Class A-Reg. 1: Best Returning Players
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After an action-packed season of high school football action in the Volunteer State, it’s time to reflect on some of last season’s top performers, focusing on some of the top standouts that are being primed to return this upcoming fall.…
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Continue ReadingAfter an action-packed season of high school football action in the Volunteer State, it’s time to reflect on some of last season’s top performers, focusing on some of the top standouts that are being primed to return this upcoming fall. Without any further ado, here’s my list of the best returning players in Class A Region 1.
In the first place spot on my list is Tegan Avera Tegan Avera 5’10” | 175 lbs | RB Sevier Co. | 2025 State TN , a running back at Cosby High School. In addition to quick execution, Avera impresses with his ability to maneuver the pocket, utilizing his footwork and durable edge to juke out the defense and reach the open field. I also like Avera’s ability to break free of the defense from along the edge, using his explosiveness to take it all the way to the house.
Highlights
I am additionally impressed with Bryson Ballard Bryson Ballard 6’3″ | 175 lbs | DB Jellico | 2026 TN , a defensive back at Jellico High School. What makes Ballard so efficient defensively is his ability to read the pass and jump in front of the ball for the interception. Ballard also proved he can read the quick handoff and shut down the ground game in the pocket. I also like how Ballard can predict the short pass and elevate off the ground to pick off the short pass.
Highlights
Claiming the number three spot on my list is Yeshua Vaught Yeshua Vaught 5’10” | 190 lbs | RB North Greene | 2025 TN , a running back at North Greene High School. What stands out about Vaught is his ability to pick up speed off the snap and blast through the defense in the pocket. I also like Vaught’s shiftiness and durability on the run, utilizing his strong footwork and breakaway speed to quickly juke out defenders and break tackles on his way to the endzone.
Brynin Repass
Brynin Repass
Another skilled prospect to keep an eye on is Brynin Repass, an athlete at Unaka High School. Repass makes a considerable difference offensively with his ability to juke out the defense and pick up speed in the pocket to be untouchable on his way to the backfield. Repass also impresses with his catching ability, showing off his ability to haul in the short pass when his quarterback is under pressure.
Kian Barton
Kian Barton
Coming in at number five on my list is Kian Barton, an athlete at Unaka High School. What makes Barton a gamechanger is his quick execution as well as his ability to take advantage of openings in the pocket. I also like how Barton can use bursts of speed to barrel into enemy territory. On the other side, Barton proved he can make commanding stops in the pocket and force the occasional loose ball.
Camden Peppers
Camden Peppers
Also worth mentioning is Camden Peppers, a quarterback at Cloudland High School. Peppers impresses with his composure in the pocket and his ability to maneuver the field to find open receivers. I also like Peppers due to his arm strength and accuracy in the air, showing off his ability to complete the deep pass and put his team in prime scoring position. Peppers can also juke out the defense with his footwork.