Risers Report: 2026 Prospects Trending Upward

Florida has long been a hotbed of high school football talent. Annually, Florida produces some of the nation's top prospects. Florida athletes are known for their speed, agility, and raw athleticism. These prospects have made names for themselves and have caught the attention of coaches and scouts at the collegiate level. With the 2025 season getting closer, we're looking for players whose stock is rising in the state.   These players are all talented and have college-level abilities. Some of these players have a few offers, but all of them have the ability to play college football at some level.   There are some big-time, highly rated prospects and several sleeper prospects who should all be getting looks for the next level. This list is full of stud prospects.   Prep Redzone Florida will always support every player on their journey to playing college football.   [player_tooltip player_id='1640211' first='Roderick' last='Mathieu'], LB – Central High   Height/Weight: 6'1", 210 lbs   Evaluation: Mathieu is a physical, downhill linebacker who plays with a relentless motor. At 6'1", 210 with a 315-pound bench, he brings real pop on contact and sets the tone defensively. His strength and closing speed make him a force in run support, while his GPA shows he handles responsibilities in the classroom with the same discipline. Mathieu plays with aggression, processes quickly, and rarely misses tackles when he gets his hands on a ball carrier. He fits the mold of a MIKE linebacker who can thrive in early-down situations and bring leadership to a front seven.   [player_tooltip player_id='1582551' first='Bret' last='Marinko'], LB – Cypress Creek High   Height/Weight: 6'0", 180 lbs   Evaluation: Marinko is an all-around athlete who flies to the football and consistently produces. His 4.6 speed jumps out on film—he covers ground quickly and closes in a flash. As a 3-sport athlete, he brings valuable explosiveness and coordination, translating well into space and pursuit situations. Though lighter than most interior linebackers, his instincts, foot speed, and leadership (led team in tackles) help him consistently get to the ball. Coaches looking for a rangy, high-upside WILL linebacker or even a rover/safety hybrid should take notice.   [player_tooltip player_id='283746' first='Brian' last='Mapp'], Edge/TE – Lakeland High   Height/Weight: 6'1", 210 lbs   Evaluation: Mapp is a dynamic, two-way playmaker who flashes real explosion off the edge. His 13 tackles for loss are a testament to his ability to penetrate and win with first-step quickness. On offense, he's a vertical threat at tight end, averaging nearly 28 yards per catch, and shows reliable hands and athleticism after the grab. His versatility gives him major upside—whether as a hybrid edge rusher, an athletic linebacker in a 3-4, or even as a flex TE. His instincts and play speed make him a mismatch in multiple roles.   [player_tooltip player_id='212355' first='Noah' last='Maddox'], LB – Boone High   Height/Weight: 6'0", 220 lbs   Evaluation: Maddox is a polished, high-IQ linebacker who plays with excellent pad level and technique. He diagnoses plays quickly and brings stopping power when meeting ball carriers. The All-District honor speaks to how well he plays within structure, while the 4.2 GPA underlines his attention to detail and discipline. Maddox may not blow up the stat sheet with splash plays, but he's a reliable tackler and communicator who anchors a defense. His frame, IQ, and productivity make him an ideal fit in schemes looking for steady, assignment-sound backers.   [player_tooltip player_id='1640203' first='Dominic' last='Luchina'], LB/TE – Dr. Joaquin Garcia High   Height/Weight: 5'11", 200 lbs   Evaluation: Luchina is a heady, physical defender who brings energy and toughness every snap. His 4.9 GPA is elite, and that cerebral approach carries over to his game. He diagnoses plays with ease, wraps up cleanly, and consistently finds himself in the right spot. As a multi-sport athlete, he brings body control and competitiveness that show up in traffic. Whether lining up in the box or occasionally shading out in coverage, Luchina plays fast and smart. With his academics and versatility, he's a great target for academic-focused programs or schools that value multi-position talent.

Florida has long been a hotbed of high school football talent. Annually, Florida produces some of the nation's top prospects. Florida athletes are known for their speed, agility, and raw athleticism. These prospects have made names for themselves and have caught the attention of coaches and scouts at the collegiate level. With the 2025 season getting closer, we're looking for players whose stock is rising in the state.