BIOGRAPHY

Levi Nelson is a 6’3, 205-pound EDGE from Ponte Vedra High School in Ponte Vedra, Florida, and a member of the class of 2029. A freshman with a laser-verified 1.44-second 10-yard split, Nelson blends length, leverage, and an elite first step with a relentless motor that allows him to impact games both as a traditional 5-tech and as an edge rusher in space.

Raised in Florida’s highly competitive football environment, Nelson comes from a driven and accomplished family. His older brother is a state-qualified Olympic weightlifter at UCF, and his sister is a PVHS varsity cheerleader on a state-championship squad that finished 11th at UCA Nationals. His mother is a former Miss Centerburg, Ohio, who earned the Junior Miss fitness award, and his father was the starting goalkeeper at Division I Wright State University and holds a master’s degree. Nelson is active in his church, involved in community service, and maintains a 4.0 GPA with a long-term commitment to earning a college degree.

Despite being only 14 years old, Nelson emerged as an impact defender in limited action. In just 6.25 games, he produced 7.5 sacks, 4 tackles for loss, 36 tackles, 2 fumble recoveries, and helped create 2 interceptions through pressure—showcasing advanced pass-rush instincts for his age. His early performance earned him invitations to FBU Top Gun and the FBU Futures Showcase for 2025, where defensive line coaches used him as a teaching example during drills and placed him on a watch list after repeated 1-on-1 wins. Nelson also practiced with Ponte Vedra’s varsity team during its postseason run to the 2025 Florida 5A State Semifinals against Lakeland.

Nelson’s game begins with an explosive get-off that quickly converts to speed-to-power. His long-arm and forklift finish create consistent strain on opposing tackles, and he shows a clean inside counter that continues to develop with coaching. His pad level, strike timing, and technical consistency sharpen each week, and he is known for a high motor—hustling back to the line, finishing through contact, and setting the tone with effort.

URA EVALUATION

Levi Nelson is an emerging 2029 EDGE prospect with a prototype frame and early verified athleticism. At 6’3, 205 pounds with a 1.44 laser 10-yard split, he shows an explosive first step and natural ability to stress offensive tackles. Wins early with length, leverage, and motor, and already flashes a promising speed-to-power profile for his age.

Nelson’s long-arm and forklift finish are advanced tools for a freshman, and he shows a clean inside counter with improved pad level and timing. His effort stands out—he consistently retraces plays, finishes through contact, and plays with high energy. 

Year-round work with Coach Brandon Floyd (strength/movement) and Coach Ronnie Mason (DL technique) is accelerating his development. Academically, he holds a 4.0 GPA, is active in service, and aims to reach 215–220 pounds while earning significant varsity reps as a sophomore.

Projection: High-upside EDGE with traits and growth potential that fits a future Division 1 profile. He is a young defender college programs should start to take notice of due to his  especially those program who are looking for an athlete who is from good athletic and academic pedigree.  monitor closely as he adds strength and expands his pass-rush toolbox.