2026s Unranked and on the rise in Austin

High school football in Austin, Texas, has quietly transformed from an overlooked scene into one of the most competitive and talent-rich areas in the state. Austin's high school programs are carving out their own legacy. Once considered a secondary market behind Dallas and Houston, the capital city is now producing elite talent, filling college rosters, and making deep playoff runs year after year. Players like Garrett Wilson, Baker Mayfield , Deuce Vaughn , and famous starting clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik. Here some new names to hear about soon:    Mason Lastor might not be the biggest player on the field at 5'11", 205 pounds, but he makes sure his presence is felt on every snap. A true throwback linebacker with modern versatility, Mason plays both inside and outside linebacker with relentless energy and instincts. He's a tackling machine with a nose for the football, constantly flying around the field and making plays sideline to sideline. What sets Mason apart is his feel for the game he diagnoses plays quickly, fills gaps with authority, and brings a physical edge that sets the tone for his defense. His motor never stops and toughness are unmatched. Whether it's stuffing the run, dropping into coverage, or bringing pressure off the edge, Mason does it all and does it at fast pace.      Justin Moore, standing at 5'11 and 186 pounds, has a different gear once he gets into the open field. With a burst of speed that jumps off the screen, Moore hits holes with explosiveness and has the ability to make defenders miss or just blow right past them. What's most exciting about watching Justin is his breakaway speed and natural elusiveness in space. He's a true scat back with big-play potential, but with a little added size, he has the tools to become a reliable every-down back. Although he wasn't the starter for Vandegrift this past season, that could change quickly as he eyes a breakout role this fall. With his speed, vision, and ability to create chunk plays, Justin Moore is a name to watch heading into the 2025 season.      Pierce Atkins, a senior defensive lineman andfrom Lake Travis High School in Austin, Texas, shows promise on film. When evaluating him, key traits to look for include his explosiveness off the line how quickly he reacts at the snap and disrupts plays early. Strength with his legs to fight with offensive lineman and how well he controls blockers using hand placement and pad level. His agility and footwork should allow him to move laterally and change direction efficiently, especially in pursuit or when shedding blocks. Tackling technique is another important factor he should consistently wrap up and finish plays with authority. Atkins finish with 40 assits tackles and 44 tackles.      Dylan Brasher is a 6'2" middle linebacker with an athletic, well-built frame and a strong, sturdy base. Initially projected as a potential edge defender, he has firmly established himself as a true off-ball linebacker capable of thriving in multiple defensive schemes. Brasher stands out as a high-motor, high-energy player who embraces contact and consistently delivers physical play. His verified athleticism translates to impressive range in pursuit, allowing him to make a high volume of athletic plays all over the field. With his versatility, toughness, and relentless motor, he projects well at the next level as a dynamic and dependable linebacker.      At 5'11", 175 pounds, is a dynamic and instinctive defensive back with true ball-hawking ability. He excels in man coverage, showing quick feet, fluid hips, and the ability to mirror receivers with confidence and control. Guinn also demonstrates strong awareness and discipline in zone, reading quarterbacks well and breaking on the ball with timing and aggression. His versatility is a major asset he can line up outside, play over the slot as a nickel, and contribute in a variety of coverage schemes. Despite his leaner frame, Guinn competes with physicality and isn't afraid to come downhill and support the run. With his coverage skills, range, and positional flexibility, he projects as a valuable defensive back who can impact the game in multiple ways. He is a ballhawk!!

High school football in Austin, Texas, has quietly transformed from an overlooked scene into one of the most competitive and talent-rich areas in the state. Austin's high school programs are carving out their own legacy. Once considered a secondary market behind Dallas and Houston, the capital city is now producing elite talent, filling college rosters, and making deep playoff runs year after year. Players like Garrett Wilson, Baker Mayfield , Deuce Vaughn , and famous starting clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik. Here some new names to hear about soon: