Cowan is raw but promising and athletic.
VanDarius Cowan is one of the fast-rising recruits in the class of 2017. Out of Palm Beach Gadrens (Fla.) High School, the 6'4, 220-pound Cowan profiles as an edge rusher at the college level. And colleges are taking notice, as he now has offers from Florida, Florida State, Louisville and Ohio State, with Georgia and Alabama also interested.
And Cowan recently told Scout.com that the Seminoles lead.
"Florida State was that offer I have always wanted," said Cowan. "As soon as I found out about it I called Coach [Bill] Miller to talk with him about it. I was all smiles that day and I plan to talk with Coach [Jimbo] Fisher soon."...
"I grew up in Chicago but Florida State has always been a favorite of mine. I have watched them on T.V. a lot and that offer got my blood pumping.
"I have not visited there yet, but I will be there this summer. I like how they play, they always have great players, and it is a school I think about a lot."
Looking at Cowan's hudl film, it's clear what the schools like: he appears to have a nice collection of skills for an edge rusher.
Cowan's height of 6'4 has been verified at the Nike Miami Combine, which suggests he has the necessary length to play on the edge. He seems to be somewhat new to defensive end, and some work on his stance could result in a better get-off. Cowan also shows good hustle and closing speed chasing plays away from him on the backside. Despite a complete lack of pass rush moves, Cowan makes a lot of plays because of his energy, effort and speed.
Tomahawk Nation will have a chance to see Cowan in person at one of the Florida State football camps in June or July. The Seminoles currently have three players committed in the class of 2017.