Polk Prospects to Watch This Spring

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>CJ Cresser | DB | 2025 | Lakeland | @CJCresser</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Cresser's move to Lakeland will only elevate his game. A true lockdown corner, he thrives in both man and zone coverage, showing strong instincts and a developing football IQ. Despite his mid-season transfer, he hasn't missed a beat, continuing to impress on the field. With his frame and ball skills, expect college scouts to take notice of his ability to shut down opposing receivers.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='869381' first='Zyuan' last='Dukes'] | WR | 2026 | Lake Wales | @ZDhumble3</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>One of the more dynamic receivers in Polk County, Dukes combines speed, route running, and a solid catch radius to make tough grabs look effortless. Standing at 6-0, 175 pounds, he's a legitimate deep threat who can create separation with ease. With a strong offseason, he has all the tools to become one of the most sought-after receivers in Central Florida.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1581905' first='Jadarius' last='Dobie'] | RB | 2026 | Lakeland | @_dxbie</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Dobie stepped up in big moments last season, proving he can handle a heavy workload. A relentless runner with great vision, he's poised for an even bigger role in Lakeland's offense this fall. Expect him to be one of the top backs to watch as he continues to develop his all-around game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Aaron Truedell | RB | 2027 | LCS | @clapz_aj</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>One of the most intriguing young backs in Polk County, Truedell impressed with his route running, soft hands, and breakaway speed during offseason workouts. He dominated 1v1s, showcasing his ability to make defenders miss in open space. With a strong spring and summer, he could quickly emerge as a major name in the 2027 class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Tayron Grant | ATH | 2026 | Mulberry | @4pf__tayy</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A key piece for Mulberry's defense, Grant has been one of the county's top tacklers in the 2026 class. His instincts, physicality, and nose for the football make him a disruptive force. As he continues to refine his technique and add strength, expect his recruitment to gain traction.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>D'Cari Smith | LB | 2026 | Lake Wales | @1era__</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Stats: 100 total tackles | 16.0 TFL</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Smith has been a difference-maker for Lake Wales, racking up 16 tackles for loss with his aggressive, downhill play style. His ability to diagnose plays and shoot gaps gives him a natural edge at linebacker. With another year of development, he has the potential to be a high-level recruit.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1581772' first='Cayden' last='Clark'] | WR | 2026 | Fort Meade | @caydenclark24</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>One of the more underrated receivers in Polk County, Clark had a breakout season and recently picked up an offer from Miami (Ohio). His ability to win contested catches and stretch the field makes him a name to track this spring as he looks to elevate his recruitment.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Darion Jiles | ATH | 2026 | Auburndale | @DarionJiles07</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Jiles is a versatile playmaker ready to make a statement this spring. With a combination of size, speed, and ball skills, he has the tools to shine in multiple roles. This evaluation period will be crucial in showcasing his skill set to college programs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Cassidy Ervin | WR | 2026 | Winter Haven | @CassidyErvinn</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A lightning-quick slot receiver and a physical defensive back, Ervin has been turning heads with his impact on the 7v7 circuit. His ability to separate from defenders and make plays in the secondary makes him an intriguing prospect to follow as he continues to gain recognition.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Devonte Howard | WR | 2026 | LCS | @DJhoward_6</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Howard has played multiple positions but is expected to settle in at wide receiver for his high school team. His athleticism and playmaking ability make him a versatile weapon who could thrive in different offensive schemes.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->