Two of the top three consensus draft picks amongst experts come from the backline, and both feature prominently within the Impact’s scouting report.
Despite the skill in the defensive end of the field with Walker Zimmerman of Furman and Andrew Farrell of Louisville, Jordan feels the team may not necessarily look at a defender based on the club’s needs.
“One of our challenges will be, do we go with the best player available, or do we focus on our positional needs,” said Jordan. “I think most teams face the same challenge at the draft, especially in a year that doesn’t have as much depth as in previous editions.”
Defenders
Walker Zimmerman – Furman
Jordan: “He has a very good presence for a centre back; he is very committed in his play and has the potential to develop into a consistent pro. His one-v-one defending is solid and he is very good in the air. He is a generation adidas signing.”
Andrew Farrell – Louisville
Jordan: “Farrell is extremely athletic. He’s a converted midfielder to centre back and has incredibly good physical attributes and has been a consistent performer at Louisville. He is comfortable on the ball but will have to look to simplify his game at the next level. He is a generation adidas signing.”
Dylan Tucker-Gangnes – University of Washington
Jordan: “He is good on the ball and reads the game well. He is a very good passer out of the back, distributing the ball, and is very dangerous on set pieces.”
Goalkeepers
James Belshaw - Duke
Jordan: “He is a British kid who is a very good leader and a great shot stopper. He is a solid communicator in the run of play and anticipates crosses very well. He is a solid keeper and has shown well.”
Brad Stuver – Cleveland State
Jordan: “He comes from a smaller school but has shown to be a consistent performer over the last few college seasons. He has a good frame for a goalkeeper, is a solid shot stopper and is good with his feet.”
