Wyatt VanBoening: Rising Star in High School Football

Carmel offensive tackle Wyatt VanBoening stands out not only for his towering 6-foot-7, 285-pound frame but also for his skills and potential. The junior has quickly become a top prospect nationwide, catching the attention of recruiters for reasons beyond his size.

VanBoening shared insights into what recruiters value: “Size matters, but movement, quick learning, and information processing are crucial. Master these, and the game slows down, allowing higher-level play.”

Despite having just one varsity season—starting at right tackle as a sophomore—VanBoening’s potential for college football is evident. By June 15, the official date for recruiters to contact players directly, he had received 20 scholarship offers. Institutions like Illinois and Notre Dame are among those expressing interest.

VanBoening noted an increase in communication from colleges: “Once the calls and messages started, I knew which schools were truly interested.”

His current focus is adapting to a switch from right tackle to left tackle, a position he last played as a freshman. “It’s crazy realizing I’m halfway through high school football. My approach is to concentrate on the game and let other aspects fall in place while blocking opponents effectively.”

Determined to improve, VanBoening increased his squat from 385 to 505 pounds within a year. “Achieving that level of strength surprised me. Last year, I relied on aggression and technique. Now, strength offers me more room to rectify mistakes.”

Impressed with his work ethic, Carmel coach Jason McKie praised VanBoening: “His size and physicality are notable, but his intent in practice sets him apart. He aims to excel.”

VanBoening aspires to surpass his brothers, who also played as offensive linemen. Trenton, now playing at Lindenwood, and Rhett, at Army, both graduated from Libertyville. Their father, Simon, was a linebacker for Nebraska and Kansas State.

“I’m naturally competitive. I want to surpass them,” VanBoening commented. “They have years on me, but their guidance has been invaluable in recruiting and understanding the game.”

Trenton believes in Wyatt’s vast potential: “Being the youngest forces him to mature quickly. He’s doing things beyond what Rhett and I managed at this stage.” Wyatt’s imposing size was noticeable: “Seeing him taller than me is surreal, but he’s his own person and very goal-oriented. I’m proud of him.”

Wyatt values his brothers’ influence, which eased his transition to varsity football. “They emphasized getting off the line quickly. Their advice helped me hold my own last season. Natural talent alone won’t take me where I want to go.”