Key Observations From The 2026 QB Class

<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["275127"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67699c114f0b8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='275127' first='Derek' last='Zammit'] had an outstanding year in 2024, leading an explosive DePaul Catholic offense that averaged over 40 points per game and secured the Non-Public B state championship. Derek's growth this season has been evident, particularly in his pocket movement. He has shown significant improvement in navigating and maneuvering against pressure, consistently keeping plays alive, and avoiding sacks.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>One of the most noticeable changes in Derek's game this year has been his newfound athleticism. He's become a legitimate rushing threat for DePaul, and his ability to extend plays has become a consistent weapon. Whether scrambling for over 10 yards or executing designed runs, his decisiveness has been remarkable. Derek's ability to quickly move from his first to second read and take off when necessary has added another dynamic layer to his skill set.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Derek's development as a passer has been equally impressive. He's shown the ability to layer the ball effectively, especially over the middle of the field. His accuracy, particularly on the run, has improved, as he consistently hits open targets precisely.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Currently ranked as Prep Red Zone's top quarterback in the 2026 class, Derek has solidified his spot after this season. However, the upcoming season poses a significant challenge as he adjusts to the loss of key offensive weapons, including Des Jones (Ohio State), Elijah Burris (Notre Dame), and [player_tooltip player_id='396564' first='Nolan' last='James'] Jr. (Notre Dame). How Derek adapts to this change will determine his continued success. The question remains: what part of his game will he elevate to compensate for the departure of such elite talent?</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/17042224/67056910fa4a62c7df1b9c6b' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67699c114f285"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["595189"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67699c114f2d6"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='595189' first='Mason' last='Geis'] moved significantly this past season, transferring from Immaculata to St. Joe's Regional. While he began the year as a backup, Mason stepped into a starting role when quarterback [player_tooltip player_id='402227' first='Lamar' last='Best'] went down against Pope John, showing flashes of his potential.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>One of Mason's standout strengths is his ability to play on time and in rhythm. When executing plays as designed, he delivers the ball accurately, whether to targets over the middle or outside the numbers. He thrives in RPO concepts, excelling with quick, timing-based throws such as six-yard comebacks and slot slants. His ball placement is consistent and precise when Mason is squared up and has a clean platform. However, while he is generally accurate, there is room for improvement in consistently hitting open targets, particularly under duress.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A key area for Mason's development is his ability to create and play out of structure. Modern football demands quarterbacks who can extend plays when things break down, and Mason showed inconsistency in this regard against top competition. His pocket awareness needs improvement, especially in navigating pressure and avoiding sacks. Too often, Mason appears indecisive when his first and second reads are taken away, holding onto the ball for too long. Developing a quicker internal clock and decisiveness to either take off or get rid of the ball will be crucial for his growth.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>If Mason wants to become a complete quarterback, he needs to focus on enhancing his pre-snap reads and his ability to adjust to the pressure. He can mitigate some of his current game's limitations by becoming more lethal pre-snap, identifying blitzes, and making quicker decisions. While mobility may not be a defining trait, improved awareness and decision-making will allow him to operate effectively in a clean or chaotic pocket.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Physically, Mason has the tools to succeed. He can make all the necessary throws and deliver the ball where it needs to be. With an entire offseason to build on his experience, particularly in developing his pocket presence and pre-snap abilities, Mason has the potential to take his game to the next level in 2025.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/18109737/67478a7ec61a256d98475f0d' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67699cfd6c8e8"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["212405"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67699cfd6e35e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='212405' first='Tyler' last='Bell'] from St. Peter's Prep had a breakout year in 2024, finally playing an entirely healthy season. He threw for over 1,900 yards and 27 touchdowns. At 6'1” and 180 pounds, he's among the most well-rounded quarterbacks in the 2026 class. However, adding bulk to his frame would help, especially since he's had injury concerns.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As a passer, Tyler can access all levels of the field. His deep ball accuracy is outstanding, shown in his game against Moore Catholic, where he had four touchdowns of 20+ yards. He's deadly accurate when throwing deep. He's also a dual-threat, able to make plays with his legs when needed.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">One area for growth is his ability to stay focused when things aren't going well. Whether his team is up or down, Tyler needs to maintain focus, review his reads, and consistently hit targets. If he can fine-tune those details, he will have the tools to challenge for the top spot in the 2026 class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/18304438/673a2ed66b211801ac746745' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6769b3dd7c6af"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1105237"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6769b3dd7c73e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='1105237' first='Sayvien' last='Adams'] from Rancocas Valley had a jaw-dropping season in 2024. He threw for over 2,000 yards, rushed for more than 1,000, and became the fourth South Jersey player to accomplish this feat. At 5'11”, 170 pounds, his athleticism stands out immediately. Sayvien uses his speed and agility to create explosive plays in the open field, making him a true dual-threat quarterback.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As a passer, he's aggressive and unafraid to push the ball downfield. He targets seams, outside the numbers, and tight windows with confidence—perhaps more than any other quarterback in New Jersey. However, this aggressiveness sometimes backfires. In the championship game against Toms River North, his turnovers became costly.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">If Sayvien can limit turnovers and make smarter decisions, he has the potential to stay among New Jersey's top five quarterbacks next season. He's already earned an offer from Temple, and cleaning up his game could lead to more Power Five offers. With some refinement, he could be one of the best quarterbacks in the state in 2025.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:html --> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">2024 JR Season + Playoff Film! Didn&#039;t end the season the way we wanted, but I wouldn&#039;t have wanted to play with anyone else but these guys that made these highlights possible! <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachLucas74?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CoachLucas74</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachHarris56?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CoachHarris56</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JOHN_TIRICO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JOHN_TIRICO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/QBHitList?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@QBHitList</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sixstarfootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sixstarfootball</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Rivals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Rivals</a> <a href="https://t.co/Hx8XW3uRcn">https://t.co/Hx8XW3uRcn</a></p>&mdash; [player_tooltip player_id='1105237' first='Sayvien' last='Adams'] (@SayvienAdams) <a href="https://twitter.com/SayvienAdams/status/1861148906001777034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2024</a></blockquote> <!-- /wp:html --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["212393"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6769b3dd7c81e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='212393' first='Luke' last='Irwin'], a 6'1”, 175-pound junior quarterback from Pope John, had an intriguing 2024 season. After transferring from DePaul Catholic, he helped lead Pope John to the Non-Public B state championship game. Luke has all the physical traits to be a top quarterback in New Jersey. However, this season, he played a secondary role to standout running back&nbsp; [player_tooltip player_id='344220' first='Tylik' last='Hill'], who carried much of the offensive load.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2024 was a year of adjustment for Luke. In his first varsity season, he found his rhythm as a passer later in the year. A new system under a different offensive coordinator likely contributed to some challenges. At times, he appeared a bit gun-shy under pressure, which may have stemmed from adapting to varsity speed, building trust in his offensive line, and injury.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Despite these growing pains, the potential is evident. With a full year of varsity experience, Luke is poised to take a big leap in 2025. His stats don't fully reflect his skill set or what he's capable of. As the game slows down for him and he gains more confidence in the system, expect him to emerge as one of the top quarterbacks in the 2026 class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:html --> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/jmqFOt5FkQ">https://t.co/jmqFOt5FkQ</a><br><br>Junior Season Highlights<br>(2 games missed due to Injury)<br><br>Thanks to my coaches and teammates for a Great Season!<br>Seniors you will be missed!<br>Junior season goal- make it to the state finals ✅<br>Senior season goal - Win the whole thing...<br>Til Next Year!…</p>&mdash; [player_tooltip player_id='212393' first='Luke' last='Irwin'] (@luke_irwin18) <a href="https://twitter.com/luke_irwin18/status/1864523310421139522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2024</a></blockquote> <!-- /wp:html --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->