Al Pops Trail Mix: 2026’s Around The Country on My Radar 5/2
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.
Derreon Rogers | Tight End | Tennessee
Rogers is an impressive looking prospect at 6-foot-1 and 185 pounds. Physically he’s a strong kid who can get off the line quickly and get off the jams of Defensive Backs and Linebackers. Right now he’s somewhere in between a Tight End and Wide Receiver, but his build leads me to believe he’ll end up as a hybrid Tight End. This will allow coaches to move him around and create favorable matchups.
Landon Clark | Linebacker | Kentucky
Clark is another prospect that looks like he’s a hybrid type of player on the field. He has the size and length of an Outside Linebacker at 6-foot-1 and 150 pounds. However, watching his him, it’s evident the has the hands and awareness of a Free Safety. He’s part of a very special 2026 class headed to Owensboro for High School. Older brother is 2023 prospect Zach Clark.
Dax Hebeisen | Athlete | Texas
I love the way Hebeisen plays the game of football. It’s full speed, aggressive and attacking at all times–regardless of what position he’s lined up at. Offensively he lines up at Tight End if a very versatile weapon with his combination of size and speed. On defense, which is where I personally like him best, he plays a fast, downhill style of Linebacker. Older brother, Jaggar, is a Tight End at Rice.
JaySean Richardson | Defensive Line | Virginia
A bull in a china shop is the best way to describe the way Richardson plays along the defensive front. He has a very quick first step, which allows him to get his hands on Offensive Linemen and dictate where he wants them to go. Stands 6-foot and 270 pounds right now and also plays Running Back on the offensive side of the ball. Has great body control and balance for an interior guy.
Bryce Kock | Offensive Line | Iowa
There’s a lot to be excited about when taking a look at Kock. The future West Lyon Wildcat is currently 6-foot-3 and 250 pounds, which is a great size for an incoming Offensive Lineman. Kock is already squatting over 300 pounds. Not a waste bender. Has functional size and strength most prospects at his size and age, don’t have developed yet.
Jackson Cantwell | Offensive Line | Missouri
Another very big prospect who is just ending his eighth grade year, Cantwell is already 6-foot-8 and 250 pounds. He’s the son of former Olympian shot-putter, Christian Cantwell. Like his Dad, Cantwell is also an elite shot-putter and currently is ranked No.1 in the country. Also a standout basketball prospect and benches over 300 pounds for reps. He’s a special athlete.
Kadan Spratling | Linebacker | Georgia
Spratling is a really impressive all-around athlete, that appears to be finding a home at Linebacker. At 6-foot and 190 pounds, he has also played Running Back and Defensive End during his career at Central Middle School. Also a stand out in Track and Field and was named the Field MVP of the state meet after finishing first in discuss, second in shot-put, fourth in the high jump and seventh in the 4×1.
Jeremiah Babo | Tight End | West Virginia
A big, new-age Tight End that is a mix between Wide Receiver and your traditional hand in the dirt Tight End. Possesses good size at 6-foot-3 and 185 pounds with good hands. Looks natural catching the ball away from his body. Babo can excel being used more as an intermediate receiver to keep the chains moving. Also can highpoint the ball in the back corner if asked to, as well.
Kordaé Houston | Defensive Line | Texas
A standout on a loaded North Texas Bills youth team this past year, Houston is not even close to reaching his ceiling when it comes to his ability. Currently standing in the 6-foot-3 range and right around 200 pounds, Houston plays the game with violent hands. Long arms allow him to create separation at the line, and his advanced pass rush moves help him set up shop in the backfield.
Will Andrade | Defensive Back | New Jersey
Everyone talks about being “Jersey Strong” or having a “Jersey Attitude” and that’s what Andrade brings to the table. He’s on the smaller side right now but he plays significantly bigger than his measurements. Quick-twitch athlete who loves to hit. Whether it be in run support or on unsuspecting Wide Receivers going across the middle. Has a mean streak and can lay the wood.