High Ceiling Central Valley 2026 Prospects

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">In-depth evaluations of the 2026 central valley prospects that possess good upside and potential for the D1 level.</h2>    Franklin is a smooth and productive passer whose skillset checks a lot of boxes for the D1 level. 6'3” 175 lbs. he's got good length and extension on his throws to get added velocity. Strong ball placement skills to all three depths, he's got great touch to layer the ball over second level defenders. He's a balanced thrower that shows good fluidity and rhythm from his drop back to his delivery aiding his accuracy. Good athleticism to escape pressure and extend the play, moving the pocket and creating second chance throwing lanes. Flashes good anticipation on timing routes with the ability to land and throw hitting his target as they come out of the break. Threw for almost 2,400 yards with 26 touchdowns completing 62% on 240 attempts as a junior. Holds an offer from Montana State with interest from several other D1 programs.      Pree is a high-ceiling wideout with the ability to impact a game at every level of the field. 6'2” 175 lbs. with good straight line speed that allows him to push vertically and make explosive plays after the catch. Does a great job feeling coverage and creating smart leverage to open up a throwing window for the QB. Consistent and reliable with his hands, he attacks the ball in the air and shows the ability to adjust to off-target throws. Will go up and compete for the ball at the high point and can also fight through contact to be strong at the catch point. Flashes after the catch where he can turn short receptions into long gains with deceptive speed and good strength at the POA to break tackles. Finished the 2024 season with 27 receptions for 684 yards and eight touchdowns highlighted by a 220 yard performance with two touchdowns on just four receptions against Buhach Colony. Offered by Montana State but should see a bump in recruitment going into his senior year.      Meeks is an explosive two-way playmaker for Central Catholic at RB and DB. Possesses a solid and well-built frame at 6'2” 195 lbs. that could transition well to multiple positions at the college level. At RB, he's got natural ball carrier instincts with good vision to find running lanes and hit the cutback. He accelerates to top speed quickly once through the first level showing good sustained long speed once in space. Flashes quick lateral movement and cut ability to make defenders miss in both tight spaces and the open field. Aggressive when he hits running lanes and does a good job getting north and south early on in the play. A stronger runner that can absorb or deliver contact while maintain good leg drive and forward momentum. Ranked just outside the top 100 overall while collecting three offers thus far from Nevada, Washington State, and San Diego State.      Holland is a dynamic athlete that can be a game changer in all three phases. 6'1” 160 lbs. he shows excellent fluidity and natural athleticism from his change of direction, short area acceleration, and all around game speed. Flashes high level ball judgement skills and body control to track it in the air and play it aggressively at the catch point. Good burst gives him a great drive phase off the LOS at receiver and allows him to recover and close separation in coverage. Like his attacking playing style on defense, he flies around making plays in both coverage and run support. Fills the alley with intent and brings strong contact at the POA. Recruitment is off to a solid start with four D1 offers coming in from Colorado State, Montana State, NAU, and San Jose State but his versatility should boost his interest going forward.      <a>Barajas is one of the more under recruited prospects in the Central Valley. At 6'1” 225 lbs. he's an active defender with a great nose for the football. Strong and powerful frame allows him to deliver heavy contact on every play whether he's taking on blockers or tackling a ball carrier. Plays with high energy flying to the football with a downhill trigger and violent finish. Diagnoses plays quickly while taking efficient angles of pursuit to close space. Proves he can be a three down defender with his abilities in coverage and as a run filler. Relentless in pursuit, he chases hard and can track down the ball to all areas of the field. Diagnoses plays quickly and makes a ton of plays at or behind the LOS. No offers yet, but he's a pure football player that deserves more recruiting attention.</a>