Highlighting Deep Sleepers in '26 Rankings Update

The recently released <a href="https://prepredzone.com/iowa/rankings/2026-rankings/">Class of 2026 Rankings Update</a> included more than 500 names. It confirmed that good football players reside all around the state.   Here's a look at a group of guys down the new list who have a significant chance at upward mobility moving forward:    Bobo wouldn't be the first one picked for a pickup football game. His frame falls short of the cookie-cutter dimensions desired in a defensive lineman. Whoever chose him would be pleased with what they received, however. When I saw him during November's state semifinals, his impact was readily apparent. He's got a great motor, understands that low man wins and is physical. It led to 32.0 tackles (25 solo, 10.0 TFL) and 6.5 sacks. He's a disruptor, one that can no doubt help programs at the next level.     I caught White live in action against Iowa City Liberty last season. He's a well-rounded cornerback with sound technique. He held up well against a deep group of talented pass-catchers the Lightning threw at Waukee. Twenty of his 23.0 tackles were of the solo variety, illustrating his ability to break down in space. White even collected two stops for loss. He changes direction smoothly and moves his hips fluidly to lock down in coverage.     Law is an interesting prospect who I saw perform on multiple occasions last season. He is fast off of the snap and his quickness is hard for offensive linemen to handle. Law does a nice job with his hands in separating from blocks and gaining an advantage in general. He wrapped up his junior season with 38 tackles (15 solo, 5.5 TFL) and 4.0 sacks. He also scored a defensive touchdown and blocked two punts.     Cotton was overshadowed by other talent pieces on the Ames' offense, but he's a really an exciting receiver in his own right. He's especially tough to tackle in space but he also can win contested balls and beat defenders down the sideline. He's a willing and able blocker making him a player that can stay on the field for any play call. He averaged 23.5 yards on his 12 receptions. Cotton also tossed a 65-yard touchdown pass on his only attempt of the season.     When you play at Lewis Central, it can be tough standing out on a deep and talented roster. Tatum managed to do that as a junior in 2024, when he caught 27 passes for 741 yards (27.4 YPC) with 11 touchdowns. He also racked up 29 solo tackles and intercepted four passes. He averaged 32.8 yards on nine kick returns and 11.2 yards on 12 punt returns. Tatum is football fast, making players miss in space and accelerating past others. He's a versatile receiver that can make plays underneath, across the field or by getting deep.     Bell is a talented football player that has potential to help a college program on either side of the ball. He's an active linebacker that runs well, piling up 50.5 tackles (29 solo, 2.5 TFL) and a fumble recovery. He's also a well-rounded tight end that can impact the game as a blocker or receiver. He caught 12 passes for 126 yards and three touchdowns. Bell runs well and is a good athlete, traits that aid him whether he's on offense or defense.

The recently released Class of 2026 Rankings Update included more than 500 names. It confirmed that good football players reside all around the state.