Making Sense of Our 2026 Wide Receiver Class

The Class of 2026 Wide Receiver class is very interesting. Predicting which receivers will be recruited and which won't is always challenging- a lot goes into those decisions. Though, I think I have a good handle of at least the top couple of guys, while there are plenty of receivers "lower" on the rankings who could impress enough to earn offers. It all really comes down to who performs well during camp season!   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Clear Top 4</h2>   More will undoubtedly be added to this list as I learn more about the class, but there are currently four receivers that stand above the rest.    Samson is one of those special players that combines great athleticism with excellent IQ.   Of course, Samson can take the top off of the defense and outrun most defenders. Though, I don't see him running full speed all of the time. Watch his tape and look at the play at 0:45. Yes, there's some moments of excellent explosiveness, but for most of the play, he's being patient, waiting for his blocks to develop, and absolutely pulls the rug out from defenders when the opportunity arises. The obvious #1 wide receiver in Michigan.     Although Chippewa Valley's 2024 offense was disappointing, William Jones-Terell still flashed his skillset.   His tape shows a few very good deep routes and a few good comebacks. In addition, a couple of good blocks and some RAC. It's a mixed bag, but his 11.18 100M speed, in addition to his great camp showings, proves he can be a Power 4 prospect. Though, now, he's more my #4 WR in the class. Still, definitely in the top 4 with the receivers currently in the rankings.     Damion remains near the top of the class for me, even though he's slipped a tad in other publications (I have no idea why).   He's a great all-around receiver. Playing mostly in the slot, he's able to catch those underneath and intermediate balls while earning plenty of RAC. Love his route running, love the RAC.   Damion is also a proven blocker. Does the dirty work, is decently physical, and is overall very well-rounded. I could definitely see Damion working his way to good playing time in the B1G 10 one day.     Braylon is about to have a tremendous 2025 season after a breakout 2024 year. He's a lot like Damion- he plays in the slot, is utilized in space a lot, etc. The play <a href="https://www.hudl.com/video/3/15571133/67369f9ed51e98451a07c071">at 0:28</a> (+ 0:47, 1:10) perfectly showcases Braylon's open-field elusiveness. Braylon also runs excellent routes. Comebacks, whip, post, you name it- Braylon knows how to create separation for himself. His routes and hands alone make for a MAC prospect. With a little more experience under his belt, the entire MAC should be after him.    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Sea of Potential </h2>   Two of MANY receivers who could earn offers this offseason.    Duda is someone I've talked about quite a few times since I saw him during the season. I have him as a GLIAC prospect, but it really depends on his offseason camp performances.   He's got the size and has quite a bit of offseason tape that proves he can run the entire route tree with good attention to detail. I also know he's a very competitive player- something that is critical to performing at the next level. If he's willing to work for it, I see Duda earning GLAIC looks this offseason while maybe being a late-bloomer D1 prospect with a phenomenal 2025 season- we'll see!     I don't recall ever seeing [player_tooltip player_id='1148717' first='Ronnie' last='Hill'] in person, but he could be another receiver who gets recruited by the GLIAC this offseason. He saw a lot of production this past season- 611 yards and 5TDs. His first few highlights show a couple impressive 50/50 catches, while plays like <a href="https://www.hudl.com/video/3/19624103/672e5b46734d601a038d3bd3">3:24</a> show solid route-running and hands. I don't think his tape is very varied- a lot of deep routes and 50/50 catches frontloading the tape, but I think he still has the skill to show out at camps.

The Class of 2026 Wide Receiver class is very interesting. Predicting which receivers will be recruited and which won't is always challenging- a lot goes into those decisions. Though, I think I have a good handle of at least the top couple of guys, while there are plenty of receivers "lower" on the rankings who could impress enough to earn offers. It all really comes down to who performs well during camp season!