PrepRedzoneIL 2026 Rankings Update: Top-20 Breakdown

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I am fortunate and thrilled to take over this cycle of the <em>PrepRedzoneIL </em>rankings. Professionally, it's a major and important Midwestern state recruiting-wise that P5-JUCO programs around the country rely on to fill their recruiting classes year to year, as well as a fertile and talented stomping ground for prep football products at all positions, so it presents a crucial assignment for a recruiting analyst like myself to take on and do right. Personally, my soon-to-be wife is from Edison Park, Chicago, so I have my own growing roots in the state and have seen a lot of these programs up close and in-person, so between the work &amp; play dynamics I feel I am up to the task and respect the state's talent to the point that I can do the Land of Lincoln justice. After more than a week of research, gathering names, ranking &amp; reranking, and doing my due diligence as an evaluator, I am more than excited to present the inaugural <em>PrepRedzoneIL </em>2026 rankings. Stacked with talent across the state and covering every position on the gridiron, the 2026 class is already looking fantastic, particularly at the top end. To kick off the coverage, we're starting with a straightforward breakdown of the Top 20, where P5 flair, ability, and potential run wild, and the future superstars of the state currently reside. Get to know them below! You'll be hearing a lot about these names over the next three years in the Great State of Illinois. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>--</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["800191"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"The Big Dog of the initial 2026 rankings release goes to u003cemu003eBolingbrooku003c/emu003e 6'3, 195 lber. u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='800191' first='Jonas' last='Williams']u003c/strongu003e. A well-known name in the Land of Lincoln for a couple of years now, u003cstrongu003eWilliamsu003c/strongu003e mans the all-important quarterback position, and although there's a lot of talent at a lot of different positions in this 2026 class, I'd be surprised if u003cstrongu003eWilliamsu003c/strongu003e ever relinquishes that #1 spot in the Illinois 2026 big board. He's a national, blue-chip type recruit, and big-time schools haven't been hesitant to reach out, despite his age. He's a week off becoming the first offer from the Fighting Bret Bielema's at the University of Illinois. Before that, u003cstrongu003eWilliamsu003c/strongu003e had received offers from Michigan, Pitt, Tennessee, Louisville, Marshall, Purdue, and Kent State. Not bad for a rising sophomore going into the summer. As a freshman, Williams finished the season with 2,737 yards and 37 TDs in 10 games of action against Illinois big-sch00l competition. Strong arm, accuracy to all three levels of the field, great pocket awareness and footwork, timing, and a quick release u0026amp; a clean, consistent throwing motion are just a few of the things I enjoy from his tape as a first-year high schooler, and he looks u0026amp; plays far above his age would suggest. We have a long and sensational ride left to go in this, folks! Buckle up and enjoy it.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_1_player":["212319"],"_player_evaluations_1_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_1_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_1_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_1_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_1_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"Coming in at #2 overall in the Illinois 2026 rankings update, 6'7, 220+ pound u003cemu003eMt. Zionu003c/emu003e TE/DE and stud hooper u003cstrongu003eJCu003c/strongu003e u003cstrongu003eAndersonu003c/strongu003e is a different type of freshman and one you don't come across very often. As a varsity contributor in 2022, u003cstrongu003eAndersonu003c/strongu003e sports an extremely long frame with similarly long strides that generate good speed and can step u0026amp; slip through tackle attempts at his lower body after the catch. Also has soft hands and a huge catch radius, is tough, and is willing to go over the middle and secure the ball through traffic and potential contact. u003cstrongu003eAndersonu003c/strongu003e can also break his routes off well for a big guy and is overall coordinated and balanced as a 14-15-year-old kid of his size. It presents a potential matchup nightmare for opposing defenses and one that u003cemu003eMt. Zionu003c/emu003e is going to fully unleash this fall, as well as an eye-catching blend of measurables and athletic gifts that college programs are always in need of and on the lookout for. With the basketball background on top of everything else, u003cstrongu003eAnderson u003c/strongu003ehas a ton going for him, and the in-state Illini have taken notice, as the rising sophomore visited Champaign during the fall for a gameday and a couple of weekends ago for another unofficial. Additionally, the u003cemu003eBravesu003c/emu003e are well represented on the 2026 big board and watchlist and is a program you should keep an eye on for the next few cycles. Their pass-catching room is stacked.","_player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_2_player":["283926"],"_player_evaluations_2_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_2_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_2_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_2_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_2_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_2_evaluation":"Our #3 overall prospect in the u003cemu003ePRzILu003c/emu003e 2026 rankings update was called a u0022no-brainer Power-5 receiveru0022 by our NSD and General Manager Jake Lemming, u003cemu003eCarmel Catholic High Schoolu003c/emu003e and Carpentersville product u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='283926' first='Kai' last='Owens']u003c/strongu003e is currently gripping the WR1 spot in what is a LOADED class of pass catchers from the Land of Lincoln 2026s. I'm telling you again, the WR position group in the 2026 u003cemu003ePRzILu003c/emu003e rankings is stacked, and it is no small feat heading the pack, and u003cstrongu003eOwensu003c/strongu003e is going to continue to have to grind and develop his skillset to keep some of these guys off his heels. Good thing he's got game, and with good speed and size and soft hands, the 6'2, 165 lber. is quick at the top of the route and out of his breaks, and a good, natural route runner who has the ability to both move his offense downfield in methodical fashion or take the top off the defense and create explosive plays downfield. Sadly, u003cemu003eCarmel Catholicu003c/emu003e saw a fantastic freshman starter transfer to Florida powerhouse u003cemu003eSt. Thomas Aquinasu003c/emu003e in linebacker Phillip Goodrich Jr., but their star power in the 2026 class remains strong in the hands of u003cstrongu003eOwensu003c/strongu003e. Can't wait to see these receivers ball out in 2023!","_player_evaluations_2_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_3_player":["212317"],"_player_evaluations_3_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_3_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_3_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_3_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_3_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_3_evaluation":"Coming out of 2022 5A state runner-up u003cemu003ePeoriau003c/emu003e, 6'4, 300 lb. offensive lineman u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='212317' first='Jaquarius' last='Green']u003c/strongu003e is our #4 overall prospect and #1 offensive lineman in the inaugural 2026 u003cemu003ePRzILu003c/emu003e rankings update. The sizeable freshman opened a ton of holes for his productive u003cemu003eLionsu003c/emu003e RB room last fall, and he's set to be even more of a road grader this fall with a year in a high school weight room and conditioning program under his belt. Like all the #1 positional prospects right now, u003cstrongu003eGreenu003c/strongu003e has some talented and top-tier peers nipping at his heels but has a good foundation of strength, technique, and experience after starting on u003cemu003ePeoria'su003c/emu003e OL all of 2022. Although he could benefit from a little more weight loss, the big fella is still balanced, quick, and can get out of his stance and move well laterally, which allows him to get out of his stance quickly and pull or trap effectively and impressively across or around the LOS. What's more impressive is his explosiveness and strength at the point of attack, where he routinely sends opponents flying backward and onto their butts like they bounced off a medicine ball. He's a battering ram at the contact point and is athletic enough to stay upright and on his feet through contact and looking for more action. u003cstrongu003eGreenu003c/strongu003e is also experienced in pass pro and can successfully work laterally as well. Although he has to still work on developing his body, the important pieces are present and visible and he's a beast for his age. Keep an eye on how this OL class keeps growing and changing going forward.","_player_evaluations_3_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_4_player":["801698"],"_player_evaluations_4_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_4_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_4_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_4_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_4_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_4_evaluation":"The fantastic freshman out of u003cemu003eCarl Sandburgu003c/emu003e heads our top-notch u003cemu003ePRzILu003c/emu003e 2026 defensive line positional class and possesses one of my favorite highlight tapes in all of the freshman class. A varsity starter last fall, 6'3, 240 lb. u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='801698' first='Jaden' last='Weaver']u003c/strongu003e played NG, 3T and 5T in 2022 and also competes in basketball and lacrosse for the u003cemu003eEaglesu003c/emu003e. u003cstrongu003eWeaver u003c/strongu003ehas a dynamic and physically impressive skillset for his age, which includes an eye-popping get-off and great twitch, a powerful u0026amp; sturdy base, and good strength that can hold his ground, fight off 1-on-1 and double teams, and make tackles through contact. I also love his motor, his punch can turn blockers hips when it finds paydirt, and he's a powerful tackler who crumples and sends ball carriers backwards when he puts his pads on them. The more I watch u003cstrongu003eWeaver'su003c/strongu003e tape the more I like it. Big things coming for this young man, I can't wait to watch him in 2023.","_player_evaluations_4_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_5_player":["212322"],"_player_evaluations_5_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_5_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_5_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_5_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_5_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_5_evaluation":"Wheaton's u003cemu003eSt. Francis High Schoolu003c/emu003e has one of the best freshman classes in the entire Land of Lincoln and have a monster of a WR in 2026 6'2,, 175 lber. u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='212322' first='Zachary' last='Washington']u003c/strongu003e. The pass catcher posted a whopping 23 TDs last fall, three of which came on varsity for the 4A heavyweight, which made up more than half of his five varsity receptions as a freshman. u003cstrongu003eWashingtonu003c/strongu003e has been putting in work and sharpening his skills on the 7-on-7 circuit this offseason, and I'm excited to see what the results yield, as u003cstrongu003eWashingtonu003c/strongu003e already laid the foundation of a big play wideout from his play last fall. Splash-play speed downfield, quick feet in his releases at the LOS and top of the route, and burst and shiftiness after the catch, u003cstrongu003eWashingtonu003c/strongu003e was too talented for non-varsity competition last fall and looked like a man amongst boys with the ball in his hands. He already displayed some commanding reps against varsity DBs as a young freshman and will take his rightful place as a full-time varsity WR this upcoming season. With stud QB [player_tooltip player_id='121350' first='Alessio' last='Milivojevic'] throwing him the pigskin, I see production and a ton more TDs on the horizon for the u003cemu003eSpartansu003c/emu003e passing game this fall. You'll be hearing about some more u003cemu003eSt. Francisu003c/emu003e 2026s in the upcoming u003cemu003ePRzILu003c/emu003e rankings coverage. Stay tuned!","_player_evaluations_5_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_6_player":["401605"],"_player_evaluations_6_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_6_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_6_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_6_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_6_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_6_evaluation":"Continuing a long line of u003cemu003eHinsdale Central Red Devilu003c/emu003e gifted offensive linemen over the last decade, which includes Brian Allen (Michigan State/LA Rams), Doug Kramer (Illinois), Tristan Nevotne (Fordham), Nick Piker (Holy Cross), Matt Allen (Michigan State), Mike Johnson (Army), Stefan Ivanisevic (Princeton), Brian Foley (Holy Cross), Nikola Ivanisevic (Princeton), Drew Christensen (WashU), and Jack McGarry (Mizzou), who together make a star-studded and accomplished crop of maulers that make the u003cemu003eRed Devilsu003c/emu003e a must-stop on the Land of Lincoln OL recruiting trail. Continuing the tradition is 6'4, 270 lb. freshman u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='401605' first='Gene' last='Riordan']u003c/strongu003e, who possesses as much upside as any of the aforementioned studs on this list and comes in as the current OL #2 and #7 overall ranked prospect in the Illinois 2026 big board. Also a standout lacrosse defender, u003cstrongu003eRiordanu003c/strongu003e split time between varsity and the sophomore team of u003cemu003eHinsdale Centralu003c/emu003e and looks bendy, comfortable, and effective working at the second level of the defense, and can fly out of his stance to pull or trap across the LOS. I also love his strength and leg drive once he gets engaged with an opponent, and he's particularly nasty when working a double team on a helpless defensive lineman or linebacker. You can see the athleticism in his LAX highlights as well, where he can start/stop and flip his hips well in defense, and for his age and size u003cstrongu003eRiordanu003c/strongu003e moves very well and is light on his feet in impressive fashion. u003cemu003eHinsdale Centralu003c/emu003e has another standout mauler on their hands!","_player_evaluations_6_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_7_player":["212315"],"_player_evaluations_7_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_7_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_7_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_7_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_7_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_7_evaluation":"The #1 ranked athlete in the u003cemu003ePRzILu003c/emu003e 2026 inaugural rankings introduction, 6'1, 170 lb. u003cemu003eAurora Christianu003c/emu003e WR, DB, and occasionally quarterback u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='212315' first='Jalen' last='Carter']u003c/strongu003e brings his dynamic athleticism to multiple sports for the u003cemu003eEaglesu003c/emu003e and is also a gifted hooper and baseball player out of the Chicago suburb around an hour west of downtown. The u003cemu003eEaglesu003c/emu003e made a noticeable effort to get the ball in his hands on offense, and u003cstrongu003eCarteru003c/strongu003e made some tremendous gains on simple two-step out routes as a flexed-out wing, many of which were well-defended and saw LBs/DBs in position to wrap him up for minimal gains. However, u003cstrongu003eCarter'su003c/strongu003e vision and exceptional ability in space allowed him to turn what looked like 1-2 yard gains into long TD runs filled with broken tackles. He also showed off a big catch radius as a wideout, and as a defensive back, I liked how he used his speed to pursue and track down ball carriers all over the field, as well as make beautiful plays on the ball when it's in the air. u003cstrongu003eCarteru003c/strongu003e also was more than able to step in at QB and keep his offense humming, which is yet another testament to his overall dynamic ability and athleticism. Now, he's the #1 ranked athlete in the state of Illinois' freshman class, and I'm interested to see where college programs project him to at the next level. Given the talent, this should happen sooner rather than later.","_player_evaluations_7_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_8_player":["325063"],"_player_evaluations_8_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_8_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_8_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_8_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_8_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_8_evaluation":"It's hard not to get excited about u003cemu003eMarist High School'su003c/emu003e 6'7, 330 lber. u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='325063' first='Rico' last='Schrieber']u003c/strongu003e, our current #9 overall prospect and #3 ranked offensive lineman. A former u003cemu003ePrepRedzoneNEXTu003c/emu003e OL MVP from last spring, u003cstrongu003eSchrieberu003c/strongu003e is already on the home state Illini's recruiting board and is fresh off an unofficial visit to Champaign earlier this month. The only real knock I had against him in 2022 was the lack of varsity action, but as a representative at heavyweight CCL competitor u003cemu003eMaristu003c/emu003e, that's not a huge deal, although it does put more pressure and more of a spotlight on his upcoming sophomore season. However, u003cstrongu003eSchrieberu003c/strongu003e showed he has the tools to find success at the varsity and future college level last fall, as he was a man amongst boys against non-varsity competition and was especially crushing at the point of attack. Already a good athlete at his size, the 6'7, 330 lber. showed he can break down and change direction in space to handle smaller, quicker defenders, as well as bend, work laterally, and adjust/use opponents momentum against them in his already impressive pass set. I also love his finishing ability, and he created some huge hits when he made clean contact on a defender. The body control and flexibility for his size u0026amp; age is a rare find when evaluating freshman and if he continues to develop and add muscle while shedding some of the bad weight he's a surefire P5 offensive tackle. Big fall for the big boy as he makes a push for varsity action with the u003cemu003eRedhawksu003c/emu003e.","_player_evaluations_8_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_9_player":["801699"],"_player_evaluations_9_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_9_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_9_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_9_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_9_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_9_evaluation":"Another classic downstate Illinois giant along the offensive line, u003cemu003eOlney High Schoolu003c/emu003e has a freshman phenom on their hands in 6'7, 260 lb. OT u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='801699' first='Casey' last='Thomann']u003c/strongu003e. A varsity starter as a freshman, u003cstrongu003eThomannu003c/strongu003e is one of a few standout first years already distinctly on the radar of the Illini, as the massive lineman already has three visits to Champaign under his belt, one in the fall and two more this spring. A four-sport athlete who also competes in basketball, baseball, and track u0026amp; field, u003cstrongu003eThomann u003c/strongu003ehad a strong first year of high school ball on the gridiron, and displayed mobility and brute strength as the Tigers right tackle. Sends defenders flying when he extends his arms into contact, is fluid moving and blocking laterally along the LOS, and can effectively pull as the backside tackle and mirror and shut down LBs at the second level of the defense. If he can continue to work on adding strength and flexibility he's going to be a big-time collegiate prospect and another monster out of southern Illinois.","_player_evaluations_9_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_10_player":["212320"],"_player_evaluations_10_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_10_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_10_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_10_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_10_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_10_evaluation":"Another popular and well-known name coming out of the Illinois youth football ranks, quarterback u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='212320' first='Owen' last='Lansu']u003c/strongu003e took his talents tou003cemu003e Downers Grove North u003c/emu003eafter earning a boatload of awards and distinctions as a middle school gunslinger. He kept the momentum going into high school and has been a hot name on the spring 7v7 and workout circuit, and toughed it out through injuries this fall to help his JV/sophomore teams to a 7-2 record while showing off a big, live arm with a tight u0026amp; consistent spiral, pocket awareness and impressive scrambling ability, and accuracy. He's on the radars of a ton of P5 programs with some big names mixed in there and makes for another special Illinois native at the QB position in this 2026 class. When things blow up for this kid it's going to be cosmic.","_player_evaluations_10_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_11_player":["401621"],"_player_evaluations_11_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_11_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_11_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_11_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_11_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_11_evaluation":"6'2, 220 lb. linebacker u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='401621' first='Leon' last='Howard']u003c/strongu003e out of powerhouse u003cemu003eEast. St. Louisu003c/emu003e is a heat-seeking missile and was a fun tape to watch for defensive-minded scouts like yours truly. Howard has made waves both with pads during the fall and in camp settings this spring, showing off his legit u0026amp; powerful build, change of direction ability, and speed. In 2022, his varsity reps primarily came on special teams and kickoff coverage, but there are definitely LB reps mixed in, and no matter where he's lined up, u003cstrongu003eHowardu003c/strongu003e plays like a bat out of hell and is my pick for the hardest hitter in the u003cemu003ePRzILu003c/emu003e c/o 2026 rankings. Dudes with his strength and hair-on-fire mentality are the reasons corporate football is trying to phase out the kickoff, as u003cstrongu003eHowardu003c/strongu003e laid some massive, bone-crunching hits on both returners and helpless blockers that are more than worth a watch and give you a good sense of his play-style and aggression. As a LB, u003cstrongu003eHowardu003c/strongu003e reads his keys and locates u0026amp; closes on the ball quickly, and I also like his sideline-to-sideline range and comfortability when tackling in space. To no surprise, he's also a crushing tackler and does a great job of minimizing gains on opposing ball carriers, plus the added bonus of leaving a physical impression on his opponents that can psych them out over four quarters. I cannot wait to get more padded reps of our LB1.","_player_evaluations_11_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_12_player":["801700"],"_player_evaluations_12_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_12_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_12_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_12_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_12_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_12_evaluation":"Dunlap, Illinois, a town of around 1,500 located less than a half-hour north of Peoria, is home to a fantastic freshman in u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='801700' first='Mack' last='Sutter']u003c/strongu003e, our 13th-ranked overall prospect and #2 rated athlete in the u003cemu003ePRzILu003c/emu003e inaugural 2026 rankings. At 6'5, 215+ pounds, there's obvious physical upside in his strong and still-growing frame, and although he's currently a promising prep QB with the arm strength to fit the ball into tight windows and accurately complete tougher out-breaking throws, mobility, and touch on his downfield passes, I'm not ready to categorize him into one position just yet. When he takes off and runs he can run through tackle attempts with frightening ease, and when you combine it with his size and overall athleticism as a young buck, there's just too much potential at too many positions to lock him into the QB spot just yet. It's not a bad thing, as versatility is a huge asset and gives a player an easier path to playing time, no matter the level. When a kid is as young, athletic, and big as the u003cemu003eDunlap Eagleu003c/emu003e is, the potential seems endless, and I'm especially intrigued to see what the future has in store for u003cstrongu003eSutteru003c/strongu003e, whether it's at QB or somewhere else on the gridiron.","_player_evaluations_12_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_13_player":["401622"],"_player_evaluations_13_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_13_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_13_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_13_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_13_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_13_evaluation":"The younger brother of current Valpo linebacker Wade Abrams, who was a key cog in the u003cemu003eTrojan'su003c/emu003e magical 2021 6A state title run and 14-0 record, 6'3, 220 lb. freshman DE u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='401622' first='Logan' last='Abrams'] u003c/strongu003ehas a bright future ahead of him and is already bigger than his older brother, a fact I'm sure does not sit comfortably with Wade! u003cstrongu003eLoganu003c/strongu003e makes his debut as the 14th-ranked overall 2026 Illinois prospect and the #2 defensive lineman and brings a useful wrestling background to the table as a DL, TE, FB, and LS for u003cemu003eCary-Groveu003c/emu003e. As a varsity contributor last fall as a freshman, u003cstrongu003eAbrams u003c/strongu003eshows off length and a frame that can easily hold significantly more good weight and muscle, as well as a heavy punch that can freeze blockers when he makes contact and extends. He can get skinny to slip through combo attempts between the tackles and has a noticeable, nonstop motor, and pursuit speed that allows him to track the ball down all over the field. He's a still bit raw technique-wise and will benefit from a year in the u003cemu003eTrojan'su003c/emu003e weight room, but the physical and mental tools are present and flash impressively in his limited freshman tape. The u003cstrongu003eAbramsu003c/strongu003e boys can ball!","_player_evaluations_13_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_14_player":["470474"],"_player_evaluations_14_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_14_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_14_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_14_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_14_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_14_evaluation":"Yet another baller of a WR at the top-end and overall in the inaugural u003cemu003ePRzILu003c/emu003e 2026 rankings, u003cemu003eCarbondale Communityu003c/emu003e 6', 160 lber. u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='470474' first='Damar'eon' last='Cawthon']u003c/strongu003e is a speedster on the perimeter of the Terrier's offense and electric after the catch. Sudden and twitchy when cutting and changing direction, u003cstrongu003eCawthon'su003c/strongu003e vision and burst out of his cuts help him turn simple screens and receptions into exciting, momentum-changing gains for his offense, and his speed can torch man coverage and take the top off the defense. He also uses that speed impressively as a gunner on punt coverage, and he also showed he can tackle in space and out on the edge as a cornerback. I do think offense suits him the best at this point though, as his cutting ability and skills at making the first man miss, plus that top-end speed are game-changers and quite impressive for a young buck of u003cstrongu003eCawthon'su003c/strongu003e age and size. Gosh, this WR class is loaded, and our 15th-ranked overall prospect and current WR3 are up there with the best of them.","_player_evaluations_14_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_15_player":["279386"],"_player_evaluations_15_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_15_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_15_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_15_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_15_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_15_evaluation":"Of all the fun, impressive, and stirring freshman film I watched in preparation for the inaugural u003cemu003ePRzILu003c/emu003e 2026 rankings unveiling, I believe my favorite tape goes to u003cemu003eFenwicku003c/emu003e 5'11, 175 lb. RB/LB/DB hybrid u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='279386' first='Tommy' last='Thies']u003c/strongu003e. I got to see the u003cemu003eFriarsu003c/emu003e take on u003cemu003eJCAu003c/emu003e during the abbreviated spring season a couple of years back and came away impressed with their tough, scrappy, and athletic defenders, and I see a lot of those parallels in our #16 ranked overall freshman. u003cstrongu003eThiesu003c/strongu003e has more upside than the u003cemu003eFenwicku003c/emu003e defenders I saw on that cold spring day however, and he joined his varsity counterparts in the state playoffs last fall as a testament to his talent. Although he's currently categorized as an athlete, u003cstrongu003eThiesu003c/strongu003e projects to the defensive side of the ball in my opinion but sits between a LB and DB at this point given his size. He does have good offensive reps however, showing off top-end speed, vision, and shiftiness in the open field, but the defensive highlights are what really get me fired up. This dude flies to the ball like he's shot out of a cannon, and shows off phenomenal pursuit u0026amp; closing speed that helps him get to the ball in the blink of an eye and before a play can really develop. u003cstrongu003eThiesu003c/strongu003e possesses sideline-to-sideline range, game-changing speed on both sides of the ball, and is a total thumper at the point of contact, easily able to dish out big hits above his weight class. No matter where he's at on the field he makes good things happen, and if you take your eye off him for a second you'll be sorry. No wonder the u003cemu003eFriarsu003c/emu003e wanted him as close to the ball as possible. u003cemu003ePRzILu003c/emu003e is pumped to see how he continues to develop.","_player_evaluations_15_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_16_player":["801701"],"_player_evaluations_16_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_16_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_16_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_16_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_16_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_16_evaluation":"Already an accomplished high school athlete on the gridiron and wrestling mat, u003cemu003eBelleville Eastu003c/emu003e freshman lineman u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='801701' first='Jonathan' last='Rulo']u003c/strongu003e earned Second Team All-Conference honors as a defensive lineman and placed 3rd at the recent 2023 3A state wrestling tournament as a heavyweight. Coming out of the talent-rich St. Louis area, you should already know Rulo possesses ability and flair in droves, and the 6'2, 285 lber. is still right at the beginning of his athletic journey after posting 34 tackles, a sack, and a defensive TD in 2022. I absolutely love wrestler/football hybrids, particularly in trenches, and u003cstrongu003eRulou003c/strongu003e has all of the skills you'd hope for in a dual-sporter of his mettle. With a good get-off, strength at the point of attack, and heavy hands, u003cstrongu003eRulou003c/strongu003e is very disruptive in run support and gets opponents on their heels in preparation for his power. Luckily, he's got some twitch as well, and has a good rep of him beating a double team against two accomplished u003cemu003eEast St.u003c/emu003e u003cemu003eLouisu003c/emu003e OL before pressuring the QB into an errant pass. I also like his playmaking mentality from the DL spot (see his scoop-and-score for evidence), and he's a strong tackler who can make plays in the backfield when given the opportunity. He can keep that pad level consistently low and add a bit more quickness to his game than u003cstrongu003eRulou003c/strongu003e is going to be a matchup nightmare for iOL and OTs alike. He's just getting started!","_player_evaluations_16_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_17_player":["800192"],"_player_evaluations_17_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_17_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_17_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_17_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_17_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_17_evaluation":"If I get to claim any high school in Chicago, it'd be u003cemu003eTaft High.u003c/emu003e It's my in-law's neighborhood school, and I played college football with a couple of u003cemu003eTaftu003c/emu003e grads, so I'm always keeping a close eye on the u003cemu003eEaglesu003c/emu003e and am extremely excited that they have a high-powered underclassman prospect in 6', 210 lb. u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='800192' first='Diesel' last='McFadden']u003c/strongu003e, who also sports the coolest name in the 2026 class. At 6', 210 lbs., u003cstrongu003eMcFaddenu003c/strongu003e was a varsity starter last fall and is one of a select few in-state freshmen to earn some spring attention from the Illini, whom he visited on the 15th for an unofficial. He earned the attention as well, as u003cstrongu003eMcFaddenu003c/strongu003e shows promise as both a RB and LB, and brings a powerful lower body, burst, and physicality that helps him win 1-on-1 battles in a variety of settings. As a freshman, he was particularly apt as a goal line, redzone RB and as a tracking and tackling LB in run support, and I'm very excited to see how he expands his game as a sophomore. u003cstrongu003eDieselu003c/strongu003e brings the diesel!","_player_evaluations_17_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_18_player":["801702"],"_player_evaluations_18_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_18_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_18_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_18_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_18_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_18_evaluation":"A product of the fertile and talent-rich Frankfort area and Lincoln Way high school systems, 6'4, 215 lb. u003cemu003eLincoln Way-Eastu003c/emu003e DE u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='801702' first='Jacob' last='Alexander']u003c/strongu003e saw varsity, sophomore, and freshman action last fall and made his mark no matter the level of competition he was up against. Can bend at the top of the arch or beat OTs with power rushes, u003cstrongu003eAlexanderu003c/strongu003e is long, displays a non-stop motor, and is a good tackler who can pursue, cut off, and defend the edge of his defense against scrambling QBs and loose RBs alike. I also really enjoy his punch and how much separation he can create when he extends his arms after making initial contact. All the makings are there u003cstrongu003eAlexanderu003c/strongu003e, and you can bet your butt he's been working hard to avenge that 2022 8A state runner-up finish.","_player_evaluations_18_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_19_player":["537214"],"_player_evaluations_19_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_19_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_19_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_19_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_19_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_19_evaluation":"My choice for runner-up for the c/o 2026's coolest name, u003cemu003eLibertyvilleu003c/emu003e 6'2, 185 lb. WR u003cstrongu003e[player_tooltip player_id='537214' first='Blaise' last='LaVista']u003c/strongu003e is yet another talented freshman pass catcher from the Land of Lincoln 2026 rankings and brings a bigger body and three-sport background to the position. Rounding out the Top-20 and currently holding the title of WR4, u003cstrongu003eLaVistau003c/strongu003e split time between varsity and JV in 2022 and showed off impressive speed, contact balance, and a ton of juice after the catch. The u003cemu003eLibertyvilleu003c/emu003e freshman was dominant and a bully against non-varsity competition, and really flexed his muscle when the ball was in his hand, especially as a returner. Would-be tacklers wanted zero parts in taking him head on, and he showed he could easily run through or over tackle attempts while also possessing the juice to cut by, take the corner, and outpace pursuit angles in effortless fashion. He also shows off a little bit of shake at the top of the route and ball skills. The ability to make tacklers miss in a variety of different ways is my favorite part of his tape, and u003cstrongu003eLaVistau003c/strongu003e is an obvious playmaker who is only scratching the surface of what he can do on the gridiron. What a way to round out the Top-20!","_player_evaluations_19_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":20,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-644a02af63d90"} /-->