Whether one realizes it or not, the high school football season is on the horizon in Florida.
Preseason games start this week, as the heart of August has arrived. In the blink of an eye, the start of the 2026 regular season will be here. Ahead of that, though, I wanted to do my best to set the table for what is to come.
I had a chance to cover plenty of teams this spring/summer in Florida, and there are plenty of players who deserve to be highlighted ahead of the season starting. And as a bonus, I have some Florida-based notes from May’s Elite 11 Finals, which I had the chance to cover in Los Angeles.
There is plenty to dive into, so without further ado, let us get started!
Florida High School Players to Watch
West Boca
- Loia Valade, ATH: A new arrival to the Bulls, Valade was one of the more impressive players I watched this spring. On defense, the Canadian product had impressive footwork and overall athletic ability. He recognized plays at a high level, flew downhill to make tackles with ease, and had the speed to make any plays in coverage. Valade, while not taking many snaps on offense this spring, flashed his high-level ability on that side of the ball as well, especially as a vertical threat. Joining an already loaded roster, the Texas A&M commit could be one of the best players on his team and in the area this season. I am very intrigued to see what he does this season.
- Terriel “Wally” Harmon, RB: If one were to describe the game of Terriel “Wally” Harmon, dynamic is a word that would be at the top of the list. Transferring into West Boca for the 2026 season, Harmon has the all-around skill set to impact the game in multiple ways. As a runner, Harmon displays nice vision and an understanding of how different run schemes work. He has nice strength through contact, the quickness to make players miss in the open field, and the speed to outrun them. As a pass catcher, Harmon is very impressive; the running back consistently displays great hands, route-running, and speed. No matter what he will be asked to do in 2026, I am confident Harmon will do it at a high level. He’s a player I expect to break out this season.
- Billy Clancy III, WR: An underrated player in the area, Billy Clancy III is a key piece of West Boca’s offense once again in 2026. His best skill is his deep speed, which he combines with his route running to get open on a constant basis. Clancy III also flashed some YAC ability during the FAU 7-on-7 that West Boca was victorious in. If he is fully healthy, I expect a fun season from the WR once again.
- Jamar Thompson, DL: An imposing presence on the defensive line, Jamar Thompson is one of the few players with the skill to be a true “game-wrecker.” Thompson thrives as a run defender while also having the skill set to get into the backfield quickly on passing downs. Alongside plenty of high-level players in the trenches, Thompson will likely not face as many double teams as he did last year. 2026 could be a very big year for the Georgia Tech commit, if not the best of his high school career.
- Larry Morgan, CB: West Boca’s secondary is filled to the brim with talent, and Larry Morgan III is one of the team’s standouts. The USF commit has the ability to be a ballhawk (3 PBUs and 1 INT in 2025) while also being a consistent and reliable tackler in space. This spring, Morgan showed further development with his press coverage and overall instincts as a player. He is poised to take another leap in the 2026 season.
- Carlton Jackson III, DB: A class of 2028 standout for the Bulls, Jackson III has the ceiling to be one of the best overall players on the team. Holding 28 offers already, the defensive back is highly impressive in multiple kinds of coverages. Jackson III has great instincts in zone, and when asked to play man coverage, he stays stuck to the wideout’s hip, allowing him to make plays on the ball consistently. Against the run, Jackson III is just as impressive; when he recognizes the play, he flies downhill and uses his strength to make plays in space. As he develops further, Jackson III has the chance to not only be one of the best defenders in the area, but in all of Florida.
Sleepers: Javion Herrington, EDGE, Emerson Walker, TE, and Ariel Lariviere, CB
- Herrington is a player who, despite plenty of P4 and FBS interest, is flying under the radar. I love his play style, as he attacks downhill in the run game while also showing the burst to win to the outside as a pass rusher. Lariviere, a class of 2027 defensive back, flashed some impressive talent this spring in coverage. If he gets a chance to play this season, I think he can impress and be yet another fun piece in the Bulls’ secondary. Walker, a class of 2029 tight end, has the upside to be one of the best in his class. I am fascinated to see how he develops this season, and if he gets the touches, he could immediately cement himself as one of West Boca’s best offensive players.
Jupiter
- Nick Bothe, ATH: Bothe is a player who needs way more buzz heading into the 2026 season. Just like he did in the 2025 season, Bothe was a savant for Jupiter in the Spanish River Jamboree. He made huge tackles, flying around the field and putting his offense in advantageous situations. On offense, Bothe took snaps at running back, wideout, and as a wildcat quarterback. He showed nice hands and route running, great strength as a ball carrier, and even had a great throw that should have been a big play. Whatever he is asked to do, Bothe will do it at a high level. Expect another great season from him in 2026.
- Brendan Hollinger, WR: Outside of Bothe, Brendan Hollinger is the player I am most excited to watch on Jupiter’s offense this season. In their spring games, Hollinger was lethal after the catch, especially on designed screens. He read his blocks well and immediately got upfield, churning out yardage and moving the chains with strength. Hollinger also displayed some solid vertical ability, demonstrated when he beat a defensive back’s press coverage for a huge gain. Add in his physicality on defense, and Hollinger has two-way ability for Jupiter. He is a player who could have his breakout season in 2026.
- Jordan Dale, CB: Mainly playing defense for Jupiter, Dale has some impressive coverage ability in the secondary. In his spring game, the defensive back had two interceptions and four pass breakups, along with a few tackles. Dale showed upper-level movement skills, great hand placement, and impressive hands for a defensive back. He understood what wideouts were trying to do against him, regardless of what coverage he was in. In this regard, I was impressed by how Dale attacked the ball; the defensive back did not make mistakes in an attempt to play the ball, but rather made sure he was in a good position before doing so. You should keep an eye on this player heading into the regular season.
Sleeper: Jimmy Moses, QB
- Transferring to Jupiter for the 2026 season, Jimmy Moses is a 2028 quarterback who could break out this season. He has a cannon of an arm, the touch to layer throws over defenders, and the accuracy to beat defenders to the spot on a consistent basis. Moses also has the athleticism to not only extend plays but also add to the offense as a runner. I am very interested to see how he fits within Jupiter’s offense, but if everything clicks for him, Moses will help the team’s overall unit be very impressive in 2026.
Santaluces
- Jayvon Dawson, EDGE: If you were sleeping on Jayvon Dawson’s overall talent, you better be awake now. A University of Miami commit, Dawson makes an impact in a wide variety of ways for Santaluces. As a pass rusher, Dawson has the speed and strength to dominate offensive linemen. He makes constant plays in the backfield against the run, stopping players in their tracks consistently. In coverage, Dawson shows great instincts and ability; over the spring, he had an impressive rep where he ran with Kentucky commit and teammate Kelsey Gerald down the field for a pass breakup. Oh, and he also can dominate as a pass catcher, especially in the red zone and contested catch situations. With a big 2026 season, Dawson will cement himself as one of the best players in the country, and I personally expect that to happen.
- Kelsey Gerald, RB: Like Dawson, Gerald was one of my favorite players I watched this spring. As a runner, the Kentucky commit has an upper-level combination of power and speed. He reads blocks very well, and once he sees an open lane, accelerates at a high rate to create big plays. In the passing game, Gerald has a nice route-running arsenal and finishes catches by showing off his soft hands. Coming off of a very impressive 2025 season, I expect Gerald to keep producing at a high level and end his high school career on a high note.
Sleeper: Jarmell Sine, WR
- Sine, another 2028 wideout for Santaluces, is an underrated breakout candidate for this season. Possessing nice speed and great movement skills, Sine can unlock multiple areas of the field for the Santaluces offense. Alongside Sineace and other weapons, Sine will help the Chiefs’ offense be very dynamic once again.
Dr. Joaquin Garcia
- Zion Vilma, ATH: Whether it is offense or defense, Zion Vilma makes a big impact on games. As a wideout, Vilma has the speed, yards-after-catch ability, route-running, and hands to make great things happen on a consistent basis. On defense, Vilma is a ballhawk who can put his team in a great position by forcing turnovers and errant passes. Vilma has plenty of high-level college interest for a reason, and the current Rutgers commit is in a position to have another great season in 2026.
- Sherwins Raymond, ATH: While Vilma gets all of the headlines, and for good reason, Sherwins Raymond is an underrated player who I think could have a top-level season in 2026. In 2025, the two-way player for Garcia did a little bit of everything, racking up 236 all-purpose yards, three interceptions, and nine pass breakups. On offense, Raymond has the speed and athleticism to rip off big plays in a variety of ways. Whether as a wideout, running back, or a gadget player on designed touches, the ATH prospect is a fun chess piece for Garcia’s offense. On defense, Raymond combines his athletic ability with impressive technique in coverage. He understands leverage and route concepts, and when the ball is in the air, Raymond makes plays consistently. Looking more comfortable in every aspect of his game this spring, Raymond would be on my shortlist of breakout candidates.
- JereMiah Celian, ATH: Another two-way player for Garcia, JereMiah Celian should be a very nice contributor in 2026. Celian thrives on defense for the Bulldogs, using his speed to make tackles consistently against the run and his instincts to make plays in coverage. On offense, Celain lines up at running back for the Bulldogs, and his skill set from defense translates nicely. Just as he does at linebacker, Celian reads the play and attacks downhill, bringing contact to his opponents. The ATH then combines his strength with his speed, finding space and ripping off big gains. Like Sherwins Raymond, Celian is a player who is not getting enough attention, and he should be able to earn some more buzz this season.
Sleeper: Andreas Lajko, QB
- A transfer from St. Thomas Aquinas, Lajko has the size and upside to be an instant contributor for the Bulldogs at quarterback. He will be surrounded by plenty of talent this season, whether in the trenches or at the skill positions. I am intrigued to see how Lajko acclimates to the position and the offensive scheme, but if it all clicks, the lefty will be able to pick up where former Garcia standout Caleb Butler left off.
Spanish River
- Jayden Elder, WR: One of my favorite wideouts in the 2027 class, Jayden Elder is set to have another top-tier season for Spanish River. Over the spring, the wideout showed his overall skill set in practices and in games. Elder has the ability to make good things happen after the catch and to consistently win as a route runner. This showed up during his spring game, as Elder won over the middle of the field and created yardage on designed touches. Elder’s best skill, though, is his deep speed. Once he wins vertically, Elder taps into a second gear, allowing him to beat defenders and create big plays. This skill set essentially won Spanish River one of their spring games, as Elder beat the defense for what was the game-winning touchdown. 2026 will be another fun year for Elder, especially if he builds on what he did this spring.
- Zachary Stelus, DL: A class of 2028 prospect, Stelus is set to be a major factor in the trenches for Spanish River this season. Possessing the strength to dominate run game reps, Stelus also possesses the burst and quickness to make an impact as a pass rusher. He can use his hands to get free or his burst to turn the corner on stunts. How Stelus continues to build consistency as a player will be fun to watch, and if he takes the step I think he is capable of, I think that he will cement himself as one of the better players in his class in the area.
Sleeper: Derek Goulbourne, WR
- Goulbourne, the main complement to Elder at wideout, is a very impressive all-around player. He is great after the catch, has the smoothness to win at multiple levels of the field as a route runner, and has very solid hands. A sleeper heading into this season, I do not expect that to be the case after the 2026 season.
American Heritage (Plantation)
- Neimann Lawrence, QB: When it comes to Neimann Lawrence, calling him anything besides one of the best quarterbacks in Florida, and the country, would be a disservice. The Texas commit can hit any throw on the field and has the accuracy to do it on a consistent basis. In game action, Lawrence understands how and where to attack defenses, which allows him to consistently keep his offense moving. And while he does not always need to show it, he has the athleticism to extend plays and make plays on the move. American Heritage has a great one, and he should help the Patriots do great things in 2026.
- Nico Ramos, OL: A Syracuse commit, Ramos is set to provide major protection for Lawrence at one of the tackle spots this season. Possessing a large frame already, the offensive tackle is very light on his feet and does a great job mirroring defenders in pass protection. As a run blocker, Ramos has good hand usage and drives players into the ground or out of the play consistently. He is a major piece for the Patriots’ offense in 2026.
- Tank Proctor, TE: A transfer to American Heritage for 2026, Proctor is poised for a major performance in his senior season. Notching 604 yards and 11 TDs in 2025, Proctor has the speed and overall talent as a receiver to make a big impact on the game. He wins vertically consistently, and in the event of a contested-catch situation, Proctor has the strength and catch radius to come down with it. He should be a very fun piece alongside Neimann Lawrence this season.
- Amare Nugent, CB: A top-200 overall recruit in the 2027 class, Nugent is poised for another big year for American Heritage in 2026. Playing with physicality and speed, the Florida commit thrives in run defense and in coverage. He has experience playing press-man, where he uses his recovery speed and athleticism to make plays. In zone, the cornerback shows off his football knowledge, diagnosing plays quickly before flying in to make a play. While not a trench player, Nugent should still be a defensive anchor for the Patriots.
Sleepers: Kaden Langford, EDGE, Michael Stringer, WR, and Jalen Rolle, CB
- Kaden Langford is the son of 10-year NFL veteran Kendall Langford, so it is no surprise that the 2028 prospect is already generating some buzz. With an above-average frame already, the development could be pretty rapid for Langford as he starts to get more reps. If he puts it all together, he could have a monster 2026 season. The same goes for Jalen Rolle, a 2028 defensive back who already has offers from FSU, Kentucky, and seven other schools. Rolle has the size and speed to make a major impact on games this season, and I think he will do just that in 2026. Michael Stringer, a Western Kentucky commit, was one of Neimann Lawrence’s favorite targets this spring. With a great catch radius and above-average route running, I think Stringer could put on a show this season. All three of these players, to varying extents, need more buzz around them.
American Heritage (Delray)
- Marcus Stracke, QB: Having a chance to watch Stracke this spring, especially in game action, was very fun. The 2028 quarterback is very decisive in how he attacks defenses, and when he makes throws, his arm strength is upper-level. Stracke’s accuracy over the middle of the field is very impressive, regardless of whether it is an RPO-style play or a true dropback. If pressured, Stracke has enough speed to gain yards on the ground and enough quick-twitch movement to create plays outside of the pocket. With another great season, Stracke should be able to put himself on the radar in a big way.
- Jonah Katsen, ATH: No matter what side of the ball he is on, Jonah Katsen can make plays. At wideout, Katsen can win vertically, win as a route runner, and make tough catches through contact. On designed touches, he has the ability to make players miss and the strength to power through them. On defense, Katsen has the range and speed to make plays from sideline to sideline. He is a sure-handed tackler and uses some nice instincts to make plays on the ball in the air. Especially on offense, where he will be alongside a talented QB in Stracke, I am very excited for what Katsen can do in 2026.
- Mitchell Joseph, RB: A rare class of 2029 player in this article, Joseph showed this spring that he is more than deserving of the attention. The running back is an extremely smooth mover and has good vision. Once he sees an opening, the running back glides through the hole and, if necessary, makes a quick cut to open daylight. He is not an extremely fast player, but he utilizes his burst and strength to churn out good yardage. Joseph should be a vital piece of the American Heritage Delray offense in 2026.
Sleeper: Shane Kleeblatt, ATH
- Like Katsen, Kleeblatt is a player who makes good contributions on both sides of the ball. He was highly impressive on offense in the Stallions’ spring game, making multiple contested grabs after running nice routes. Kleeblatt also contributed some tackles on defense. Like Katsen, he is an underrated player who could bump up his stock in 2026.
Benjamin
- Jayden Cosby-Mosley, DB: Stop sleeping on Jayden Cosby-Mosley, as he is truly one of the best players in the entire Palm Beach area. Whether it was his spring game or the FAU 7-on-7, the versatile defender constantly and consistently made great plays on defense. He had a pick-six and multiple PBUs in his spring game, while also showing some impressive speed off the edge. In 7-on-7 work, Cosby-Mosley was flying across the field to make pass breakups and provided lockdown coverage. He is a true game changer for the Benjamin School, and the kid deserves way more buzz than he is currently getting. After what I think will be a dominant 2026 season from him, no one will be able to deny Cosby-Mosley any longer.
- Zaydin Fleuridor, ATH: Yes, a class of 2030 (good lord) prospect has made this list. But Zaydin Fleuridor deserves the attention ahead of the start of a season where he could become the next star at The Benjamin School. The FAU 7-on-7 was the first time I had a chance to watch the two-way standout in action, and he did not disappoint. On defense, Fleuridor not only provided lockdown coverage but also had highly impressive closing speed. He closed multiple passing windows that looked to be open, something that a player his age is not normally doing. On offense, Fleuridor lined up at wideout, and he displayed great route running and speed. More impressively, he had great contested catch ability, which was best displayed on a leaping, one-handed grab over the middle of the field. If you are looking for a rising star or a true, under-the-radar breakout candidate, Fleuridor is your guy.
- Mason Bennett, ATH: While he is able to contribute on both sides of the ball, Mason Bennett’s best position is at linebacker. Able to diagnose plays in the middle of the field quickly, Bennett has the speed and strength to make tackles against the run on a consistent basis. As a pass rusher, the linebacker darts through gaps and finishes plays quickly. Already taking plenty of reps in his freshman year, it would not be a surprise to see Bennett take a leap in 2026, and I am excited to see where he grows as a player.
Sleeper: Cohen Roach, QB
- If he is the starter for Benjamin this season, Cohen Roach is a sleeper at quarterback who could break out. Possessing arm talent that can utilize strength and touch, he is the perfect type of player who can take advantage of an underrated group of offensive weapons. It all depends on how he plays once the real games arrive, but if he can translate his 7-on-7 success to the field, Roach should be in store for a good 2026 season.
Palm Beach Central
- Logan Lindsey-Hartwig, WR: A class of 2028 wideout, Logan Lindsey-Hartwig’s performance this spring is setting him up for a major 2026 season. The wideout is a great route-runner, creating separation with ease on a consistent basis. He combines his route-running prowess with great speed and strong hands, allowing him to make plays in a variety of scenarios. Lindsey-Hartwig is especially deadly in the red zone, unleashing great footwork and overall athletic ability to make things much easier on his quarterback. A key target for a potential breakout at quarterback, Lindsey-Hartwig is in a position to stake a claim as one of the better 2028 wideouts in the area.
- Tyler Alexander, DL: A Texas commit, Tyler Alexander is a force in every regard when it comes to playing defensive line. Against the run, Alexander slams gaps shut and makes plays on a consistent basis. He is very impressive when it comes to using his hands, controlling blockers at the point of attack before tossing them to the side. While not perfect as a pass rusher, Alexander has a great foundation, as he uses his quickness to rip past offensive linemen. He understands how to attack his opponents as a pass rusher, and over the spring, Alexander was workshopping different moves. If he dips further into his pass-rushing bag in 2026, Alexander could take another leap ahead of arriving in Austin.
- Zaquan Linton, OL: A bookend tackle for Palm Beach Central, Linton is a central (pun intended) piece of the Broncos’ 2026 offense. In the run game, Linton moves bodies and detonates players in space. As a pass protector, Linton firmly fits into the “dancing bear” archetype of a high-level tackle. He possesses great footwork and uses his athleticism to stay in front of players consistently. Once he gets his hands on a player, he either washes them out of the play or stops them in their tracks. And when facing future-P4 talent in practice, Linton understood how to counter pass rushing moves and keep the upper hand. The Colorado commit has a high floor and a high ceiling, and I am excited to see him play in 2026.
- Isaias Matias, DE: If Logan Lindsey-Hartwig is a breakout candidate on offense, then Isaias Matias is a firm breakout candidate on defense. A towering presence on the Broncos’ defense, Matias already knows how to win with speed and power. His hand usage is upper-level, using it to throw blockers aside in the run game and as a pass rusher. And when he gets free, Matias has a closing speed to chase down quarterbacks that is not matched by many players. Matias is also a sure-handed tackler; whether on the LOS or in space, he makes plays on a consistent basis. Top-tier schools, such as Miami, are already taking notice of the player Matias is starting to grow into. After his 2026 season, I would imagine plenty of other programs will be fighting to land the Palm Beach Central standout.
- Joe Sykes, LB: An offseason transfer, Joe Sykes immediately becomes a centerpiece for the Palm Beach Central defense. At West Boca this spring, Sykes showed high-level play recognition and athleticism on a consistent basis. He attacked downhill against the run, made plays in coverage, and helped lead the defensive unit whenever he was on the field. At his new school, I expect Sykes to do all of that, and more. The linebacker is in a great position heading into 2026, and I am very intrigued to see what he is able to do.
Sleepers: Isaiah Hamilton, QB, Jayden Mahorn, WR, and Kai Sainmervil, DB.
- Hamilton, while not a widely known name just yet, should see that change after this season. The 2029 quarterback has the arm talent and overall athleticism to impact football games in a wide variety of ways. He was electric when I watched him during a spring practice, and in his spring game, he dominated his opponent to the tune of 350 all-purpose yards and five touchdowns. Mahorn, a fellow 2029 prospect, has the deep speed to beat defenders over the top and the quickness after the catch to be reliable on designed touches. Like Hamilton, I expect him to be a more widely known prospect after this season. Sainmervil, a key chess piece on the Spanish River defense, has the talent to line up at multiple different positions and find success for the Broncos this year. In Spanish River’s spring game, the versatile defender had five tackles, two tackles-for-loss, a sack, and a pass breakup. I expect him to have plenty of success for the Broncos in 2026.
Palm Beach Lakes
- Turmarian Moreland Jr., DB: A recent Virginia Tech commit, Moreland Jr. is a game changer on the defensive end for Palm Beach Lakes. He possesses the instincts to sniff plays out immediately, which he follows up by closing downhill to make big tackles or break up passes. Moreland Jr. can blow up plays in the hole, range from sideline to sideline, or even cover players deep down the field. Oh, and when he is asked to play defense, Moreland Jr. rips off big plays and can be a great complement to Ryan Ferdinand. He is a player whom I am very excited to watch in 2026.
- Ryan Ferdinand, WR: Ryan Ferdinand, a recent Colorado commit, is one of the more fun Florida wideout prospects in the 2027 class. In the Palm Beach Lakes offense, Ferdinand thrives in a variety of ways. As a route runner, the wideout creates constant separation in the short and intermediate areas of the field. His hands are top-notch, especially when he gets into the red zone and jump-ball situations. And when the deep ball goes up, Ferdinand constantly makes good things happen; his vertical speed is arguably his best skill, as he moves fluidly to get under throws and create game-changing plays. It would be a surprise if Ferdinand did not thrive in 2026, and I think that he will prove that he is one of the best players in the area once again.
- Raphael Acker, DL: A fast-rising 2028 prospect, Acker has the talent to be a game-wrecker on the interior of the defensive line for Palm Beach Lakes. Against the run, Acker can shoot gaps, rip past blockers, or go straight through their chest. As a pass rusher, Acker is extremely explosive off the ball and can cause quarterbacks to get off the platform or become under duress very quickly. His stock is pointing up in a major way, and 2026 could result in a major breakout for him.
Sleeper: Kawan Ingraham, WR:
- An underrated player for Palm Beach Lakes, I loved how Ingraham ran his routes and attacked the ball at the catch point in his spring game. His route running and speed were fully on display, too. Alongside Ferdinand and Moreland Jr., Ingraham is a very fun weapon for the Lakes’ offense in 2026.
Saint Andrew’s
- Wesley Winn, ATH: He is not the biggest player, but when it comes to Wesley Winn, that does not outweigh the massive two-way talent that he possesses. Defensively, Winn flies all over the field to make tackles and recognizes plays at a very high level. Offensively, Winn is a dynamo whose impact is only limited by the level of the offense’s playcaller. Winn has great deep speed and quickness; whether it is on deep balls or designed touches, Winn can make big plays happen. He is a smooth route runner and is very hard to tackle in space. 2025 cemented Winn as one of the best players in the area, and that should not change in 2026. I am personally very excited to see how Winn closes out a very impressive high school career.
- Jack Whelchel, DB: After watching Jack Whelchel this spring, it is clear that he is just as good as most players in the Palm Beach area. At the Saint Andrew’s practice I attended, the two-way star was a force whenever he was on the field. Whelchel had the speed to chase down ballcarriers sideline-to-sideline; at multiple points, the defender looked like he was gliding on the field. He knocked down passes at the line of scrimmage, won as a pass rusher, and provided lockdown coverage. As an offensive player, Whelchel showcased his speed and showed impressive prowess as a route runner. I truly do not think there is anything that Whelchel cannot do on the field, and I believe that will bear out this season. The Saint Andrew’s star will not be a sleeper for much longer.
- Jack Williams, QB: The player at the helm of a potentially dynamic Saint Andrew’s offense, Jack Williams is in a position to have a really good 2026 season. On top of great athleticism, Williams has a great knack for throwing with touch to all levels of the field. He has easy arm strength and accuracy, which show up when hitting wideouts in stride deep down the field. Williams also understands how to attack defenses; at the spring practice I attended, I liked how he read out a throw up the seam and the timing he had on throws near the sideline. In his senior season, how Williams continues to grow is something I am very intrigued to watch.
Sleeper: Charles Messier, WR
- A transfer from Canada, I loved what I saw from Messier’s game tape once his move was made official. He is an impressive player in contested-catch situations and has more than enough separation skills to be a productive player in Florida high school football. How Messier fits into Saint Andrew’s offense is a fascinating question, and I am very excited to see what he does in 2026. He is a very under-the-radar breakout candidate for me.
Monarch
- Bryan Bynes, WR: All Bryan Bynes does is get open. A 2027 wideout from Monarch, I have loved what I have seen from the wideout in both live game action and 7-on-7 action. At the Spanish River Jamboree, Bynes won through contact, down the field, and in space. He showed off great hands and speed, while also displaying a smoothness that allowed him to consistently play under control. At the FAU 7-on-7, Bynes showed off upper-level speed, body control, route running, and hands. I am very confident that Bynes, a class of 2027 player, will have a big-time 2026 season and raise his stock considerably. If you are not in on this player yet, make sure you change that immediately.
- Sanjae Fisher, WR: Fisher, a recent Charlotte commit, is another dynamic player who needs more buzz than he currently has. Possessing some nice size as an outside wideout, Fisher’s catch radius is a huge plus for him as a player. In his spring game, Fisher made one of the best catches of the night, going up and over a defensive back for a field-flipping play. The wideout also showed some impressive burst in short areas, allowing him to create separation and rack up yardage on designed touches. With another offseason of honing his skills under his belt, I expect Fisher to take yet another leap in his senior season.
- Darren Jeudy, ATH: Yes, the cousin of Jerry Jeudy is a very fun player. Jeudy, a class of 2028 player, makes an impact for Monarch on both sides of the ball. On defense, Jeudy’s range is wildly impressive for a player his age; in his spring game, the ATH made a touchdown-saving tackle by flying downhill after recognizing the play. He also provides nice coverage on passing downs, using his physicality and speed to stop pass catchers. Offensively, Jeudy has the smooth route running, speed, and play strength that runs in the family. I am very intrigued about what position becomes Jeudy’s home, and I think the 2026 season will help determine that fact.
- Gabriele Scarsini, DL: Keep an eye on Gabriele Scarsini as a potentially fast-rising defensive line prospect. As a pass rusher, Scarsini explodes off the ball and beats pass rushers with speed. However, he can also win with his hands and with power, as Scarsini has demonstrated the ability to go straight through an offensive lineman. Scarsini also makes plays in space, as in his spring game, he raced in to make a big tackle from an outside linebacker position. Between his versatility and overall skill set, Scarsini is primed to be a big-time 2028 riser.
Sleepers: Jeremiah Milcent, QB, and Conroy Whyte II, WR
- One of two possible quarterbacks for Monarch this season, Milcent has the arm talent and escapability to be a major factor at the high school level. He had one of the best throws I saw all spring, hitting Bryan Bynes on the move for a huge gain after escaping pressure. He is a 2028 prospect who, if he gets the playing time, can make a name for himself. Conroy Whyte II, another 2028 prospect, is going to be a name to know at the wideout position going forward. Whyte II has great quickness, contact balance, and route running. When needed, Whyte II can also get vertical and make big plays for his offense. He may slot in behind Fisher and Bynes this year, but I still think Whyte II can have a very good 2026 season.
West Orange
- A.J. Chung, QB: The FAU 7-on-7 was the first time I had a chance to watch Chung, and he ended up being one of the more impressive quarterbacks I watched this spring. All throughout the day, the quarterback was decisive and extremely accurate. He attacked coverages correctly and was able to hit throws to all levels of the field. One of the best throws of the day came from Chung, as he perfectly layered a ball on the move over a defensive back for a touchdown. I am very intrigued to see how Chung continues to progress as a player, but he is one of my favorite 2028 quarterbacks, and overall quarterbacks, I have watched this year.
- Yuto Kawamura-Johnson, WR: A.J. Chung’s favorite target at the FAU 7-on-7, I was very impressed by what I saw from Yuto Kawamura-Johnson. The first Japanese-born player to be ranked at the high school level, Kawamura-Johnson has impressive speed and route running prowess. He was a force at the intermediate level of the field, giving Chung great windows to fit the ball into on a consistent basis. Kawamura-Johnson also displayed great hands and deep speed, allowing him to create chunk plays for the West Orange offense. The Toledo commit is flying completely under the radar, and I highly doubt it stays that way for long. Kawamura-Johnson needs way more buzz, and I think he could break out even further in 2026.
- Matheus Kaminski-Cordeiro, EDGE: A 2028 prospect, Matheus Kaminski-Cordeiro is a big-time presence for the West Orange defense. Racking up 20 TFLs and 10 sacks in 2025, Kaminski-Cordeiro wins with both power and speed. He takes on double teams with ease in the run game, rarely losing ground and finding ways to make plays. He is a hyper-active pass rusher, constantly using his hands to work past blockers. Kaminski-Cordeiro also has shown a developing pass rush bag, whether it is a spin move or a speed rush around the corner. His growth this season should be fun to watch, and I would expect more and more teams at the college level to take notice.
Sleeper: Jase Gibson, ATH
- A 2029 prospect, Gibson has shown some impressive speed and route-running at the wideout position. And while not his “main” skill, he has shown the ability to be a contested-catch threat down the field and in the red zone. I think he has the potential to be a very good wideout prospect, and his stock should rise if he puts his skill set on display in the 2026 season.
Chaminade-Madonna
- Tromon Isaac Jr., WR: If you want to see what a true superstar at the wideout position looks like, Chaminade’s Tromon Isaac Jr. is central casting. The star wideout for Chaminade was a force in the team’s intrasquad spring game; he ran excellent routes, made leaping contested catches, and showed off his great overall speed. The wideout’s mentality was in a great place all game; all Isaac Jr. wanted to do was win every rep, and he never took a play off. Isaac Jr. was awesome in 2025, and he will be awesome in 2026 with new quarterback Brady Quinn at the helm. Book it.
- Brady Quinn, QB: Stepping in as Chaminade’s signal-caller for 2026, Brady Quinn is the type of player who could elevate the Lions’ offense to new heights. The standout 2028 prospect has a top-level arm that can touch any blade of grass and hit any throw on the field. He has the arm strength to hit his wideouts deep down the field and the touch to layer throws over defensive backs for red zone touchdowns. I loved what I saw from Quinn in Chaminade’s spring game, and it was not just about his successes. Even after his mistakes, Quinn got back on the field and kept the offense rolling, usually responding with a touchdown. 2026 is a year where Quinn can solidify himself as one of the best quarterbacks in the state and the country, and I am very excited to see it all come together.
- Ah’Mari Stevens, WR: Now an LSU commit, Ah’Mari Stevens is a fantastic complement to Tromon Isaac Jr. in Chaminade’s offense. While he possesses very good route running, Stevens’s best skill is his speed. On designed touches, Stevens can make bad angles catastrophic for defenses, turning would-be short gains into long gains and touchdowns. He beats most defensive backs down the field with ease, creating prime big-time throw opportunities for his quarterback. Stevens is a premier 2027 prospect for a reason, and in his senior season, he should be able to have Brady Quinn take full advantage of his skill set.
- Peter Pierre, ATH: Look, Peter Pierre may be my favorite player in the entire state of Florida, regardless of class. The Chaminade standout is a force as a pass catcher; no matter what he is asked to do, Pierre does it at a high level. On defense, Pierre is a deadly pass rusher, using strength and speed to cause havoc in the backfield. The star ATH has not played a snap in his junior season, and he has 42 offers already. I am excited to see what he does in 2026, as I think Pierre could top his impressive 2025 campaign with a true “breakout” year.
- Derrick Jones Jr., DB: A 2029 prospect, Derrick Jones Jr. is well on his way to being one of the best defensive backs in the state. In Chaminade’s spring game, Jones Jr. made a litany of plays against the run and against the pass. His instincts/play recognition were off the charts, his ball skills resulted in two interceptions, and he had the physicality to go toe-to-toe with Chaminade’s highly talented wideouts. Jones Jr.’s ceiling is immense, and I think he will begin to hit it this season. He is, in my opinion, a borderline lock as a breakout candidate this season.
- John Gay III, DB: Chaminade is littered with talent in the secondary, and John Gay III is one of the best in the group. A Notre Dame commit, Gay III has the combination of instincts and athletic ability to make plays all over the field. In the spring game, Gay III had a great pass breakup, timing the play perfectly to force the ball out. He has the speed to provide lockdown coverage and fill gaps against the run as well. One could argue that Gay III is underrated, and I would be shocked if that is the case after the 2026 season.
Sleepers: Cedric Mitchell, DB, and Clinton Jean-Pierre, RB
- Mitchell, an FIU commit, is yet another defensive back prospect for Chaminade. Possessing the range and ability to make plays on a consistent basis, I think that he is the type of player who could gain more prominence during and after the 2026 season. Jean-Pierre, a 2029 prospect, is one of my favorite running backs I watched all spring. He has great vision, speed, and strength, which he used to rip off multiple good runs in Chaminade’s spring game. Amos Bradford will lead this backfield, but do not be surprised if Jean-Pierre begins to cement himself as the heir to the throne going forward.
Carol City
- Nick Lennear, WR: What is there left to say about Nick Lennear? The Miami commit has a claim to being the best wideout in the country, and for good reason. Lennear’s speed and overall athleticism are impressive, as he can make defenders miss or leave them in the dust. In jump ball situations, the Miami commit is one of the best I have seen in person; his positioning, leaping ability, and strong hands are an impressive combination. Repping Carol City in 2026, expect Lennear to have a massive end to his high school career.
- Malik Leonard, QB: A 2029 prospect who made a major impact for Chaminade last year, Malik Leonard is set to be the signal-caller for Carol City’s offense in 2026. The quarterback’s accuracy and timing are impressive, while his touch on throws down the field has seemingly taken some strides as well. Leonard can hit throws on the move and has no issues standing in the pocket to hit passes, as evidenced last year. Already holding offers from Kentucky and FIU, I would expect more to come in this fall as the quarterback takes further strides as a player. I am excited to see what he can do this year.
- Zakari Johnson, ATH: Another key transfer for Carol City, Zakari Johnson has the talent to be an impact player on both sides of the ball this season. For Cypress Bay in 2025, the Florida State commit had 777 rushing yards, 551 passing yards, and 16 total touchdowns. He also added 10 tackles, 4 pass breakups, and an interception on defense. Johnson was lockdown in coverage during the 305 Sports Invitational this summer, and he also has the ability to produce as a wideout. Whatever Carol City needs from him, Johnson will be able to get it done.
- Aden Johnson, ATH: A towering presence for Carol City, Aden Johnson has some of the highest potential of any player on his team. Holding 29 offers as a 2028 prospect, Johnson wreaks havoc as an edge rusher. He is explosive and powerful off the line of scrimmage, and when linemen try to get hands on him, Johnson already has a good understanding of how to break free. As a pass catcher, Johnson’s catch radius is simply ridiculous. At the 305 Sports Invitational, his best play saw him soaring above two defenders to make a touchdown grab. Combine that with the athleticism to separate at a high rate, and Johnson can be a matchup nightmare. Do not be surprised if he establishes himself as one of the best players in the area this year.
- Temoris Campbell Jr., LB: One of my favorite players from Chaminade’s 2025 defense, I expect nothing different from Temoris Campbell Jr. in 2026. A Georgia commit, the linebacker (as listed on his 24/7 Sports page) had 103 tackles, 10 TFLs, 3.5 sacks, 2 fumble recoveries, a forced fumble, one pass breakup, and one interception last year. Campbell Jr. has top-notch instincts and speed; if he is not accounted for, he will blow up plays at will. Even if defenders do get a hand on him, though, the linebacker has the strength to consistently shed blocks. Expect the Georgia commit to be a centerpiece of the Carol City defense.
Sleepers: Josh Sylvain, WR, Marquel Brooks, WR, and Santana Blount, WR
- Sylvain, a Tulane commit, is a sleeper who could have a massive season for Carol City this year. The contested catch skill is top-notch, and I am a big fan of his overall route running and speed. He has not received the hype of other players on his roster, but make no mistake, he will be a key piece of this Carol City offense in 2026. Brooks, a 2028 prospect, has impressive open-field ability and the speed to make things happen from anywhere on the field. He is underrated as of now, but I think he could break out in 2026. Blount, a West Georgia commit, was lethal at the 305 Sports Invitational. He offers a nice counter to some of the bigger wideouts on the Carol City roster. But make no mistake, Blount has the ability to erase his “sleeper” status this season.
Other Players to Watch
- Brian Dillard, ATH, Evans
- DeMarcus DeRoche, Cardinal Gibbons
- Jaiziah Battle, DB, The First Academy
- Mike Sineace, WR, Park Vista
- Wilzard Sterling, DE, Somerset Canyons
- Tyler Desilma, DE, Palm Beach Central
- Jordyn Chingwa, DE, Palm Beach Lakes
- Stefon Davis, DE, Suncoast
- Je’vontae Johnson, ATH, Boca High
- AJ Fenelus, ATH, Saint John Paul II
- Andre Moss, WR, Dunbar
- Sherrod Gourdine, DB, McArthur
- Lameach Rucker Jr., Southridge
- Javariius Wright, WR, Southridge
- Marquan Burch, WR, Southridge
- Cameron Green, WR, Southridge
- Maximus McKiernan, QB, Miami Northwestern
- Aveion Darien, ATH, Miami Northwestern
- Duece Woods Jr., QB, The First Academy
- Jaylen Johnson, WR, The First Academy
- Antron Branch, WR, McArthur
- Khamarian Young, WR, McArthur
- Frederick Jackson Jr., WR, Dunbar
- Tiheim Hutchins, WR, Dunbar
Florida-Based Elite 11 Notes
Trae Taylor has been arguably the best quarterback in the country this spring and summer, but one of his main competitors for his claim to the throne is University of Miami commit Israel Abrams.
A major standout at the Indianapolis regional back in February, I loved the arm strength and overall game that Abrams displayed. Once he got settled in California, he not only lived up to his standard, but also surpassed it.
Abrams really shined during Day 2 of the Elite 11 Finals, putting together one of my favorite sessions of the entire event. The Illinois native showed quick and smooth footwork on every single throw. Abrams unleashed throws from all types of arm angles, and despite the difficulty of some of them, kept up his high-level accuracy. Additionally, Abrams’s trademark velocity showed up in spades on Day 2. The quarterback was never short on a throw, no matter where it was on the field.
On Day 3, Abrams carved up the opposing defense, just like Taylor. Notching seven of his own passing touchdowns, the Miami commit was positive in every aspect of the game. Abrams was decisive and aggressive down the field on a consistent basis. He was accurate at all levels of the field. It was a true showcase of the massive skill and upside that he possesses, along with a confirmation of why he deserves to be a five-star player.
Despite not getting the nod for The Opening, Davin Davidson’s performance in California was one of my personal favorites.
On Day 1, Davidson did not start as fast as the other quarterbacks. However, he took to coaching at a high level, continued to progress over the course of the drills, and finished the day as good as any other quarterback. Davidson’s accuracy and velocity were top-notch, as was his touch.
Day 2 was more of the same for Davidson, if not even better. The quarterback’s arm strength was top-notch, and when paired with his accuracy to all levels of the field, it resulted in one of the best rounds of the entire Pro Day drill. Davidson’s footwork was smooth, and he made off-platform throws look easy.
And to close things out, Davidson had a very solid showing in his 7-on-7 session. From a footwork perspective, the quarterback was smooth on every throw. His mechanics were repeatable and allowed him to access every level of the field. Davidson was also decisive and accurate, understanding what the defense was showing him and using his arm strength to hit whatever throw he needed to.
A player whose stock has continually risen over the course of the past few months, Davidson truly has everything to be a top-tier quarterback at the college level. His performance in California only verified that to me, and in 2026, I think he will continue to show that he is one of the best in the country.
