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2026 Defensive Risers: Who’s Ready to Make Noise This Season?

2026 Defensive Risers: Who’s Ready to Make Noise This Season?
Robert Davis
Robert Davis May 26, 2025 @ 11:45 AM
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In this article:

Jayden Spencer
Jayden Spencer 6'0" | 170 lbs | DB | 2026
CO
Peyton Evans
Peyton Evans 5'11" | 215 lbs | DL/OL | 2026
CO
Ethan Shirazi
Ethan Shirazi 6'0" | 180 lbs | DB/RB | 2026
CO
Nick Accardi III
Nick Accardi III 5'11" | 195 lbs | DB/LB | 2026
CO
Trajan Frasier
Trajan Frasier 6'0" | 195 lbs | RB/DB | 2026
CO
John Singleton Jr
John Singleton Jr 6'0" | 160 lbs | DB | 2026
CO
<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>If you are a new and looking to subscribe use the code: Davis30 for a discount off of your first subscription. Today we will be taking a look at some defenders who will be rising in the rankings and making a statement early on in the season. These are the players that I know will make a splash this season and who you will need to know immediately.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1679839"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68349ab079190"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Evans is a dominant presence in the trenches, known for his ability to clog the interior and disrupt running lanes. With 69 total tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss, he consistently sets the tone up front. His strength and leverage allow him to shed blocks in a hurry, while his technique in taking on double teams is next level with the way he is able to split it. If he builds on this year's production, expect his name to draw plenty of attention during the upcoming recruiting cycle.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1679844"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68349ab0791ed"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Spencer has a nose for the football and the athleticism to back it up. His instinctual play led to a scoop and score touchdown where he showcased elite vision and burst. Spencer plays sticky man coverage, staying in phase and timing his hands well to disrupt catches. He's also a physical tackler in space, contributing in run support. With his playmaking ability, Spencer is a breakout candidate for 2026.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["791359"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68349ab079238"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Accardi is a versatile defender who thrives in multiple roles. Whether dropping into coverage or dropping down into the box, he brings a physical edge and high football IQ. He diagnoses plays quickly, fights off blocks, and makes impactful stops in the run game. Accardi is expected to make a splash on the camp circuit with his athleticism and ability to transition in coverage. A true rising talent, he'll be a name to watch closely this offseason.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1538373"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68349ab079280"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Standing at 6'2”, Shirazi brings ideal size to the corner position. He plays with confidence and physicality at the line of scrimmage, using his length and speed to shadow receivers stride for stride. A player that is able to line up at multiple positions is able to contribute as a punter and wideout, Shirazi's all around skill set stands out. He reads the quarterback well and closes quickly on throws, excelling in trail technique and recovery speed. He's primed to climb the rankings in the months ahead.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["777383"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68349ab0792c7"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Frasier is a high motor safety with exceptional range and striking power. He flies downhill in run support and delivers punishing hits, often jarring the ball loose. In coverage, he keeps receivers in front and reads plays through both the receiver and quarterback. Also a talented running back, Frasier's offensive skills translate into vision and fluid movement on defense. He's a potential D1 impact player whose stock is rapidly rising.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["547627"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68349ab07930c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Singleton has emerged as one of the state's top cover corners, earning early attention from Division I programs. With blazing speed and sharp instincts, he recorded four interceptions last season while anchoring his secondary. Singleton also supports well in the run game, tallying 25 tackles and 2 tackles for loss. He brings a complete skill set to the position and is poised to elevate his game and profile even further this fall.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->

If you are a new and looking to subscribe use the code: Davis30 for a discount off of your first subscription. Today we will be taking a look at some defenders who will be rising in the rankings and making a statement early on in the season. These are the players that I know will make a splash this season and who you will need to know immediately.

Peyton Evans

Peyton Evans

CO
DL/OL
HEIGHT 5'11"
WEIGHT 215
POS DL/OL
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Peyton
Evans DL/OL
Class
2026
Height
5'11"
Weight
215
HS
Berthoud
|
CO
2026 Defensive Risers: Who’s Ready to Make Noise This Season?
Evans is a dominant presence in the trenches, known for his ability to clog the interior and disrupt...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Peyton Evans

Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Berthoud
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Jayden Spencer

Jayden Spencer

CO
DB
HEIGHT 6'0"
WEIGHT 170
POS DB
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Jayden
Spencer DB
Class
2026
Height
6'0"
Weight
170
HS
Cherry Creek
|
CO
2026 Defensive Risers: Who’s Ready to Make Noise This Season?
Spencer has a nose for the football and the athleticism to back it up. His instinctual play led...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Jayden Spencer

Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Cherry Creek
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Nick Accardi III

Nick Accardi III

CO
DB/LB
HEIGHT 5'11"
WEIGHT 195
POS DB/LB
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Nick
Accardi III DB/LB
Class
2026
Height
5'11"
Weight
195
HS
Mullen
|
CO
2026 Defensive Risers: Who’s Ready to Make Noise This Season?
Accardi is a versatile defender who thrives in multiple roles. Whether dropping into coverage or dropping down into...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Nick Accardi III

Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Mullen
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Ethan Shirazi

Ethan Shirazi

CO
DB/RB
HEIGHT 6'0"
WEIGHT 180
POS DB/RB
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Ethan
Shirazi DB/RB
Class
2026
Height
6'0"
Weight
180
HS
Ralston Valley
|
CO
2026 Defensive Risers: Who’s Ready to Make Noise This Season?
Standing at 6’2”, Shirazi brings ideal size to the corner position. He plays with confidence and physicality at...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Ethan Shirazi

Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Ralston Valley
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Princeton
Trajan Frasier

Trajan Frasier

CO
RB/DB
HEIGHT 6'0"
WEIGHT 195
POS RB/DB
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Trajan
Frasier RB/DB
Class
2026
Height
6'0"
Weight
195
HS
Arapahoe
|
CO
2026 Defensive Risers: Who’s Ready to Make Noise This Season?
Frasier is a high motor safety with exceptional range and striking power. He flies downhill in run support...
Written by Robert Davis
Princeton
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Trajan Frasier

Instagram Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Arapahoe
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

John Singleton Jr

John Singleton Jr

CO
DB
HEIGHT 6'0"
WEIGHT 160
POS DB
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
John
Singleton Jr DB
Class
2026
Height
6'0"
Weight
160
HS
Broomfield
|
CO
2026 Defensive Risers: Who’s Ready to Make Noise This Season?
Singleton has emerged as one of the state’s top cover corners, earning early attention from Division I programs....
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

John Singleton Jr

Instagram Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Broomfield
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

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Rankings

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