Updated 2026 Player Rankings – Stock-Risers

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We have been busy observing players at camps, 7on7 competitions, discussions with coaches and fellow scouts to further evaluate the Class of 2026. There were 69 prospects included in this updated player rankings. This review covers 6 players whose performances during the past season and offseason were worthy of moving them up in the rankings.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='284097' first='Samari' last='Matthews'] - DB, 6'1" 180 (Previously No. 2 DB, No. 1 DB, No. 1 Overall), Hough HS</strong>. Samari displayed good technique on tackles made in the open field. He displayed speed to cover a lot of ground quickly to close in on the ball carrier. He displayed the ability to change directions quickly to cover receivers. Samari finished the season with 33 total tackles, 1 which was for a loss. He finished the season with 21 solo tackles. Samari has received a D1 offer, more are expected to follow.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='662372' first='Zavion' last='Griffin-Haynes'] - DL, 6'6" 210 (Previously unranked, No. 1 DL, No. 8 Overall), Hillside HS</strong>. Zavion displayed quickness out of his stance to make contact with blockers while moving past them for stops. He displayed good use of hands and good technique to control blockers while closing in on the ball carrier. He has a bright upside as he continues to gain size and strength. Zavion will continue to improve his skillset during offseason training and participation in Summer Prospect Camps.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='223038' first='Justin' last='Abanquah'] - LB, 5'10" 195 (Previously No. 6 LB, No. 2 LB, No. 19 Overall), Ardrey Kell HS</strong>. Justin displayed patience to let the play develop before reacting quickly to make a stop. He displayed good lateral movement and speed to cover a lot of ground quickly to close in on the ball carrier. Justin will continue to improve his skillset during offseason training and participation in Summer Prospect Camps.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='697368' first='Logan' last='Pulley'] - OL, 6'4" 260 (Previously unranked, No. 3 OL, No. 3 OL, No. 24 Overall), Rolesville HS</strong>. Logan displayed good footwork and technique to control defenders while opening lanes for the running backs. He displayed upper body strength and quickness to drive-block defenders out of the play. I reviewed film and he had some impressive blocks on film. Logan will continue to improve his skillset during offseason training and participation in Summer Prospect Camps.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='620328' first='Jackson' last='Debe'] - QB, 6'3" 175 (Previously unranked, No. 1 QB, No. 2 Overall), Providence HS</strong>. Jackson displayed good arm strength on short and medium range throws. He delivered accurate throws on target to receivers with good ball velocity. He displayed a smooth throwing motion with a quick release. The young quarterback already has some impressive film. Jackson has received Power5 and D1 offers, more are expected to follow.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='618281' first='Khalil' last='Palmer'] - WR, 5'11" 185 (Previously unranked, No. 4 WR, No. 11 Overall), Millbrook HS</strong>. Khalil ran good pass routes and separation from defenders to make catches. He did a good job using his body to shield defenders on catches made in traffic. He displayed speed to accelerate past defenders after making the catch to gain additional yardage.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->