Al Pops Trail Mix: 2026’s Around The Country on My Radar 4/25
As middle school athletes, new studs are hopping on the radar almost daily at Prep Redzone Next. With so many different age groups, weight limits, division, etc. there’s no exact science to finding middle school athletes, but they’re certainly out…
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Continue ReadingAs middle school athletes, new studs are hopping on the radar almost daily at Prep Redzone Next. With so many different age groups, weight limits, division, etc. there’s no exact science to finding middle school athletes, but they’re certainly out there. Let’s take a look at a few 2026’s that have opened my eyes, as their film has come across my desk.
Cody Taylor | Arkansas | Offensive Line
Taylor made the move from Kansas City to Greenwood, Ark and will be playing alongside promising 2026 Quarterback, Kane Archer next season. Taylor visited the University of Arkansas this past weekend and said he loved everything about the experience. Things on the recruiting trail are just starting for the eighth grader, but at 6-foot-3 and 265 pounds, there’s no slowing it down now.
Eli Johnson | Wide Receiver | Nebraska
The most obvious thing about Johnson’s game at this point is the sheer size mismatch he brings to the field. Being an eighth grader at 6-foot-2 and 185 pounds might not be considered as abnormal as it once was, it’s still fairly rare in the state of Nebraska. Johnson isn’t a burner but does a great job of creating separation by using his length. I wouldn’t rule out a position change to Tight End in the future.
Evan Budinger | Quarterback | Delaware
Red Lion Christian Academy will have the services of the 6-foot-3, 170-pound Budinger for the next four years–and the program couldn’t be more excited. Budinger saw some time this past season in mop up duty but should be getting the keys to the car this year. He’s a big kid that has played Defensive End in the past, but looks like he’ll be QB1 going forward. Moves well for a longer Quarterback.
Jack Offerdahl | Athlete | Colorado
Jack Offerdahl is the younger brother of Charles Offerdahl, who exploded for two touchdowns in the Colorado Buffaloes spring game. Little brother Jack appears to be on the same exact trajectory, having just wrapped up a phenomenal middle school career. At 5-foot-10 and 150 pounds, he’s a switch army knife offensively. He can literally be lined up at nearly any position and succeed.
Callen Morrison | Athlete | Virginia
A talented two-sport star, Morrison has a lot of potential in both football and basketball. One of the most highly touted Guards on the hardwood, what Morrison does on gridiron is equally impressive. He has the ability to take the most mundane swing passes and turn them into long gainers. As you’d expect with a Guard in hoops, his fast-twitch muscle fibers are on another level. Quickness personified.
Edward Baker | Offensive Line | Maryland
The 6-foot-3, 285-pound big guy had a very dominant career for the Old Town Gators during his youth career. Next year he’ll be off to St. Frances Academy, joining one of the most star-studded rosters in the DMV, if not the country. At this size he predominantly played Tackle the last couple years, but I feel he could slide inside if asked of him. Very bright future for the Baker.