2026 Biggest Rankings Risers

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">In-depth evaluations of the 2026 prospects making significant leaps in the latest rankings update. </h2>    Joyner has been one of the state's fast rising recruits this offseason pulling in 15 D1 offers. Checks all the boxes in terms of physical skillset and measurements at 6'4” 305 lbs. with an 81 inch wingspan. He's a dominant presence up front playing with a physical edge while generating consistent knock-back at the LOS. His ability to stay square and strike within his frame allows him to maintain control and drive defenders off the ball. Strong initial punch and heavy hands give him the ability to disrupt and displace opponents. In pass protection, he effectively uses his length to neutralize rushes showing active hands and the ability to reset and anchor. A standout on a talent-rich Williams Field offensive line who will continue to climb recruiting boards.      Stone is a lockdown corner with excellent size, length, and athleticism for the position at 6'2” 200 lbs. In addition to his natural ability and coverage instincts he plays with great technique and footwork from his backpedal to his transition. He's patient and efficient with his movement while also being extremely physical using his length to his advantage to move receivers off their line. Like the fluidity he shows in his transition and coming out of his breaks, accelerating out to close space. Flashes high level route recognition skills and triggers quickly and decisively to put himself in position to play the ball in the air. Possesses the speed and lateral quickness to stay attached and cover the whole field in man coverage. Currently holds nine D1 offers but none are from P4 programs, expect that to change as he showcases his ability and skillset.      Recruitment has been steady since the start of the year now holding five offers including D1 programs Southern Mississippi, Western Kentucky, and most recently Sacramento State. 5'11” 175 lbs. he's a great cover corner using fluid athleticism and clean footwork. Shows good all-around speed and movement skills for the position flashing good burst in the short area, smooth change of direction, and the long speed to cover vertically. He's instinctual in coverage displaying good route recognition and anticipation to make early breaks on the football. Great ability to stay in phase and recover to minimize separation and disrupt throwing lanes. Plays through the hands at the catch point and doesn't give up any easy receptions forcing the receiver to make a tough play.      Gaines is a physical, explosive ball carrier who blends power and speed to be productive. Tough to bring down with a strong 5'11” 210 lb. frame that consistently breaks tackles. He runs hard downhill showing plus vision, balance, and spatial awareness to work to space. Great ability to run through first contact at the LOS and flashes good short area burst at the second level. He's elusive using sudden cuts and accelerating out of them while also showing good start/stop speed to avoid defenders in tight spaces. Transferred in from Indiana and after sitting his first games, he immediately became a weapon for Basha and showed his dynamic skillset and D1 ability. Most recently offered by UNLV in addition to his offers from San Diego State, NAU, and Montana.      Maxey kicked off his recruitment this month with four D1 offers coming in the last two weeks from Northern Arizona, Weber State, and Grambling State. 6'7” 285 lbs. he's got the ideal frame while also being a violent force at the POA. Looks to finish every block showing that he can strike with power and overwhelm opponents with his size/strength. His long frame and natural leverage give him a dominant edge in both the run game and pass protection. Drives defenders out of the play with good hand placement and the ability to lock on while driving his feet through contact. In pass sets, he uses his reach to his advantage while also displaying good foot quickness for his size that allows him to mirror and recover against edge defenders. Look for him to continue to shoot up college recruiting boards.