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Under the Radar No More: DBs That Are Climbing the 2026 Rankings!

Under the Radar No More: DBs That Are Climbing the 2026 Rankings!
Robert Davis
Robert Davis February 26, 2025 @ 01:45 PM
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In this article:

Joshua Gallien
Joshua Gallien 6'0" | 170 lbs | DB/WR | 2026
CO
Diego Gamez
Diego Gamez 6'2" | 150 lbs | DB | 2026
CO
Jeremiah Stephens
Jeremiah Stephens 5'10" | 160 lbs | DB/WR | 2026
CO
JaKehlan Watts
JaKehlan Watts 6'2" | 170 lbs | DB/WR | 2026
CO
Justyn Jordan
Justyn Jordan 6'3" | 180 lbs | DB/RB | 2026
CO
Marcus Salmeron
Marcus Salmeron 5'6" | 135 lbs | DB/RB | 2026
CO
Isaak Alvidrez
Isaak Alvidrez 5'8" | 150 lbs | DB | 2026
CO
<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>If you are new to the site or a new subscriber use CODE: Davis30 for a discount. Today we will be taking a look at some DB's that are climbing the ranks and who will be turning some heads this upcoming season. These are the players that you need to put on your radar because they won't be flying undetected anymore.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1617602"],"_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-67bf6f4dd1b89"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Gallien has established himself as a true lockdown corner, consistently eliminating his assignments as a receiving threats. His ability to read routes and time his jumps allowed him to snag four interceptions this past season, showcasing his ballhawking skills and strong hands. Gallien excels at playing the receiver while maintaining the awareness to high point the football, making him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. While his primary strength lies in coverage, he's not afraid to step up in run support when needed, demonstrating versatility in his defensive approach. As the focal point of his team's defense, he made life difficult for offenses, forcing them to look away from his side of the field.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1420883"],"_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-67bf6f4dd1bf6"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Jordan is a safety with elite coverage skills, reading quarterbacks like a seasoned veteran. His ability to analyze plays, process his keys, and anticipate throws resulted in four interceptions last season. His soft hands and awareness allow him to capitalize on mistakes, making him a dangerous threat in the secondary. Jordan isn't just a ballhawk he's also a sure tackler in the open field, quickly closing on ball carriers and preventing big plays. He's comfortable dropping back into coverage or stepping up to disrupt the run game, showing off his well rounded defensive ability. As he heads into the offseason, Jordan will focus on becoming even more effective in run support, looking to expand his impact on the field. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1613011"],"_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-67bf6f4dd1c4c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Stephens has proven himself as a lockdown defender with a knack for making quarterbacks pay. He racked up six interceptions this season, including one he returned for a touchdown, showing his ability to read and react to throws. His instincts allow him to anticipate plays, and when tested, he often comes out on top. But Stephens isn't just a coverage specialist, he also provides a strong presence in the run game, tallying 37 total tackles. He's physical, unafraid to mix it up, and plays with an edge that makes him stand out. As his stock continues to rise, expect Stephens to turn even more heads next season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1553409"],"_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-67bf6f4dd1c93"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Watts has all the tools to be a premier shutdown corner. His ball skills are exceptional, as evidenced by his five interceptions this past season, consistently high pointing passes and making difficult interceptions look routine. Watts thrives in man coverage, possessing the speed to stick with receivers and the instincts to anticipate throws. His ability to mirror routes and make plays on the ball puts quarterbacks in a tough spot when deciding to challenge him. Even when he's not forcing turnovers, he disrupts passing lanes and makes life difficult for opposing offenses. His athleticism also allows him to be a solid open field tackler, ensuring that receivers don't turn short gains into big plays. With his skill set and work ethic, Watts is on track to be one of the top corners in 4A football next season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1314923"],"_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-67bf6f4dd1cd7"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Alvidrez is a cornerback with a relentless motor and sharp instincts. He excels at reading the QB's eyes, allowing him to break on the ball with precision. While he recorded just one interception this season, his ability to play trail technique and close gaps quickly makes him a disruptive force in coverage. Alvidrez isn't just a coverage guy, his hustle and determination shine in run support, where he takes great pursuit angles to track down ball carriers, even across the field. His film highlights his tenacity, showing him making plays far outside of his assignment. His ability to contest passes and disrupt routes makes him a standout player to know.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1617230"],"_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-67bf6f4dd1d1b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A true ballhawk, Gamez hauled in an impressive eight interceptions this season, returning one for a touchdown. His instincts in coverage allow him to jump routes and create turnovers, making him a major problem for opposing quarterbacks. But his impact isn't limited to the passing game, he also forced a fumble and showed his ability to step up against the run, delivering big hits when needed. Gamez thrives in one on one matchups, often shutting down an opponent's top receiver and taking them out of the game plan. His combination of coverage skills, physicality, and football IQ makes him one of the premier defensive backs in 2A. Expect him to hit the camp circuit hard and continue turning heads.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1420786"],"_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-67bf6f4dd1d6b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Salmeron may not have the prototypical size for a defender at 5'6”, but his motor and toughness make up for it in a big way. He plays with an aggressive mindset, flying around the field and getting involved in nearly every play. Salmeron finished the season with 84 total tackles, proving his ability to bring down ball carriers with consistency. His speed allows him to close on plays quickly, and he has a knack for stripping the ball when given the opportunity. Despite being an under the radar player, his production speaks for itself. He plays with a chip on his shoulder, always looking to prove himself. His relentless pursuit and tackling ability make him a player that you need to know. With his work ethic and playmaking ability, he's a name that deserves more attention heading into next season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->

If you are new to the site or a new subscriber use CODE: Davis30 for a discount. Today we will be taking a look at some DB's that are climbing the ranks and who will be turning some heads this upcoming season. These are the players that you need to put on your radar because they won't be flying undetected anymore.

Joshua Gallien

Joshua Gallien

CO
DB/WR
HEIGHT 6'0"
WEIGHT 170
POS DB/WR
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Joshua
Gallien DB/WR
Class
2026
Height
6'0"
Weight
170
HS
Vista Peak Prep
|
CO
Under the Radar No More: DBs That Are Climbing the 2026 Rankings!
Gallien has established himself as a true lockdown corner, consistently eliminating his assignments as a receiving threats. His...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Joshua Gallien

Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Vista Peak Prep
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Justyn Jordan

Justyn Jordan

CO
DB/RB
HEIGHT 6'3"
WEIGHT 180
POS DB/RB
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Justyn
Jordan DB/RB
Class
2026
Height
6'3"
Weight
180
HS
Fountain Fort-Carson
|
CO
Under the Radar No More: DBs That Are Climbing the 2026 Rankings!
Jordan is a safety with elite coverage skills, reading quarterbacks like a seasoned veteran. His ability to analyze...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Justyn Jordan

Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Fountain Fort-Carson
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Jeremiah Stephens

Jeremiah Stephens

CO
DB/WR
HEIGHT 5'10"
WEIGHT 160
POS DB/WR
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Jeremiah
Stephens DB/WR
Class
2026
Height
5'10"
Weight
160
HS
Holy Family
|
CO
Under the Radar No More: DBs That Are Climbing the 2026 Rankings!
Stephens has proven himself as a lockdown defender with a knack for making quarterbacks pay. He racked up...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Jeremiah Stephens

Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Holy Family
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

JaKehlan Watts

JaKehlan Watts

CO
DB/WR
HEIGHT 6'2"
WEIGHT 170
POS DB/WR
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
JaKehlan
Watts DB/WR
Class
2026
Height
6'2"
Weight
170
HS
Mesa Ridge
|
CO
Under the Radar No More: DBs That Are Climbing the 2026 Rankings!
Watts has all the tools to be a premier shutdown corner. His ball skills are exceptional, as evidenced...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

JaKehlan Watts

Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Mesa Ridge
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Isaak Alvidrez

Isaak Alvidrez

CO
DB
HEIGHT 5'8"
WEIGHT 150
POS DB
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Isaak
Alvidrez DB
Class
2026
Height
5'8"
Weight
150
HS
Riverdale Ridge
|
CO
Under the Radar No More: DBs That Are Climbing the 2026 Rankings!
Alvidrez is a cornerback with a relentless motor and sharp instincts. He excels at reading the QB’s eyes,...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Isaak Alvidrez

Instagram Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Riverdale Ridge
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Diego Gamez

Diego Gamez

CO
DB
HEIGHT 6'2"
WEIGHT 150
POS DB
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Diego
Gamez DB
Class
2026
Height
6'2"
Weight
150
HS
Coal Ridge
|
CO
Under the Radar No More: DBs That Are Climbing the 2026 Rankings!
A true ballhawk, Gamez hauled in an impressive eight interceptions this season, returning one for a touchdown. His...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Diego Gamez

Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Coal Ridge
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Marcus Salmeron

Marcus Salmeron

CO
DB/RB
HEIGHT 5'6"
WEIGHT 135
POS DB/RB
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Marcus
Salmeron DB/RB
Class
2026
Height
5'6"
Weight
135
HS
Frederick
|
CO
Under the Radar No More: DBs That Are Climbing the 2026 Rankings!
Salmeron may not have the prototypical size for a defender at 5’6”, but his motor and toughness make...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Marcus Salmeron

State: Colorado
School: Frederick
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

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