Sleeper of the Day: TE/LB Andrew Wilson

ANDREW WILSON, Tight end/linebacker, West Stanly High

As a sophomore, Wilson was an offensive and defensive tackle, big enough for the position in high school but nothing outstanding. Last year, though, he morphed into a linebacker/tight end.

Defensively, he had 48 solo tackles and 19 assists, plus five fumble recoveries and an interception. Offensively, he caught 16 passes for 422 yards and three touchdowns. And although his numbers weren’t overwhelming, those who watched his games could see the promise of things to come.

Now it’s time. Wilson has grown to 6-foot-3 and 239 pounds, and can run a 4.9-second 40-yard dash. He’s also athletic, winning all-conference honors as a power forward in basketball. And he's strong academically (a 4.6 grade-point average) and can meet the standards of any school.

“He’s real athletic, but he’s also hard-nosed,” said West Stanly coach Mark Little. “All of a sudden, a lot of people are starting to look at him. Schools like Virginia Tech, N.C. State, North Carolina and Elon have come by recently, plus a bunch more.

“I think he’s definitely a Division I player.”

Our Sleeper of the Day item targets under-noticed Carolinas football recruiting prospects. As always, if you have a candidate, email me at solson@charlotteobserver.com. –Stan Olson