With the conclusion of the Supplemental Draft on Tuesday, the 2011 MLS Draft season is officially over. However, it’s never too soon to start thinking about who might make a splash this fall and be available next year.
MLSsoccer.com offers up the 12 best prospects for the 2012 MLS SuperDraft, followed by their class in 2011 in parenthesis.
Soony Saad (F), Michigan (sophomore)
Prolific goal-scorer and Michigan native was the best freshman last fall, and has honed his game. Could be ready to make the jump after his second college season.
Austin Berry (D), Louisville (senior)
The Big East Defensive Player of the Year was a cornerstone of the Cardinals’ solid defense, and could be a first-round pick next year.
Andrew Wenger (D), Duke (junior)
A versatile central defender, Wenger can play all over the field. Good on the ball, he is a top-5 prospect if he decides to leave after his junior year.
David Bingham (GK), California (senior)
Second-best goalkeeper prospect in the nation behind Zac MacMath, reports suggest that Bingham might sign with MLS this year instead of returning to California. If he stays, he’ll be the best netminder available in next year’s draft.
Casey Townsend (F), Maryland (senior)
A Generation adidas candidate this past draft, Townsend scored nine goals for Maryland last fall as they made it to the NCAA Tournament quarterfinals. Another strong senior season will have him situated to make the jump to MLS.
Kelyn Rowe (MF), UCLA (sophomore)
The attacking midfielder’s stock is on the rise as he fights for a spot on the US U-20 World Cup team.
Sebastian Ibeagha (D), Duke (sophomore)
A product of the Houston Dynamo Academy, Ibeagha has attracted the attention of Thomas Rongen and is looking to represent the US U-20 national team this year.
Tony Cascio (F), Connecticut (senior)
During a solid 10-goal season for Cascio during his junior year, he started hot but cooled off. If he can break the 15-goal mark next year, he’ll push himself into the first round.
Colin Rolfe (F, pictured above), Louisville (senior)
Physical presence up top played a key role in the success of Louisville last year. Works hard from the forward position to pressure the opposition when not in possession of the ball. A Hermann Trophy finalist before committing to another year with the Cardinals.
Darren Mattocks (F), Akron (sophomore)
The Jamaican enjoyed a stellar freshman year, scoring 14 goals. Mattocks turned down an offer to leave school to hone his craft for at least one more year under Caleb Porter.
Brian Ownby (F), Virginia (senior)
Injuries have plagued the last two years of Ownby’s collegiate career, and he has one last chance to stay healthy and boost his draft stock. Played at the U-20 World Cup in 2009.
Dillon Powers (D), Notre Dame (junior)
US youth representative and box-to-box midfielder. Great work rate and a tenacious attitude that can succeed in MLS.
