Players to Know: Class of 2026

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1646194' first='Kaden' last='Winkfield'] | Running Back | Aledo</h2>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1646194' first='Kaden' last='Winkfield'] is a 5-foot-11, 182-pound running back, demonstrates versatility and readiness for collegiate play, combining strength, patience, vision, and speed. Winkfield amassed 888 rushing yards on 114 carries, averaging 7.8 yards per carry, and scored 13 touchdowns. He also contributed in the passing game with eight receptions for 103 yards, totaling 991 all-purpose yards.</p>   <p>His performance earned him second-team All-District honors and recognition as a two-time MaxPreps Player of the Game. Winkfield's ability to burst through gaps with quick plants and change direction at the second level often leaves defensive backs struggling to catch up. His impressive strength and tough running style enable him to drive through contact in the box and near the goal line, making him a dynamic offensive weapon.</p>   <p><em>Recruiting Note: Kaden recently received an offer from UTEP</em></p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1466519' first='Khalil' last='Sanogo'] | Offensive Lineman | Mansfield Legacy </h2>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1466519' first='Khalil' last='Sanogo'], a 6-foot-5, 295-pound offensive tackle, exhibits impressive footwork in pass protection, maintaining a stable foundation that effectively counters various defensive maneuvers. In the run game, his ability to achieve optimal pad levels at the point of contact results in solid leverage and push. Sanogo's strong hands and precise placement further showcase his upper body strength, making him a formidable presence on the offensive line.</p>   <p>Sanogo's athleticism and skills have garnered attention from collegiate programs, earning him a three-star recruit rating. He has received offers from several universities, including Arizona, California, North Texas, Texas State, and UNLV. His on-field performance has also earned him second-team All-District honors in the highly competitive 6A Region 3. </p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/khalilsanogo71/status/1897078024719491518?s=61 </div></figure>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1603355' first='Cole' last='Taylor'] | Quarterback | Pflugerville</h2>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1603355' first='Cole' last='Taylor'], a 6-foot-4, 205-pound quarterback, has demonstrated exceptional talent and precision on the field. In the 2024-25 season, he amassed 3,379 passing yards with 43 touchdowns, complemented by seven rushing touchdowns. His ability to deliver deep throws with accuracy and touch is noteworthy, consistently hitting receivers in stride, particularly on over-the-shoulder sideline routes. Taylor exhibits composure under pressure and a strong understanding of offensive reads, often progressing to his third or fourth option.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dylan Carpenter | Defensive Back | The Woodlands</h2>   <p>Dylan Carpenter (6-1, 195), a fundamentally sound linebacker/nickel hybrid with excellent lateral quickness and instincts. His ability to diagnose RPOs and react instantly gives him an edge in disrupting plays before they develop. Shows strong block-shedding technique and a knack for making plays in space. His physicality stands out in the open field, delivering solid contact while maintaining control. A high-IQ defender with the versatility to contribute in multiple roles.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/dycarpenter24/status/1894043216057369013?s=61 </div></figure>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='284160' first='Desmond' last='Cox'] | ATH | Red Oaks</h2>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='284160' first='Desmond' last='Cox'] is a 6-foot, 205-pound athlete, is renowned for his high-energy play and impactful hits, Cox excels as both an outside linebacker and free safety. His ability to deliver a strong punch from the nickel spot, coupled with his versatility and defensive intelligence, makes him a standout player.</p>   <p>Last season, Cox recorded 128 total tackles, averaging 10.7 per game, with 94 solo tackles. He also contributed 3 sacks, 4 interceptions, and caused 9 fumbles. His athletic prowess has attracted attention from collegiate programs, including an offer from North Texas. Cox maintains a 3.36 GPA, reflecting his commitment both on the field and in the classroom.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/_desmondcox/status/1894908946369921061?s=61 </div></figure>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Colt Matlock | Defensive Back | Brock</h2>   <p>Colt Matlock is a 6-foot-1, 180-pound corfor his exceptional balance, speed, and agility, Matlock stands out as a dynamic return specialist. His keen field awareness allows him to read blocks effectively, and his open-field speed enables significant gains. Offensively, he demonstrates strong hands and athleticism, making acrobatic catches in contested situations. His route running is characterized by fluid jabs and cuts, showcasing remarkable body control.</p>   <p>In his sophomore year, Matlock recorded seven interceptions and played pivotal roles in all three phases of the game, contributing significantly to Brock's advancement to the state semifinals. His performance earned him recognition as the Defensive Newcomer of the Year by Big Daddy Media DFW All-Area Football.</p>   <p><em>Recruiting Note: Matlock recently received an offer from UTEP</em></p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1653041' first='Carson' last='Dempsey'] | EDGE | Aledo</h2>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1653041' first='Carson' last='Dempsey'] is a 6-foot-3, 245-pound defensive end for Aledo High School in Texas, class of 2026. Renowned for his elite presence off the edge, Dempsey's impressive footwork and hand techniques make him a formidable force, often overwhelming blockers without exceptional quickness. Once he clears the line, his speed poses a significant threat to quarterbacks, particularly from the blind side.</p>   <p>In his sophomore year, Dempsey recorded 26 total tackles, including 20 solo tackles, and ranked 18th in the 5A-1 Region I District 3 with 3 sacks. His performance earned him an offer from the University of Texas at in October, not including his latest offer from Wyoming. </p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/carsondempsey15/status/1894955461151166543?s=61 </div></figure>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1288270' first='Kevon' last='Jackson'] | Defensive Back | Frisco Memorial</h2>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1288270' first='Kevon' last='Jackson'] (5-10, 143), A solid defensive back with a high football IQ, strong motor, and quickness. With a 4.46 40-yard dash and a top speed of 20.3 mph, Jackson showcases impressive open-field speed. His quick feet and ability to make plays on the ball stand out, particularly when reading zone schemes and making impressive jumps on throws. Jackson is also effective in coverage, using his strong, active hands at the point of the catch to cause pass breakups. A reliable defender who excels in both coverage and ball disruption.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1304000' first='Shaun' last='Mcdowell'] | Defensive Lineman | Foster</h2>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1304000' first='Shaun' last='Mcdowell'] is a 6-foot-2, 280-pound defensive lineman who has demonstrated a strong ability to generate pressure through sheer strength, often overpowering opponents. McDowell exhibits a keen pre-snap understanding, allowing him to effectively attack both interior and exterior shoulders. His repertoire includes a slick swim move that complements his bull rush technique, making him a formidable presence on the field.</p>   <p>In recognition of his performance, McDowell earned Second Team All-District honors as both a defensive lineman and offensive lineman. He also received an offer from the University of Pittsburgh in January and New Mexico in February.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/shaunmcdowell12/status/1894569187764322483?s=61 </div></figure>