2022 PLL College Draft Preview: 20 NCAA Lacrosse Players to Watch

Top Defenders / LSMs

Arden Cohen (Notre Dame)

Arden Cohen is the #1 defender in this draft class by a long mile… and it isn’t even close. He has been a model of consistency for the Fighting Irish defense. As the man tasked with locking down the top offensive talent of every opposing team, Cohen has proved relentless. His highlights include stripping Jared Bernhardt with 40 seconds left in a playoff game, and “yard-saling” Chris Gray just two weeks ago. Cohen would be well-suited on any team that needs a pro-ready close defender on day one.

The obvious landing spot is the Redwoods, where he could join his fellow Irish alums Garrett Epple and Eddy Glazener, filling the void left by Matt Landis. If the Redwoods pass on Cohen, it’s hard to imagine the Atlas or Chaos passing on the impact defender.

Likely Landing Spots: Atlas, Chaos, Redwoods

Koby Smith (Towson)

Want to see an athlete? Watch Koby Smith. This kid is a perfect between the lines LSM that is dangerous in transition. He has speed, agility, and PLL-level stick handling (for an LSM).  With Joel White retiring this past year, Chrome could certainly benefit from young, PLL-ready talent like Koby Smith. The problem is… Smith likely won’t be around by the time Chrome pick again.

I would not be surprised to see Koby get scooped up in the first round by a team like the Atlas! Smith already has experience playing for Ben Rubeor, who coached him during his time at Loyola Blakefield. For players looking to attain Koby-level stick skills, check out some of the best lacrosse training aids for your backyard.

Likely Landing Spots: Atlas, Chaos, Chrome

Ryan McNulty (Loyola)

Arguably the best LSM in the draft behind Koby Smith, Ryan McNulty has showcased a style of play perfect for the PLL during his time at Loyola. Through five seasons with the Greyhounds, McNulty has recorded 28 points and 83 caused turnovers. He is a great on-ball defender that can get up the field and force transition with ease.

Cannons, Chrome and Waterdogs all have a need for another LSM on their roster, which makes it highly likely that McNulty will go to one of those teams in the second round.

Likely Landing Spots: Cannons, Chrome, Waterdogs

Gibson Smith (Georgetown)

Gibson Smith has been a huge part of a Georgetown defense that ranks first in goals allowed per game allowed and defensive efficiency this season. Smith has experience drawing the top matchups and should be up for the challenge if asked to be a team’s first or second cover guy.

If Arden Cohen and Koby Smith are off the board by the time Andy Towers picks, there is a high chance he takes Gibson Smith with one of his first round picks. While Chaos are the likeliest landing spot, the Cannons and Whipsnakes could also be looking to add another close defender to the mix when they make their first selections in the draft.

Likely Landing Spots: Cannons, Chaos, Whipsnakes

Brett Kennedy (Syracuse)

Brett Kennedy is one of the more versatile poles in the draft, with experience playing close defense and LSM during his time at Syracuse. While he’s projected to be an LSM at the next level, Kennedy carved out a name for himself at close defenseman during the 2020 season after he was called to fill in for Nick Mellen. He did just that, earning Third Team All-American honors. Battle-tested in the ACC, Kennedy might not be the flashiest or biggest name available, but he brings resiliency and versatility that could make him a valuable asset. He also has the ability to push in transition, which makes him a great fit for the PLL.

Kennedy would be a good fit on Atlas or Chaos, since they could play him at close or LSM depending on matchup. Cannons and Waterdogs are two other teams that may be looking to acquire Kennedy and deploying him solely as an LSM.

Likely Landing Spots: Atlas, Cannons, Chaos, Waterdogs

Other Notable Defensemen: Brad Apgar, Colin Hinton, George Baughan