2026 Under the Radar: EDGE Rushers

EDGE rushers, also known as defensive ends, are the spark plugs of any defense—charged with disrupting the quarterback and forcing turnovers with their speed and tenacity. In this edition of our "Under the Radar" series, we're shining the spotlight on the Class of 2026 EDGE rushers. These dynamic athletes may not always steal the headlines, but their ability to pressure offenses and change the course of games is undeniable. Join us as we introduce you to these promising prospects, the future game-changers who are ready to make a significant impact on the field.    I believe Wilson should only be classified as "under the radar" because of where he attends high school. Wilson plays football for 3A powerhouse Banks High School. Not too many people are getting around to watching 3A football, but I have a feeling Wilson will have college coaches checking it out his senior year. The frame is impressive. Both his height and weight are well beyond what needs to be considered for the next level, and his play backs it up. With Wilson playing 3A ball, attending some camps this offseason could greatly benefit his recruitment.     Verstegen is a very solid player out of Crater High School. He has a swiss army knife type of game as he can rush off the edge, crash inside and give the guards some trouble, or even line up on the inside. He has a nice dense frame but is athletic enough to be considered an EDGE rusher, but the frame helps him stop the run and overpower opponents. I am excited to watch him for his senior year.     When I turned on his film, Mesa was a pleasant surprise. I have him listed as an EDGE rusher for this article, but he might even grade higher as an interior defensive lineman. He is a big, physical lineman who could develop nicely at the next level. His frame should add muscle mass nicely, and he may be playing out of position at his school as he is a bit of a tweener. I feel strongly that Mesa will be a steal for a college program next year.     Elliott is another tweener. When you read the measurables, you would think, "How is this guy anything but an EDGE rusher?" Well, welcome to Oregon high school football. Elliott played on the interior last year, and he was imposing. His athleticism was too much to handle for some of Oregon's interior offensive linemen, and he was strong enough to hold his own in the run game. I see Elliott projecting as an EDGE rusher at the next level unless we see a crazy bulk from him.     Schmoll, out of Centennial, shows some impressive flashes of pass-rush ability off the edge. His light size is a bit of a concern, but his athleticism makes up for it at the high school level. There are times when Schmoll can just run past the offensive tackle if he does not take the proper set. Continuing to perfect his pass rush moves while also bulking up to ensure he is not a liability in the run game will be vital for Schmoll and his development.

EDGE rushers, also known as defensive ends, are the spark plugs of any defense—charged with disrupting the quarterback and forcing turnovers with their speed and tenacity. In this edition of our "Under the Radar" series, we're shining the spotlight on the Class of 2026 EDGE rushers. These dynamic athletes may not always steal the headlines, but their ability to pressure offenses and change the course of games is undeniable. Join us as we introduce you to these promising prospects, the future game-changers who are ready to make a significant impact on the field.