Rising Stars in the Lone Star State

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Take a look at a quartet of players to take notice of as we head into the spring and summer camp season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='766272' first='Jeremy' last='Bluford'] | 2027 | Running Back | Center</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='766272' first='Jeremy' last='Bluford'], a 6-foot, 175-pound running back, is a dynamic and instinctive player who embodies the qualities of an alpha at the running back position. His relentless pursuit upfield and ability to fight through contact make him a dependable option for any offense. Bluford's gap-splitting speed, combined with his impressive stop-and-go hesitations and deadly jab steps, showcase his natural running instincts that are difficult to teach.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In the 2024-2025 season, Bluford amassed 1,237 rushing yards over 10 games, averaging 123.7 yards per game, and scored 14 touchdowns, highlighting his significant contribution to the team's offense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='559740' first='Liam' last='Madkins'] | 2027 | Running Back | Cyprus Falls</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p> [player_tooltip player_id='559740' first='Liam' last='Madkins'], a 5-foot-9, 170-pound running back, is a dynamic player known for his impressive speed and agility. With a reported 40-yard dash time of 4.4 seconds, Madkins exhibits exceptional acceleration, making him a significant mismatch for linebackers in man coverage situations. His quick burst to the second level, combined with remarkable footwork and elusiveness in one-on-one scenarios, allows him to create substantial yardage after initial contact. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Madkins maintains excellent body control and balance, enabling him to stay upright and continue gaining yards even when faced with weak tackling attempts. His intuitive ability to make defenders miss, coupled with his rapid acceleration to top speed, underscores his potential as both a slot receiver and running back, offering versatility to his team's offensive schemes.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1548582' first='Divine' last='Umeh'] | 2028 | ATH | Newman International Academy</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1548582' first='Divine' last='Umeh'], a 6-foot, 160-pound athlete, is a versatile player excelling on both sides of the ball. As a wide receiver, he demonstrates exceptional concentration and reliable hands, consistently securing contested catches and executing impressive one-handed grabs. His agility and route-running skills make him a formidable matchup against nickelbacks and linebackers when positioned in the slot.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Defensively, Umeh's athleticism and length are significant assets. His quick reactions and strong backpedal enable him to effectively mirror receivers' routes, while his ability to anticipate and jump on pass patterns disrupts opposing offenses. His physical attributes and football IQ suggest a high ceiling for development in both offensive and defensive roles.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1559773' first='Cullen' last='Thompson'] | 2026 | Defensive End | Grand Oaks</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1559773' first='Cullen' last='Thompson'] (6-4, 210) is an absolute animal on the field, boasting elite athleticism that sets him apart as one of the most talented players in recent memory. With a blazing 4.48 40-yard dash, his quickness off the snap and explosive pad level make him a nightmare for opposing offenses.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Thompson is borderline unblockable without a double-team, showcasing incredible versatility in attacking both the outside shoulder of offensive tackles and shooting through interior gaps. His length and strength make him highly effective at disrupting plays in the backfield, whether by slowing down RBs or pressuring the QB.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->