Stock Risers: Major 2026 DL Prospects Rise In Newest Rankings

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The state of Georgia is loaded on the defensive line in the 2026 class. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Who saw their ranking increase in the latest update? We've got the details...</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='682972' first='Jordan' last='Carter'] - Douglas County</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>An explosive defender with a high motor who plays with relentless effort, Carter was incredibly productive last fall as a sophomore where he made 84 tackles, 13 TFLs and 15 sacks. He lived in the backfield and attacked the quarterback on a consistent basis. He can beat tackles with speed, but he can also bend and get underneath bigger tackles as well. He's plenty strong and brings a physical 6-foot-3 225-pound frame. He's outstanding against the run who holds his own on the edge and forces backs back inside. He plays with good leverage and has a natural knack for finding the football and impacting the play. He plays with a lot of other talented defenders, but it's clear Carter is among the best on a very talented roster. He's got a giant offer list and has a good head on his shoulders. He's confident and it shows on the field. He got a boost up to the No. 8 spot overall in the state for the 2026 class. His production, size, potential, and production made it easy to move him inside of the top 10.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='681180' first='Xavier' last='Griffin'] - Gainesville</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>One of the top overall 6A defenders in the 2026 class, Griffinnow jumps into the top 10 in the latest rankings update, now coming in at No. 9 overall in his class. A long, athletic, promising EDGE defender who can get after the quarterback, Griffin is coming off a tremendous sophomore season where he made 52 tackles, 20 TFLs and nine sacks for a powerful Red Elephants team. His first step quickness off the snap is really impressive, so when you combine that with his lengthy frame and overall potential, it's easy to see why major programs like Georgia, Southern Cal, Ohio State, and many more have extended offers. He shows a great motor and can beat opposing tackles with his speed and raw strength. If he can continue to develop and expand his craft, Griffin has the potential to be an impactful pass-rusher at the next level who could turn into an every-down defender. He has a high ceiling overall and that's why he's seeing his stock rise in the 2026 rankings. He's one of the top overall defenders in the state and he's bound for a gigantic senior season this fall.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='908933' first='Ayden' last='Cain'] - Dutchtown</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A smart, instinctive lineman with an outstanding motor, Cain is a productive, versatile defender who can line up at multiple spots along the defensive line. He's coming off a big sophomore season for Dutchtown where he made 43 tackles, three sacks, six TFLs and 18 more QB pressures. He's quick for his size and closes quickly on the ball-carrier at 6-foot-2 250-pounds. He also knows how to deliver a strong hit when making a tackle. He can read screen passes when they come and plays bigger than his size. He does hold some D1 offers, but more should be coming his way down the road. He plays with good leverage, hand placement, and has impressive lower-body strength, allowing him to drive taller offensive linemen backwards. He also knows how to shed blocks and find the football. There's a lot to like about his game, and his stock is very much on the rise. Now, he's made a big move in the rankings, coming in at No. 30 overall in the latest update.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->