4 and 225 pounds, he fits the ideal role of a hybrid pass-rushing end. He could be one of the best at his position in the nation before it’s all said and done.” -- Southeast analyst Woody Wommack

“When Perkins showed up to the Rivals Camp Series in Kansas City in May, he impressed us with his athleticism for a player his size. That skill set, combined with his 6-foot-4, 245-pound frame could end up projecting at either strongside end or defensive tackle in college. Perkins is closing in on double digit offers, but if proximity to home continues to be a priority, look for Missouri and Illinois to be top contenders.” -- Midwest analyst Josh Helmholdt

“Brown is a big-bodied defensive tackle who impresses with his ability to get off the ball quickly. His job at the college level will be likely to take up space and stuff the run, but he’s also shown an ability to be an effective pass rusher. South Carolina has the early lead in his recruitment.” -- Wommack

“The 6-foot-2, 210-pound Sanborn is an impressive combination of size, athleticism and instincts. He gets a lot out of his frame and shows range in coverage, while also knowing how to finish tackles. His first offers came through from Iowa and Iowa State, with Illinois, Northwestern and others showing strong, early interest.” -- Helmholdt

“Oats is a long and athletic linebacker who could end up growing into a defensive end before this recruiting process is all said and done. The Cincinnati native is raw at this stage of his development, but his skill set allows for a high ceiling. Nebraska, Oklahoma, Ohio State and Michigan State are some of his big, early offers.” -- Helmholdt

“Gordon is a tremendous two-way player who is utilized all over the field on offense and is a shut-down cornerback. On defense, the 5-foot-10, 175-pound prospect breaks well on the ball, has excellent hands to pick off passes and packs a surprise wallop when making tackles. Offensively, he can be used out of the backfield or as a receiver, he has break cutback ability and is a threat every time he has the ball in his hands. Oregon and Washington are his two early offers.” -- West analyst Adam Gorney

“There is a lot to like about Thompson. He has great length, runs well from sideline-to-sideline, and reacts quickly. South Carolina, Virginia Tech, Duke, and N.C. State have offered Thompson.” -- Mid-Atlantic analyst Adam Friedman

“Taylor is a versatile athlete who plays quarterback for his high school program, but has also worked out at cornerback and wide receiver during the offseason. While it’s clear he’s talented, he will be better served committing to a position and working on developing there as his career moves along. Taylor is committed to Tennessee.”