“Climbing High: 2026 Athletes with Big Recruiting News”

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Class of 2026 is quickly heating up on the recruiting trail, with a wave of fast-rising prospects making their mark and earning new offers from top programs across the country. [player_tooltip player_id='212311' first='Tyler' last='Atkinson'] of Grayson High School, [player_tooltip player_id='1323163' first='Chauncey' last='Davis Jr'] of North Gwinnett High School, [player_tooltip player_id='682993' first='Jonathan' last='Stafford Jr.'] of Grayson High School, [player_tooltip player_id='418493' first='Peyton' last='Zachary'] of Carrollton High School and [player_tooltip player_id='212297' first='Deuce' last='Geralds II'] of Collins Hill High School. These athletes have showcased their elite skills, versatility, and undeniable potential, catching the attention of college coaches looking to secure the next generation of talent. Whether it's standout performances on Friday nights, dominating at camps, or impressive highlight reels, these rising stars are proving why they deserve a spot on every recruiter's radar. Here's a closer look at the 2026 prospects who are climbing the ranks and turning heads this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["212311"],"_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-6791c3d9d1384"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">5-star [player_tooltip player_id='212311' first='Tyler' last='Atkinson'] standing at an imposing 6'3” is the epitome of a dominant linebacker and a generational talent in the Class of 2026. A 2024 National Player of the Year as a junior, he's already cemented his legacy with a state championship and recognition as the No. 1 linebacker in his class. Currently with 50 offers in hand including schools such as University of Alabama, University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Ohio State and University of Oregon just to name a few. Tyler's a versatile and explosive athlete, Tyler has earned prestigious accolades as an Under Armour All-American, Navy All-American, Adidas athlete, and Xenith athlete, showcasing his dominance on every platform. His combination of size, strength, football IQ, and leadership sets him apart as a once-in-a-lifetime talent destined to shine at the next level. He's currently set to make his first visit to Oregon this weekend he tells Rivalsdotcom. It's safe to say, whoever lands this once-in-a-lifetime generational talent he's primed to be a starter on day one.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1323163"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":["override_image"],"_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_player_featured_image":1607816,"_player_evaluations_0_player_featured_image":"field_62f141137ead9","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-6791c3d9d1400"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">3-star [player_tooltip player_id='1323163' first='Chauncey' last='Davis Jr'] is a standout defensive back, he's seen his recruiting skyrocket in the past week, earning offers from Purdue University, the University of Cincinnati, and Georgia State University in just the last five days. Coming off an impressive 12-1 season, he played a pivotal role in his team's deep playoff run with his ability to lock down receivers, create turnovers, and deliver game-changing plays. With his elite combination of speed, football IQ, and physicality, Chauncey is poised for another dominant season as he looks to lead his team back to championship contention while continuing to attract attention from top programs. Chauncey currently holds 15 offers from major Power 5 programs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["682993"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":["override_image"],"_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_player_featured_image":1607827,"_player_evaluations_0_player_featured_image":"field_62f141137ead9","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-6791c3d9d145c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">3-star [player_tooltip player_id='283860' first='Jonathan' last='Stafford'] is a dynamic wide receiver for Grayson High School, he's coming off a state championship season where he proved to be a critical playmaker for the Rams. Known for his electrifying speed, he's reached a top-end speed of 21.5 mph on the field, leaving defenders in the dust and making him a constant deep threat. His standout performances have recently earned him offers from the University of Massachusetts and Kennesaw State University. As one of Grayson's top returning wide receivers, Jonathan is determined to build on his success and deliver a breakout season, with his sights set on leading the Rams back to another state title. Jonathan currently holds 14 offers and looking to tackle on more during the spring and this season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["418493"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":["override_image"],"_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_player_featured_image":1607866,"_player_evaluations_0_player_featured_image":"field_62f141137ead9","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-6791c3d9d14b2"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">3-star Peyton is a standout wide receiver for Carrollton High School, he's entering the upcoming season with a chip on his shoulder following the team's tough loss to Grayson in the state title game. Recently receiving offers from Appalachian State University, Georgia Southern and Kennesaw State University, Peyton's a proven playmaker with explosive speed and reliable hands, he's been a key weapon in Carrollton's high-powered offense since day one. With his ability to create separation and make big plays in critical moments, Peyton is determined to lead his team back to the state championship and avenge last year's loss. As one of Carrollton's top offensive threats, he's set to have a breakout season while continuing to draw attention from college programs. Holding currently 26 offers, he also holds offers from these heavy hitters, University of Tennessee as well as University of Georgia. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["212297"],"_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-6791c3d9d14fb"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">4-star Deuce Geralds is a dominant defensive tackle, he's solidified his place as one of the most sought-after recruits in the country. Fresh off an appearance in the prestigious Under Armour All-American Game, he recently added offers from powerhouse programs like the University of Georgia, the University of Colorado, and Stanford University, bringing his total to an impressive 53 offers. Known for his explosive strength, quick hands, and ability to disrupt offenses, Deuce was a key contributor to his team's 11-2 season. Now, he's focused on bouncing back stronger and leading his team to an even deeper playoff run while continuing to make his mark as a top-tier prospect.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->