Stanford Football: 3 commits who’ll have an instant impact in 2018

Outside of star defensive tackle Harrison Phillips, the Cardinal struggled to muster any sort of pass rush in 2017. Kalambayi’s departure also hurts the outlook for that portion of the defense this year. However, Stanford did recruit well along the defensive line for the 2018 class.

Of all the recruits in Stanford’s 2018 class, the one most likely to make an immediate impact is four-star strong-side defensive end Thomas Booker. At 6-foot-5 and nearly 300 pounds, Booker is among the largest incoming freshmen for the Cardinal.

The versatility that Booker brings is his most valuable asset. His size allows him to fit into a few different spots along the defensive line. Since Stanford runs a 4-3 scheme on defense, Booker could get some looks in the middle as the defensive tackle.

Phillips carried a similar physical size to that of Booker. During his senior year with the Stanford defense, Phillips topped out five pounds shy of 300, and is actually an inch shorter than Booker.

Next: Early game-by-game predictions for Stanford football in 2018

The raw physical tools, and the overall talent are there for Booker to have an impact all four years in Palo Alto. He was named the 11th best prospect at his position in the nation for a reason. Booker turned down offers from the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Clemson Tigers, Georgia Bulldogs, Ohio State Buckeyes, etc. to be a member of the Stanford defense. That means something.