Rising Fast: 2026 Prospects Elevating Their Profiles

Shannon Jordan May 22, 2025 @ 11:43 AM

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.   Ryan Davis, OLB – Hagerty High   6'0", 195 lbs   Evaluation: Davis is a rangy outside linebacker who excels at diagnosing plays and triggering downhill. He's a fluid mover in space with sideline-to-sideline range and plays faster than he tests. His ability to shed blocks and finish in the open field shows he has real instincts, not just athleticism. Clean form tackler with high motor and leadership traits. Could thrive as a WILL or in a 4-2-5 scheme as a hybrid space backer.   [player_tooltip player_id='1636837' first='Caleb' last='Alkema'], LB/WR – North Florida Christian   6'0", 185 lbs   Evaluation: Alkema brings twitch and lateral quickness, showing great pop in his short time on the field last fall. While still a bit lean for the box, his versatility and WR experience suggest strong hips and change-of-direction. He plays fast and with urgency, flashing on tape in the limited snaps available. With added mass and a healthy senior season, he could emerge as a coverage-first backer, top receiver or nickel hybrid at the next level.   [player_tooltip player_id='1251762' first='Silas' last='Jones'] Jr., LB – Sarasota High   6'3", 220 lbs   Evaluation: Jones is a big, physical inside linebacker who fits the mold of a MIKE or strongside backer at the next level. He plays with great pad level, delivers strikes at the point of contact, and closes with authority. Flashes some hip fluidity in coverage and can carry tight ends up the seam or redirect backs in the flats. Frame suggests he could carry 230+ comfortably. FBS frame with FCS floor — power five upside if he puts it all together.   [player_tooltip player_id='928365' first='Ethan' last='Barosela'], LB/DE – Christopher Columbus High   6'1", 215 lbs   Evaluation: Barosela is a hybrid edge defender who brings consistent pressure off the edge. He plays with heavy hands, good bend, and understands leverage. While he's not a true twitchy speed rusher, he compensates with strong technique and effort. Can reduce inside on passing downs or play OLB in a 3-4 look. High football IQ and effort guy with a strong upper body and motor. Also shows leadership off the field with elite academics.   Matthew Madley, LB/RB/SS – Sunlake High   6'1", 215 lbs   Evaluation: Madley is a rugged, position-versatile defender who can line up at all three levels. As a linebacker, he triggers well and plays with downhill intent. His time as a safety shows up in his coverage instincts and ability to mirror backs or TEs. Physical through contact and dependable in open-field situations. Scheme-versatile and could be a strong fit for a 4-2-5 or as an in-the-box safety at the FCS/FBS level. Doesn't have elite top-end speed but makes up for it with instincts and physicality.

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.