PRZ Next Watch List Vol. 2 — Cali Defensive Back Newcomers
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The Prep RedZone Next class of 2026 Watch List Vol. 2 was recently released. This is a list of prospects, not yet in high school, that look to project to play at the FBS/FCS/Division 2 levels in the future. By…
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Continue ReadingThe Prep RedZone Next class of 2026 Watch List Vol. 2 was recently released. This is a list of prospects, not yet in high school, that look to project to play at the FBS/FCS/Division 2 levels in the future.
By no means is this list a sure thing, finalized or complete. It will be updated twice more before the end of August 2022. Again, these are not rankings nor are they an end-all, be-all lists. These are the prospects that we have seen, that stand out to our team.
Below, we’ll take a look at the class of 2026 California prospects, labeled as defensive back prospects, that are currently on the Watch List.
Jayden Crowder Jayden Crowder 5'11" | 165 lbs | DB Santa Margarita | 2026 State CA | Defensive Back
Crowder is a defensive back who isn’t afraid to get his hands on receivers and try and alter their routes. He plays physically, has a good knack for finding the football and shows he has the ability to lock down other teams top receivers.
Zechariah Fort Zechariah Fort DB CA | Defensive Back
This Under Armour All-American has the looks of a top prospect. He’s got great size with very quick feet and fluid hips. He does a good job anticipating and jumping routes and showcases great ability to break on the ball.
Josh Holland Josh Holland 6'3" | 185 lbs | ATH St. John Bosco | 2026 State CA | Defensive Back
The 6-foot, 160-pound Holland is a force on the defensive side of the ball. He’s a heavy hitter who doesn’t shy away from contact and isn’t afraid to stick his nose in on tackles. He’s got good length and speed and the ability to be a star at the next level.
Deon Jackson Deon Jackson 5'10" | 165 lbs | DB Long Beach Poly | 2026 State CA | Defensive Back
Jackson plays with great anticipation and understanding of the game. He’s often seen jumping routes or playing through a defender to get to where the ball is going. He’s quick in and out of his breaks and plays with great leverage.
Cash Pearsall Cash Pearsall 6'1" | 175 lbs | DB Orange Lutheran | 2026 CA | Defensive Back
The 5-foot-11, 160-pound Pearsall patrols the center of the field and does a good job with help over the top. He understands route concepts and is often in a good position to either break up or intercept the pass.
Chase Wesley Chase Wesley 6'0" | 170 lbs | ATH Culver City | 2026 CA | Defensive Back
Wesley is a standout on both sides of the ball. We know about his receiving skills but he also stars on the defensive side where he does a good job locking onto receivers and altering their routes. He’s big and physical which he uses to his ability.
Matsen Wurm Matsen Wurm 6'0" | 170 lbs | WR Folsom | 2026 CA | Defensive Back
The 5-foot-11, 140-pound safety isn’t afraid to lay the wood. He takes great angles, gets to the ball in a hurry and is always looking to knock the ball free from offenders. He does a good job commanding the center of the field and is one of the top safeties in the state.