Class of 2026: Defensive Backs

<p>The class of 2026 is shaping up to be a stacked group with deep levels of talent, below are list of seven play-makers in the defensive backfield you can expect to perform both this summer and fall.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nehemiah Shields | Olive Branch</h2>   <p>Nehemiah Shields is a 6-3, 188-pound defensive stud who recorded a 4.6-second 40-yard dash and maintains a 3.7 GPA. Shields is known for his impressive pressure off the edge, utilizing his length to affect passing lanes effectively. He takes good angles on the outside, applying pressure to offensive tackles outside shoulders. Additionally, he demonstrates the ability to step out and man up slot receivers with physicality and timing, contributing to pass breakups and interceptions.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Kaleb Webster | Newton County</h2>   <p>Kaleb Webster (5-11, 180) showcases a 4.47 40-yard dash and a strong presence in pass breakups, using his timing and physicality to disrupt plays. He has good awareness in the deep part of the field, taking solid angles on balls in the air. Versatile in his usage, he has shown snaps at cornerback, safety, and nickel, adapting well to different coverages. His ability to knock balls loose and execute low-level tackles makes him a valuable asset in all defensive scenarios.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1229619' first='Rashad' last='Foxworth'] | Long Beach</h2>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1229619' first='Rashad' last='Foxworth'], standing at 5-10, 175-pounds has been recognized as the Region 4-6A Defensive MVP. Foxworth exhibits strong instincts and physicality, particularly in disrupting screen plays by effectively shedding blocks. He demonstrates excellent shadowing ability on receivers inside hips, minimizing passing windows with his length and awareness. His explosive breaks from his backpedal enable him to anticipate and jump on one-cut routes, leading to pass breakups and interceptions.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Quayvion Lowery | Choctaw County</h2>   <p>Quayvion Lowery is a 5-10, 175-pound defensive back known for his physical presence on the field, often causing receivers to brace for contact due to his reputation as a hard-hitting safety. He excels in run support, displaying excellent timing and the ability to shoot gaps effectively. In pass coverage, he utilizes a proficient swipe technique to disrupt passes in one-on-one situations. His quick footwork and fluid hip movements allow him to mirror receivers closely, enabling him to anticipate and react swiftly to their cuts.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1219526' first='Tre' last='Williams'] | West Harrison</h2>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1219526' first='Tre' last='Williams'] (6-0, 180) is a stabilizing force for his defensive unit, bringing consistency across all areas from his defensive back position. His solid footwork and disciplined technique make him a reliable defender in 1-on-1 situations, using timely hands and sharp angles to contest passes effectively. Williams also excels in diagnosing and attacking the screen game, taking great pursuit angles to limit yards after the catch. In the run game, he showcases strong solo tackling skills, ensuring he is a dependable last line of defense against ball carriers.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Brandon Swilley | Copiah Academy</h2>   <p>Brandon Swilley (6-0, 170) displays a solid backpedal with smooth hip transitions in coverage, allowing him to stay in phase with receivers. His footwork is quick and efficient, wasting little movement as he adjusts in either direction. Swilley brings good hit speed and torque when tackling ball carriers, showing physicality at the point of contact. In open-field situations, he demonstrates strong breakdown skills, ensuring he can make solo tackles with consistency.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1525803' first='Mikeal' last='Willis'] | Lamar</h2>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1525803' first='Mikeal' last='Willis'] (6-1, 170) is a solid all-around defender with impressive speed and ball awareness in the deep part of the field. His hip transitions and footwork are well-refined, allowing him to move fluidly and explosively in coverage. Willis showcases strong anticipation on underneath routes, closing in quickly with good acceleration and hit speed. His ability to read plays and react swiftly makes him a reliable presence in the secondary.</p>

The class of 2026 is shaping up to be a stacked group with deep levels of talent, below are list of seven play-makers in the defensive backfield you can expect to perform both this summer and fall.