13 Prospects Primed To Make an Impact This Weekend
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As playoff season looms on the horizon, the stakes are getting higher, and the spotlight brighter. It’s not just about the big games; it’s about the players who step up when it counts the most. Among them, there’s a select…
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Continue ReadingAs playoff season looms on the horizon, the stakes are getting higher, and the spotlight brighter. It’s not just about the big games; it’s about the players who step up when it counts the most. Among them, there’s a select group that stands out — athletes primed to leave their mark on the gridiron. These are the 13 prospects you need to keep an eye on.
Liberty vs. Salpointe
Liberty’s quarterback, Navi Bruzon Navi Bruzon 5’11” | 180 lbs | QB Liberty | 2024 State AZ , is undeniably a standout this season. While leading his team to a MaxPreps top-25 national ranking, he’s impressively averaging 250 yards per game at a 72% completion rate. He’s doing so against top-tier secondaries. This isn’t just raw talent; Bruzon’s 15-to-2 touchdown-to-interception ratio reveals his astute football acumen. In the pocket, he’s a master of evasion, consistently sidestepping rushers while maintaining unwavering focus on his receivers. Not just a thrower, when Bruzon takes to the ground, he showcases agility and clever decision-making, rarely taking a big hit but still getting the gritty yards his team needs him to. His remarkable skill set and maturity on the field make him a player to watch this week.
Highlights
Hudson Dunn Hudson Dunn 6’1″ | 205 lbs | LB Liberty | 2026 State AZ , the sophomore linebacker for Liberty, is turning heads and for all the right reasons. With an impressive 7 sacks already this season against formidable offensive lines, his speed on the field is undeniable. Pair that with a solid build and you have a true defensive powerhouse. He leaves offensive linemen grappling and quarterbacks with little escape. While he leans on his elite speed now, refining some technical skills will only make him even more dominant. You certainly can’t overlook his instincts in the run game. Hudson charges fearlessly, filling gaps and delivering hefty blows to opposing running backs. In short, Hudson is a defensive prodigy on the rise.
Elijah Rushing Elijah Rushing 6’6″ | 255 lbs | DL Salpointe Catholic | 2024 State AZ of Salpointe is not just a big name in Arizona; he’s among the top football recruits nationwide. After his recent decommitment from the University of Arizona, the recruitment race has reignited, and he’s more determined than ever to showcase his prowess. Standing tall at 6’5″ and weighing 250lbs, Elijah is a powerhouse on the defensive end, boasting 9 sacks this season. But he’s more than just raw strength. His bull rush can topple even the most formidable linemen. Blessed with extremely long arms, he skillfully creates separation from blockers, and can easily disengage to hunt down the quarterback. His repertoire of moves is impressive, particularly a dip move that doesn’t come out all that often, but when it does, it showcases his quickness and agility. Running right past the lineman, quickly dipping his shoulder, getting as low as the lineman’s waist sometimes, and sliding underneath the block. Often leaving him with a clean shot to the QB. Simply put, Elijah is a harmonious blend of physical might and refined technique, making him an elite prospect to watch.
Highlights
Highland vs. Williams Field
Greg Toler Greg Toler 5’9″ | 180 lbs | WR Highland | 2025 State AZ of Highland stands out as a genuine speedster on the football field. This wide receiver’s astounding quickness and top-tier speed have become his hallmark, consistently outpacing defenses and blazing toward the end zone. Fans can expect more electric displays from him tonight. What’s intriguing is how his elite footwork doesn’t just manifest in straight-line speed. He has an uncanny ability to dart in and out of cuts, gaining immediate separation from defenders, and then further extending that gap with an extra burst. Sometimes, his incredible pace can slightly offset his ball tracking and hand positioning, but with continued practice, this minor kink will likely be ironed out. He’s also great at using his speed to leverage his body positioning against defensive backs to craft that perfect window for his quarterback to find him. Greg Toler Greg Toler 5’9″ | 180 lbs | WR Highland | 2025 State AZ is every defense’s nightmare—a receiver who can change the game in a split second.
Kody Cullimore from Highland isn’t just a player; he’s an entire toolkit. Labeling him a ‘utility player’ might be an understatement. Whether it’s running the ball, catching it, launching it downfield, returning kicks, shutting down receivers, or delivering crushing hits, Kody does it all. Offensively, his route running—both from the line of scrimmage and the backfield—is textbook. He showcases a profound understanding of the game, consistently exploiting defensive vulnerabilities. When in charge of the wildcat formation, he’s a dual threat, has shown that he can throw a pass nearly as well as he can break away with a long run. Switch to defense, and Kody transforms into a dynamo. His speed combined with sharp instincts makes him a heat-seeking missile to the ballcarrier; if you’re scanning a play’s highlights, chances are he’s right in the mix. Despite often facing larger opponents, he doesn’t shy away, confronting running backs head-on with tenacity. His agility and football intelligence make him equally formidable in coverage. In the world of football, players like Kody, who seamlessly transcend roles with such ease, are a rare gem.
Dylan Lee of Williams Field is poetry in motion on the football field. As a running back, his knack for slicing through defenses with razor-sharp cuts is nothing short of mesmerizing. Watching him casually sidestep multiple tacklers feels almost cinematic; his fluidity makes dodging opponents appear effortless. Add that to his elite lateral quickness, and it often leaves defenders grasping at thin air. Lee’s acceleration is another thing of beauty; he reaches top speed in a blink, displaying explosive burst right off the mark. Despite his evasive style, he doesn’t lack the grit to bulldoze through opponents if need be. Yet, you’ll rarely ever find him cornered, even amidst the hustle and bustle of the trenches, he’ll go into what looks to be a sure tackle with 5 defenders and pop out the other side at full speed. In the blocking realm, Dylan exhibits keen awareness, accurately identifying and targeting the right opponent. While there’s room for him to stay engaged a tad longer before branching off for a route, it’s hard to fault the strategy. After all, once the ball’s in his grip, magic ensues.
Adrian Dahlene Adrian Dahlene 6’2″ | 215 lbs | LB Williams Field | 2025 State AZ , the linebacker out of Williams Field, has an uncanny knack for reading the game. He’s spot-on when it comes to anticipating the quarterback’s moves, shutting down potential scrambles before they break out. When facing the run, his quick reactions are impressive; he tracks the offense’s motion seamlessly and zeroes in on the ball-carrier. When the play heads outside, Adrian’s got the speed to chase down runners. His instincts are top-notch, always following a “see ball-get ball” mentality. He’s adept at using his hands to fend off blockers, and while there are moments he’s slightly delayed in zone coverage, he compensates with his speed to recover quickly. Even with his build, he’s solid in man coverage. But don’t mistake his agility for a lack of power; Adrian is both strong and determined, capable of bulldozing even sizable offensive linemen when the situation demands.
Highlights
Higley vs. Notre Dame Prep
Luke Haugo Luke Haugo 6’5″ | 210 lbs | QB Higley | 2025 State AZ , Higley’s quarterback, is a study in pocket presence and precision. He’s consistently stepping confidently into the pocket, all while maintaining a keen focus downfield. This unflinching gaze and patience allows him to read the evolving play, giving his receivers the extra seconds they need to find an opening. Haugo’s size and build are prototypical for a QB, but he pairs that with surprising agility. Those nimble feet are as much a weapon as his arm, allowing him to sidestep pressure and keep plays alive. When it comes to throwing, his arm strength is evident, and what’s more impressive is how he maintains accuracy and touch even on the toughest throws. Haugo is the kind of quarterback that can meticulously pick apart a defense, play by play, making him a key player to watch every game.
Highlights
Daxen Hall, Higley’s running back, is nothing short of sensational. From the moment he takes possession out of the backfield, he’s a threat, with a burst of speed and agility that leaves defenders in his dust. His elusiveness in the open field is a sight to behold, making him a constant challenge to tackle. And for someone not towering over the rest, his resilience and toughness are astounding. Drawing comparisons to the likes of Christian McCaffrey, Hall demonstrates a keen sense of vision and sharp, decisive cuts. even more impressive from a running back, his hands are as reliable as they come. Whether he’s taking a handoff or catching a pass, once that ball is secure, he becomes an immediate threat to take it the distance. To put it simply, Hall is a defense’s worst nightmare—a genuine game-changer. Opposing teams might scheme up intricate plans to contain him, but even the best plans will need some luck to stop his unbelievable talent.
Boston Tilton Boston Tilton 6'1" | 245 lbs | LB Higley | 2025 State AZ
Boston Tilton Boston Tilton 6'1" | 245 lbs | LB Higley | 2025 State AZ
Boston Tilton Boston Tilton 6’1″ | 245 lbs | LB Higley | 2025 State AZ , Higley’s standout linebacker, is a force to be reckoned with on the field. His stats alone – 14 tackles for loss, 7 sacks, 5 QB hurries, and a whopping 49 total tackles – paint a picture of sheer dominance. Yet, it’s the game tape that truly showcases just how good he is. Tilton possesses a dynamism that’s underscored by his impressive speed. Physically imposing, his strong arms are active tools of disruption, often causing offensive linemen a world of trouble as they fail to get a firm grip on him. His presence is almost magnetic as he powers through the O-line, reading the run quickly and attacking. Tilton’s initial step post-snap is lightning-quick, honed to perfection, and his lateral quickness is remarkable for a player of his build. Beyond the raw athleticism, it’s his strategic play that elevates him. He plays the game with an integrity that’s why he’s not easily fooled, showing discipline against misdirection plays and consistently showcasing his high football IQ.
Noah Trigueros Noah Trigueros 6’2″ | 175 lbs | QB Notre Dame Prep | 2024 State AZ of Notre Dame Prep is an elite quarterback who consistently showcases a mix of intelligence and skill. Boasting a 69% completion rate, averaging 240 yards per game, and an impressive 17 touchdowns to only 2 interceptions, his stats speak for themselves. Beyond his passing, Trigueros is a gritty competitor, often evading first tackles due to his solid build and brute strength. His arm strength is impressive, especially when he’s launching on the run, effortlessly blending power with precision. He moves with a finesse in the pocket, though occasionally showing eagerness to break out and utilize his notable speed. Defenders are often left second-guessing when he takes the middle route, as his combination of size and pace becomes an intimidating challenge. It’s this adaptability and raw talent that make him a constant scoring threat, capable of turning any snap into a highlight play.
Highlights
Cooper Perry Cooper Perry 6’2″ | 185 lbs | WR Notre Dame | 2025 State AZ of Notre Dame Prep stands out as a wide receiver. His hands are as reliable as they come, and combined with his adept route running and blistering speed, he’s a defender’s nightmare. What’s particularly striking about Perry is his innate ability to adjust to the ball mid-flight. He’s always angling himself optimally to ensure he’s in the best position to make the catch. His double moves are a masterclass in deception; he only needs the tiniest misstep from a defender to capitalize and gain huge separation. Even if a defender manages to stick with him, Perry’s body positioning ensures he has the advantage, effectively blocking out any chance at an interception. Factor in his meticulous footwork, and you have a wide receiver who’s consistently a step ahead of the competition.