Prep Redzone’s 2023 Preseason All-State Series (7A First-Team)

We are finishing up our all-state picks for the 7A classification today! Continuing later this week, we will transition into the 6A classification as we make our way through the entire state to recognize the players who have the talents to potentially see themselves as an all-state playmaker after the 2023 season. You can check out the first two editions of this series below!   <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/07/prep-redzones-2023-preseason-all-state-series-7a-second-team/">Prep Redzone's 2023 Preseason All-State Series (7A Second-Team)</a>   <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/07/prep-redzones-2023-preseason-all-state-series-7a-third-team/">Prep Redzone's 2023 Preseason All-State Series (7A Third-Team)</a>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Quarterback</h2>   [player_tooltip player_id='149580' first='Drake' last='Lindsey'] | Fayetteville   One of the top recruits in all of Arkansas, [player_tooltip player_id='149580' first='Drake' last='Lindsey'] will be taking snaps in the Big 10 conference next year as a Minnesota Golden Gopher. He will look to lead Fayetteville back to Little Rock to lock down another state title for a storied Fayetteville program.   "The Fayetteville signal caller had a strong 2022 season and is looking to have an even more impressive 2023 football season. Lindsey has a strong arm and is not afraid to make deep throws. He has an accurate arm that can fit the ball into some tight windows. Lindsey is the type of quarterback that locks in on just one receiver. He makes good decisions with the football and will not force it into a covered receiver. Lindsey committed to the Minnesota Golden Gophers earlier in the summer and has the potential for a big 2023 season." <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/07/prep-redzone-arkansas-july-2024-ranking-risers/">Prep Redzone Arkansas July 2024 Ranking Risers</a>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Running Back</h2>   [player_tooltip player_id='392403' first='Jabron' last='Lewis'] | Little Rock Southwest   In what is shaping up to be an impressive squad for Little Rock Southwest, [player_tooltip player_id='392403' first='Jabron' last='Lewis'] will be heading the Gryphon's run-based offensive approach. Another 1,000-yard, perhaps 1,500+-yard season seems to be in store for the talented runner.   "With an impressive 1,000-yard junior season, [player_tooltip player_id='392403' first='Jabron' last='Lewis'] has already received an offer from UT-Martin and has attended camps at Arkansas State, Ole Miss, and Mississippi State. He has shown great potential at each of these camps, and it's clear that he has the talent to excel at the next level. At 6-1 and 200 pounds, Lewis has the size and strength to overpower missed tacklers and the speed to take advantage of weak defenses. His relentless running style makes him a force to be reckoned with on the inside of the formation, and he often picks up large chunks of yardage even after initial contact." <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/07/2024s-raising-their-platform-entering-senior-year/">2024's Raising Their Platform Entering Senior Year</a>   [player_tooltip player_id='257682' first='Isaac' last='Gregory'] | Fort Smith Southside   One of the most versatile running backs in the state of Arkansas, [player_tooltip player_id='257682' first='Isaac' last='Gregory'] is locked and loaded for a stat-filled senior season that will impress collegiate scouts who are already feeding offers Gregory's way.   "[player_tooltip player_id='257682' first='Isaac' last='Gregory']<a href="https://prepredzone.com/player/isaac-gregory/"></a> is the type of running back that can punish opposing defenses with his speed. He has the talent to make a move and be into the open field extremely quickly. Gregory is a running back that can cut the run to the outside. The Southside coaching staff does a great job of getting him involved in the passing game. Gregory has built momentum heading into the 2023 season I expect a big one from the talented Southside running back." <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/07/prep-redzone-arkansas-july-2024-ranking-risers/">Prep Redzone Arkansas July 2024 Ranking Risers</a>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wide Receiver</h2>   [player_tooltip player_id='320933' first='CJ' last='Brown'] | Bentonville   [player_tooltip player_id='320933' first='CJ' last='Brown'], an immensely talented wideout, has enjoyed a successful summer as he has committed to an offer from the Arkansas Razorbacks in the fall. Brown is an alpha who demands the full attention of the defensive backfield.   "The recruiting competition for the talented Bentonville wide receiver has been intense. We have seen numerous teams that need Brown's ability to stretch the field deep. [player_tooltip player_id='320933' first='CJ' last='Brown']<a href="https://prepredzone.com/player/cj-brown-3/"></a> is a wide receiver that can carve you up with his speed and route running. Earlier in the week, Brown gave the Arkansas Razorbacks some good news. Brown placed his commitment with the Razorbacks on Thursday of this week. He will give Arkansas a wide receiver that can stretch the field and a player that can excel in the SEC ranks. Congratulations go out to Brown on his commitment." <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/06/recruiting-news-and-notes-6-17-23/">Recruiting News and Notes 6-17-23</a>   [player_tooltip player_id='180373' first='Jace' last='White'] | North Little Rock   One of the most underrated wideouts in the state, [player_tooltip player_id='180373' first='Jace' last='White'] is ready to have a breakout campaign. He possesses D-1 talent and with a quarterback change, he will look to take advantage with a 1,000+ yard season for the Charging Wildcats.   "[player_tooltip player_id='180373' first='Jace' last='White'] (6-3, 185) is pushing for the best receiver in the state this fall, he has an unlimited amount of talent and not a flaw found in his game, White is borderline impossible to keep covered. Already offered by UT-Martin, White has also recently enjoyed visits on the west coast with Cal, Stanford, San Diego State, Oregon, and Oregon State, and also participated in the camp SMU recently hosted in Dallas. From his smooth route running to his developed fundamentally sound blocking skills, White is a disciplined player who understands all parts of the game and the role he plays on every snap. White is well on his way to being the next Power 5 talent to come out of central Arkansas." <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/07/2025-pass-catchers-eyeing-breakout-campaigns/">2025 Pass Catchers Eyeing Breakout Campaigns</a>   [player_tooltip player_id='248892' first='Mabry' last='Verser'] | Rogers   Another star wide out in a stout Rogers receiver room, [player_tooltip player_id='248892' first='Mabry' last='Verser'] is going to be a major factor if the Mounties look to make noise in the 7A in 2023. Verser is an incredible 50/50 play-maker, with his size and speed he creates advantageous mismatches on the outside part of the field.   "[player_tooltip player_id='248892' first='Mabry' last='Verser'] has kept the momentum from a strong 2022 football season into the summer. The Rogers wide receiver does an excellent job of making the tough reception. He uses his athletic ability to create separation from opposing defensive backs. Verser does a good job of high pointing the football and he uses that ability well in the red zone. The Rogers Mounties have the potential to make a playoff run this upcoming season. Verser should have a great season." <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/07/7-on-7-and-camp-standouts-for-the-week/">7-on-7 and Camp Standouts for the Week</a>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Offensive Line</h2>   [player_tooltip player_id='355415' first='Kobe' last='Branham'] | Fort Smith Southside   In the spring, Prep Network's Tom Tabler provided an update on [player_tooltip player_id='355415' first='Kobe' last='Branham']'s recruiting journey. Branham eventually provided a verbal commitment to the Arkansas Razorbacks in June.   "Over the past few months, [player_tooltip player_id='355415' first='Kobe' last='Branham']<a href="https://prepredzone.com/player/kobe-branham/"></a> ‘s recruiting has exploded. Numerous SEC schools including Ole Miss, Arkansas, and Texas A&M are competing heavily for his services. It will be a busy weekend for the talented Fort Smith Southside offensive lineman. Branham will be visiting the Ole Miss Rebels this upcoming weekend. Branham is close to narrowing down the list of schools he is wanting to attend. He is a prospect to watch this upcoming season." <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/04/college-visits-to-watch-4-15-23/">College visits to Watch 4-15-23</a>   [player_tooltip player_id='149537' first='Lane' last='Jeffcoat'] | Bentonville West   [player_tooltip player_id='149537' first='Lane' last='Jeffcoat'], another division one talent in northwest Arkansas, generated an impression with Tom Tabler in early June. Since Tabler's article release Jeffcoat has committed to the Rice Owls.   "At the SMU Camp, [player_tooltip player_id='149537' first='Lane' last='Jeffcoat']<a href="https://prepredzone.com/player/lane-jeffcoat/"></a> did an excellent job of opening plenty of eyes. Jeffcoat was impressive in drills at the camp. He has had a strong offseason and it comes as no surprise to me that he performed well in front of numerous college coaches. Jeffcoat has good power and impressive speed. However, his work ethic and drive are going to be major attributes at the next level. The motor is always running for the talented Bentonville West offensive lineman." <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/06/saturday-edition-prospects-putting-in-the-work-6-3-23/">Saturday Edition: Prospects Putting in the Work 6-3-23</a>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Defensive Line</h2>   [player_tooltip player_id='413517' first='Anthony' last='Kennedy Jr.'] | Little Rock Southwest   The talent is evident for Little Rock Southwest to shock the state and make some major noise later this season with Anthony Kennedy Jr being a major factor. With an offer from Missouri, reported below by Tom Tabler, Kennedy has proven he is a high-end caliber talent and will provide a major presence on the line of scrimmage and make it difficult for offenses to move the ball easily.   "The class of 2026 is starting to take shape in the state of Arkansas, and it is not disappointing a bit. Kennedy Jr. does an excellent job of defeating blocks and getting into the opposing offensive backfield. He is a linebacker that is working on his game continuously. Kennedy Jr. is a linebacker that has a high ceiling, and I would expect a strong 2023 season from the Little Rock Southwest linebacker. Earlier in the week, Kennedy Jr. earned a scholarship offer from Missouri. He has the potential to do some big things on Saturdays in the future." <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/05/recruiting-news-and-notes-5-27-23/">Recruiting News and Notes 5-27-23</a>   [player_tooltip player_id='257684' first='John' last='Parkinson'] | Fort Smith Southside   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Linebacker</h2>   [player_tooltip player_id='352887' first='Derrick' last='Murdock'] | Little Rock Southwest   Arguably one of the most underrated players in the Natural State resides on the Little Rock Southwest roster. Murdock is ready to unleash a massive season in 2023 and open eyes around the nation.   "[player_tooltip player_id='352887' first='Derrick' last='Murdock'] is a linebacker that terrorizes opposing quarterbacks. Murdock explodes into the opposing offensive backfield, and he forces the offensive line to adjust to him. Last season, Murdock led the state in quarterback sacks. I expect similar results this upcoming season for the talented Southwest linebacker. He has flown under the radar, but he is a linebacker with the potential to play on Saturdays in the future." <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/07/july-update-2024-linebackers-to-watch-in-2023/">July Update 2024 Linebackers to Watch in 2023</a>   [player_tooltip player_id='260882' first='Noah' last='Janski'] | Fayetteville   [player_tooltip player_id='260882' first='Noah' last='Janski'] was on Prep Redzone's radar in February as a player to watch this season and the summer season has only reinforced the thought of Janski being a player to make major impacts this upcoming season.   "Every season, the Fayetteville Bulldogs always have a linebacker that opens eyes. [player_tooltip player_id='260882' first='Noah' last='Janski'] has the potential to cause plenty of problems for the opposing quarterbacks this upcoming season. Janski has impressive speed and the ability to explode into the offensive backfield. He does a good job of fending off blocks. Janski is tenacious and does not give up on a play. The Bulldogs always have a scrappy defense that will force turnovers and I expect Janski to be a big part of that this upcoming season." <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/02/2024-disruptive-linebackers-to-watch/">2024 Disruptive Linebackers to Watch</a>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Defensive Back</h2>   [player_tooltip player_id='337883' first='Drake' last='Fowler'] | Bryant   The Bryant Hornets boast the best defensive backfield in the state with multiple D-1 talents, including [player_tooltip player_id='337883' first='Drake' last='Fowler'], who will be playing for Air Force following his high school career.   "The future Air Force Falcon is a safety that is all over the field for the Bryant Hornets. He does a great job of playing the ball while it is in the air. Fowler does an impressive job of separating the ball from the ball carrier as well. He has the soft hands needed to pick off passes and take them back in the opposite direction. Bryant is defending a state championship and both Fowler and Bryant should have a big 2023 football season." <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/06/defensive-backs-to-watch-in-2023/">Defensive Backs to Watch in 2023</a>   [player_tooltip player_id='752271' first='Bryson' last='Adamoh'] | Bryant   Even though [player_tooltip player_id='752271' first='Bryson' last='Adamoh'] is a UNLV commit, I feel it is still fair to say he is slightly underrated considering the exceptional talents he has playing the cornerback position in shutdown fashion.   "[player_tooltip player_id='752271' first='Bryson' last='Adamoh'] ready for a breakout season in the Bryant secondary this season. He is a cornerback that does not get intimated by any receiver that he is covering. Adamoh does a great job of getting physical with opposing wide receivers. He has the speed to cause plenty of problems for opposing wide receivers. Adamoh has perhaps flown a bit under the radar. However, that will change this upcoming season with the Hornets." <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/07/prep-redzone-arkansas-july-2024-new-additions/">Prep Redzone Arkansas July 2024 New Additions</a>   [player_tooltip player_id='314061' first='Brenden' last='Bennett'] | Bryant   Another star player in the Bryant defensive backfield, [player_tooltip player_id='314061' first='Brenden' last='Bennett'], recently added another scholarship offer to his list, this one from UT-Martin.   "[player_tooltip player_id='314061' first='Brenden' last='Bennett'] is a versatile defensive back that shifts from cornerback to safety with impressive effectiveness. Bennett uses his hands well to bump opposing wide receivers off of the pass patterns that are being run. He has the speed to contend with quick receivers and is physical enough to cause the receivers problems. The talented Bryant defensive back earned a scholarship offer from Arkansas-Pine Bluff earlier in the week." <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2023/07/recruiting-news-and-notes-7-2-23/">Recruiting News and Notes 7-2-23</a>   [player_tooltip player_id='176357' first='Keytrone' last='Green'] | North Little Rock   "[player_tooltip player_id='176357' first='Keytrone' last='Green']<a href="https://prepredzone.com/player/keytrone-green/"></a> is a cornerback that is not afraid to get physical with opposing wide receivers. He uses his hands well to jam opposing wide receivers at the line of scrimmage. Green tracks the ball well in the air and does an impressive job of picking off passes. He is a playmaker in the secondary. Green has the potential to have a strong season this season and continue to open plenty of eyes in the process."

We are finishing up our all-state picks for the 7A classification today! Continuing later this week, we will transition into the 6A classification as we make our way through the entire state to recognize the players who have the talents to potentially see themselves as an all-state playmaker after the 2023 season. You can check out the first two editions of this series below!