Rankings Risers: Class of 2026

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Check out five recruits in the 2026 class who I project to improve their rank in our next rankings release.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1286601' first='Jordan' last='Kinney'] | Linebacker | Dumas</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1286601' first='Jordan' last='Kinney'], standing 5-foot-11 and 180-pounds, is recognized for his physicality and instinctive play, particularly in run defense. His quick first step and solid angles enable him to effectively contain outside runs, while his anticipation allows him to disrupt screen plays before blockers can establish their positions. Kinney's ability to read wide receiver bubble screens and react swiftly further enhances his defensive impact.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In the 2024 season, Kinney recorded 143 total tackles, averaging 11 tackles per game, and contributed 2 tackles for loss and 1 sack. Kinney's performance earned him the honor is being ranked 6th in Arkansas and 1st in the 3A classification in total tackles.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='204462' first='Dax' last='McMellon'] | Quarterback | Sheridan</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A quarterback with elite precision both in the pocket and on the move, [player_tooltip player_id='204462' first='Dax' last='McMellon'] (6-0, 200) excels in delivering accurate passes with a blend of touch and velocity. His ability to read defenses post-snap is impressive, allowing him to adjust quickly and make solid decisions. McMellon exhibits excellent pocket patience, waiting for plays to develop, and shows strong coverage awareness, making him capable of fitting throws into tight windows. His high football IQ and quick recognition of snap reads make him a reliable and dynamic leader on the field.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1152703' first='Braylon' last='Stigger'] | Defensive Back | Pine Bluff</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1152703' first='Braylon' last='Stigger'], a 6-foot-1, 175-pound defensive back, is recognized for his versatility and consistent performance on the field. His quick footwork and smooth hip transitions enhance his coverage abilities, while his keen awareness and decisive run-play recognition make him a valuable asset in run support. Stigger's skill set aligns well with the nickel position at the collegiate level, where his agility and football intelligence allow him to effectively manage both coverage responsibilities and run defense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>Recruiting Note: Braylon received an offer from Arkansas Baptist in late January.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='893510' first='Keagan' last='Sanderson'] | EDGE | Salem</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='893510' first='Keagan' last='Sanderson'], a 5-foot-10, 210-pound junior defensive end, has made a significant impact on the field. In the 2024 season, he led the state with 17 sacks, complemented by 77 tackles and 23 tackles for loss. Sanderson's elite quickness off the snap, combined with his exceptional footwork, allows him to penetrate offensive lines effectively. His versatility suggests potential for transitioning to linebacker at the collegiate level. Notably, he employs a formidable spin move, enhancing his pass-rushing arsenal. His closing speed in the backfield is remarkable, and his cerebral approach ensures he maintains proper positioning and awareness on the field.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Sanderson's outstanding performance earned him a spot on the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette's First Team All-Arkansas Preps, he also earned Top Performer honors at Prep Redzone's latest event in Little Rock in January. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1415596' first='Zadean' last='Wilson'] | Linebacker | Marion</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A disruptive edge presence with a rare blend of quickness and power, [player_tooltip player_id='1415596' first='Zadean' last='Wilson'] (6-3, 215) thrives at attacking the backfield. His acceleration and pad level make him a tough assignment for offensive tackles, while his finishing ability ensures plays end behind the line of scrimmage. Wilson's agility allows him to shoot inside gaps with precision, and his strength makes him a problem for pulling blockers, often blowing up plays before they develop. His awareness of blocking schemes allows him to anticipate and position himself effectively, limiting running lanes and shutting down long-developing plays.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>Recruiting Note: Zadean recently received an offer from Central Methodist University earlier this month</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->