FREE REPORT: PRZ New England C/O-2026: Top Five Prospects And Why

In this article:
The most recent ranking update for the New England class of 2026 has been published. In this report, I will review the "Top Five" prospects from New England's 2026 class and explore the reasons behind their high rankings. I anticipate these five prospects will closely compete for the number 1 rank placement leading up to NCAA decision signing day in December 2025. However, as of today, these are the top five prosepcts listed in order 1-5 and why.
Updated Ranking:#15 Overall Recruit / #3 Edge Defender in New England
Marcus Almada , a standout edge defender from Tabor Academy in Massachusetts, has demonstrated remarkable progression since our last evaluation in March 2025. His impressive list of verbal offers has expanded dramatically since our last update in March 2025, now including top programs such as Clemson, Notre Dame, and Penn State, which reinforces his status as an elite talent in the New England region. He has offers from the following schools: Army, Brown, Dartmouth, James Madison, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Morgan State, Navy, Oklahoma State, Old Dominion, Rhode Island, Syracuse, West Virginia, Uconn, / Virginia, Wake Forrest, Maryland, Ole Miss, Auburn, Arizona State, Penn State, Notre Dame, Minnesota, South Florida, Clemson,
Almada ranks #15 overall and #3 among edge defenders before his recent flock of additional offers, a reflection of both his physical attributes and on-field performance. He combines size with agility at 6′ 4.5” and 280 lbs, allowing him to fend off blockers while maintaining a quick burst off the line. His ability to read run keys and track the ball further distinguishes him from his peers. Each play showcases his relentless work ethic and hustle, making him a formidable presence on the field.
Recognized as an NCAA Division 1 Power 4 prospect and a 2024 All-NEPSAC Honorable Mention, Almada has shown consistent growth, and his upward trajectory is promising including additional rise into our ranking board for class of 2026 coming soon. His exceptional understanding of stance, hand placement, and leverage highlights his readiness for the next level.
As he continues to develop his skills and attract national attention, Marcus Almada ‘s position within the Top 100 is well-deserved and should be closely monitored in the upcoming seasons. His potential is immense, and his work ethic ensures he will continue to rise through the ranks, which will be reflected in our next ranking refresher update in May-June 2025.
Highlights
Carter Gooden
Carter
Gooden
6'5" | 255 lbs | EDGE
Tabor Academy | 2026
State
New E
, New England, Class of 2026
Position: Edge / Linebacker
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 255 lbs
School: Tabor Academy
Film Review: 2024 Season
Overview:
Carter Gooden
Carter
Gooden
6'5" | 255 lbs | EDGE
Tabor Academy | 2026
State
New E
is an exceptional talent emerging from Tabor Academy, showcasing an impressive blend of size, speed, and technique that sets him apart on the field! At 6'5” and 255 pounds, he combines excellent physical attributes with elite skills and a competitive spirit that makes him a standout player.
Strengths:
- Technique Mastery: Carter demonstrates a mastery of fundamental pass-rushing techniques, notably using effective rip and swim moves that leave opponents struggling to keep pace.
- Burst and Quickness: His quickness is extraordinary, highlighted by a powerful first step that allows him to disrupt plays instantly. His speed off the edge is impressive and consistently threatens the quarterback!
- Strength at the Point of Attack: Not only does Carter possess explosive speed, but he also showcases remarkable strength, making him a force at the point of attack. His power rush is incredibly effective and evident in all his film.
- Fluidity and Balance: His lateral quickness and balance are impressive, characterized by fluid and coordinated movements that enhance his ability to navigate through blockers and pursue the ball.
- Effort and Consistency: Carter consistently gives maximum effort on every play. His relentless pursuit is commendable, demonstrating a strong work ethic and passion for the game!
- Physical Dominance: With his current stature and build, Carter has excellent size that translates well to his position, making him not just effective but a formidable presence on the field.
Current Recruitment Status:
Carter is generating significant interest from a wide array of renowned programs! He currently holds verbal offers from prestigious schools including Boston College, Syracuse, Rutgers, Penn State, Michigan State, Texas A&M, Arizona State, Duke, North Carolina, California, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Kentucky, Wake Forest, West Virginia, Buffalo, Oklahoma State, Stanford, and Kennesaw State, Minnesota, and Northwestern. This highlights his considerable talent and the potential impact he can have at the collegiate level!
Conclusion:
Carter GoodenCarter Gooden 6'5" | 255 lbs | EDGE Tabor Academy | 2026 State New E is undoubtedly a rising star in the landscape of high school football! His combination of athleticism, techniques, and sheer will on the field not only makes him an exciting prospect but also an asset for any college program lucky enough to recruit him. As he continues to develop, the sky is the limit for this talented athlete! Video Highlights: Carter Gooden
Carter Gooden 6'5" | 255 lbs | EDGE Tabor Academy | 2026 State New E 's Hudl Profile.
Highlights
High School Prospect Performance Evaluation
Player Name:
Marky Walbridge
Marky
Walbridge
6'6" | 285 lbs | OL
Saint Sebastian's School Ma. | 2026
State
New E
Position: Offensive Lineman (OL)
School: Saint Sebastian's School, Massachusetts
Class of: 2026
Height: 6' 6"
Weight: 285 lbs
Region: New England
Evaluation Summary:
Marky Walbridge
Marky
Walbridge
6'6" | 285 lbs | OL
Saint Sebastian's School Ma. | 2026
State
New E
is a remarkable offensive lineman poised to be a powerful presence on the field. Standing at an impressive 6'6" and weighing 285 lbs, he possesses all the physical attributes that make him a coveted Power 4 prospect. His blend of size, strength, and agility sets him apart from other players in his class.
Physical Attributes & Skills:
- Strength: Marky exemplifies what it means to be a strong lineman. His ability to dominate the line of scrimmage is evident in his performances, where he consistently puts defenders on their backs.
- Quickness: With astonishing foot speed and rapid hand movements, he neutralizes any defender regardless of size. His agility allows him to excel in both pass protection and run blocking scenarios.
- Balance & Pad Level: Marky plays with exceptional balance, rarely finding himself on the ground. His technique demonstrates outstanding pad level, attributed to his effective knee bend and wide base, which helps him anchor against powerful defenders.
Gameplay Analysis:
- Run Game Dominance: Marky's film showcases his ability to move the line of scrimmage by up to five yards at will, truly highlighting his power in the run game. He adeptly navigates to the second level and continues to excel in space, delivering key blocks to further the offensive play.
- Pass Protection: His technical proficiency shines when he naturally passes sets, slides, and mirrors defensive movements. He maintains balance while running and displays an impressive ability to connect with moving targets downfield, showcasing his awareness and versatility.
Accolades & Offers:
Marky has earned recognition as an All-State and All-Area/District player, a testament to his impactful performance on the field. His skills have not gone unnoticed, as he is currently stacking up verbal offers from a plethora of esteemed institutions, including:
D1 Powerhouses: Penn State, Boston College, Michigan, Tennessee, Massachusetts, Maryland, Rutgers, South Carolina, Syracuse, Nebraska, Duke, Michigan State, Virginia, Pittsburgh, Wisconsin, Connecticut, Temple, West Virginia, Virginia Tech, Vanderbilt, Liberty, Kentucky, Wake Forest, Ohio State, and most recent University of Florida.
Conclusion:
In conclusion,
Marky Walbridge
Marky
Walbridge
6'6" | 285 lbs | OL
Saint Sebastian's School Ma. | 2026
State
New E
is an extraordinary talent ready to make his mark in collegiate football. With an exceptional combination of size, skill, and determination, he certainly has a bright future ahead as a premier offensive lineman. Coaches across the nation should prioritize recruitment efforts for this standout player as he embarks on the next chapter of his football journey!
Watch Marky's Highlights Here: Hudl
Highlights
Player Name:
Anthony Lenneil Hall
Anthony
Lenneil Hall
6'4" | 330 lbs | OL
Dexter | 2026
State
New E
Region: New England
Graduation Year: 2026
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 340 lbs
Position: Offensive Lineman
School: Dexter School
Performance Overview:
Anthony Lenneil Hall
Anthony
Lenneil Hall
6'4" | 330 lbs | OL
Dexter | 2026
State
New E
is an exceptional young offensive lineman with a bright future ahead of him in the sport. Standing tall at 6'4" and weighing in at 340 pounds, Anthony possesses not only impressive size but also remarkable athleticism, a combination that is seldom found at this level.
Technical Skills:
Anthony consistently demonstrates a great stance and low base, allowing him to harness significant power in every play. His ability to leverage his strength is evident as he dominates the line of scrimmage (LOS), often moving defenders and putting them on their backs. He shows a natural ability to move the line of scrimmage by an astounding five yards at will, showcasing his power and technique.
With experience in track, Anthony exhibits fluidity and athleticism in space, making him a versatile asset. He excels at getting to the second level, where he continues to win in space, applying pressure on defenders downfield. His balance is exceptional, remaining upright and rarely hitting the ground, which speaks to his strong fundamentals.
Footwork & Technique:
Anthony exhibits excellent pad level and knee bend, both crucial elements for an offensive lineman. His wide base allows for a sturdy foundation, essential for both run and pass blocking. His ability to pass set, slide, and mirror is remarkable for his age, demonstrating advanced skills that will undoubtedly translate well to higher levels of competition.
Game Impact:
Beyond individual performances, Anthony's hustle and relentless effort make him a playmaker on the field. His commitment to every snap and his ability to hit moving targets downfield establish him as an offensive threat, showcasing his readiness to contribute significantly to any team.
Accolades:
- All-State Recognition
- Verbal commitment to the University of North Carolina, where he looks forward to being developed under the legendary NFL Coach Bill Belichick, who will begin coaching at UNC in fall 2025.
- Offers from notable programs including North Carolina, Boston College, Charlotte, Duke, Kentucky, Maryland, Penn State, Rutgers, Syracuse, Tennessee, UMass, Virginia, Virginia Tech, and West Virginia.
Conclusion:
With his outstanding combination of size, skill, and athleticism, Anthony Lenneil HallAnthony Lenneil Hall 6'4" | 330 lbs | OL Dexter | 2026 State New E is poised to become a standout player at any level of competition. His commitment to excellence and his dedication to his craft indicate that he will be a key player for the University of North Carolina and beyond. Keep an eye on this remarkable prospect as he continues his football journey – exciting times are ahead! Hudl Profile:
Highlights
High School Prospect Performance Evaluation
Prospect Name:
Kayden Bennett
Kayden
Bennett
6'2" | 245 lbs | EDGE
Suffield | 2026
State
New E
Grade: 2026
Position: Defensive Lineman (DL)
School: Suffield Academy
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 245 lbs
Location: New England
College Offers:
- University at Buffalo
- Wake Forest
- Temple University
- University of Connecticut
- University of Massachusetts
- University of Rhode Island
- Syracuse University
- Boston College
- University of Washington
- Liberty University
- West Virginia University
- Akron University
Morgan State
Performance Overview:
Kayden Bennett
Kayden
Bennett
6'2" | 245 lbs | EDGE
Suffield | 2026
State
New E
has shown remarkable promise as a defensive lineman, earning verbal offers from several esteemed collegiate programs. His performance on the field illustrates a unique combination of size, speed, and technique that sets him apart from his peers.
Strengths:
- Physical Dominance: Kayden has the ability to overpower or outmaneuver high school offensive linemen with ease. His physicality is evident as he consistently wins battles at the line of scrimmage, commanding double-teams and finding ways to still break through.
- Elite Quickness: His quick-twitch get-off skills are exceptional, allowing him to react rapidly at the snap and create immediate pressure. This speed not only makes him a threat in the run game but also in pass-rushing scenarios, where he has shown he can develop effective pass rush moves.
- Technical Proficiency: Kayden exhibits advanced footwork and leverage, which are critical in maintaining a strong presence in the run game. His technique allows him to shed blockers and maintain his gap assignments, demonstrating a mature understanding of defensive principles.
- Agility and Flexibility: Being described as a big guy who moves like a defensive back, Kayden's agility is particularly noteworthy. His ability to flip his hips quickly in either direction allows him to adjust to offensive plays seamlessly.
- Gap Penetration: He consistently showcases the ability to penetrate gaps at will, disrupting offensive plays and creating opportunities for his teammates. This skill makes him a valuable asset on defense.
Final Assessment:
Kayden Bennett
Kayden
Bennett
6'2" | 245 lbs | EDGE
Suffield | 2026
State
New E
is a standout prospect with significant collegiate potential. His combination of size, speed, and technique makes him a prime candidate for a successful future at the next level. With continued training and development, particularly in honing his pass rush capabilities and leadership qualities, he has all the tools necessary to become a formidable player in college football and beyond. Link to Highlight Reel:
Kayden Bennett
Kayden
Bennett
6'2" | 245 lbs | EDGE
Suffield | 2026
State
New E
Hudl Profile
Highlights
High School Prospect Performance Evaluation
Player Name: Alhassan Iddrisu
Position: DL Edge
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 250 lbs
High School: St. Thomas More School
Graduating Year: 2026
Offers: West Virginia, Washington State, Washington, USC, Texas A&M, Syracuse, Minnesota, Michigan, Florida State, UConn, California (Berkeley)
Performance Overview:
Alhassan Iddrisu has showcased remarkable potential as a defensive lineman at the high school level. His performance on the field has earned him verbal offers from numerous competitive Division I programs, demonstrating both his skill and the impression he has made on college scouts.
Strengths:
- Quickness and Speed: Alhassan exhibits an impressive burst off the line, making him a formidable presence on the edge. His agility allows him to navigate through blockers effectively, enabling him to make impactful plays consistently.
- Technique: His film displays a high level of technical prowess, particularly in his hand placement and extension. Alhassan excels in taking on blocks while maintaining leverage, allowing him to disengage and pursue the ball carrier skillfully.
- Aggression and Physicality: Aggression is one of his standout qualities. His ability to bring physicality to the position is evident through his gameplay, where he often flashes a strong punch at the point of attack (POA). His willingness to engage with blockers and his tenacity in gameplay project his readiness for the next level.
- Elite Length and Frame: Standing at 6'7", Alhassan possesses elite length, which is instrumental for a player in his position. His frame suggests the potential for weight gain and further development, which could transition him into a tackle position at the college level if needed.
- Mobility and Body Control: For a player of his size, Alhassan moves exceptionally well in space. His footwork and body control are commendable, which not only allow him to navigate through traffic but also aid in his agility and balance on the field.
Areas for Development:
While Alhassan displays numerous strengths, continued focus on developing his overall technical skills, such as pass-rushing techniques and conditioning, can enhance his game. Additionally, refining his awareness and decision-making during plays will further solidify his effectiveness on the field.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Alhassan Iddrisu is an exceptional talent with a bright future in football. His combination of physical attributes, skills, and competitive offers highlight his potential to excel at the next level. With dedication to his development, he has the opportunity to make an impact at a major college football program. Video Highlights: Alhassan Iddrisu's Hudl Profile