#TN2026 Athletes to Watch in Week 3
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After an action-packed week two of high school football action in the Volunteer State, it’s time to highlight some talented playmakers that showcased their skillset on the field. After evaluating some high-level senior linebackers, it’s time to break down some…
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Continue ReadingAfter an action-packed week two of high school football action in the Volunteer State, it’s time to highlight some talented playmakers that showcased their skillset on the field. After evaluating some high-level senior linebackers, it’s time to break down some intriguing sophomore athletes that should be worth keeping an eye on in week three and beyond. Without any further ado, here’s my list of 2026 athletes in Tennessee to watch for this upcoming Friday.
At the top of my list of notable standouts is Shavar Young, Jr Shavar Young, Jr 6'0" | 170 lbs | ATH Knox. Webb | 2026 State TN ., a 6-foot-0, 165-pound athlete at Brentwood Academy that proved himself as an efficient offensive playmaker for the Eagles in the close 21-18 loss to Brentwood High School in week two. In addition to hauling in an impressive touchdown pass against the Bruins last Friday, Young stands out due to his footwork and breakaway speed, proving he can muscle and outrun the defense to get open for his quarterback and haul in deep shots down the field.
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I am additionally impressed with Eli Bell Eli Bell 5'11" | 170 lbs | ATH Forrest | 2026 TN , a 5-foot-11, 160-pound athlete at Forrest High School that picked up valuable minutes for the Rockets in the close 15-14 victory over Cornerstone in week two of play. Bell caught my attention with a strong kickoff return where he blasted past the defense for a solid gain before being dragged to the ground. I like Bell’s electric playstyle, utilizing bursts of speed as well as his durable edge to outlast defensive pressure and make it into the open field.
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Claiming the number three spot on my list is Kolby Barrett Kolby Barrett 6'2" | 190 lbs | DB Maryville | 2026 State TN , a 6-foot-1, 190-pound athlete that proved he was impactful on the field in week two as the Tornadoes escaped Bearden by a final score of 17-13. I like Barrett’s defensive execution and ability to get past the offensive line to make stops. I’m additionally fond of Barrett’s awareness and composure in the backfield as a defensive back, proving his ability to quickly adapt and be disruptive. Barrett’s physicality and ability to exert his strength to push defenders out of position and pick off the quarterback is also impressive.
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Another high-level player to keep an eye on is LeKhy Thompkins LeKhy Thompkins 6'2" | 205 lbs | ATH Trinity Christian Academy | 2026 State TN , a 6-foot-2, 205-pound athlete at Trinity Christian Academy that made an impact for the Lions in their 27-20 victory over Chester County in week two. What impresses me most about Thompkins is his explosiveness and durability in the pocket, proving he can pick up a solid gain of yards before being dropped by the defense. I’m additionally fond of Thompkins due to his footwork, breakaway speed and ability to maintain control despite heavy defensive pressure.
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Coming in at number five on my list of playmakers is Kelan Anderson Kelan Anderson 5'7" | 160 lbs | ATH Westlake | 2026 TN , a 5-foot-7, 160-pound athlete at East Nashville Magnet High School that made his presence known in week two of the season, helping the Eagles to a 47-26 win over Kenwood. In addition to his strength and solid execution off the snap, what makes Anderson a playmaker is balance and ability to absorb physicality from the defense, blasting into the open field as well as the endzone with his quickness and ability to maneuver the pocket.