Spring Rankings Update: 2026 IDL New Additions

Now in our second week of content covering our spring rankings update for the 2026 class, we're focused on the defensive side of the ball. We only recently separated edge rushers and interior defensive linemen, but it's been a helpful change and we added several new interior defensive linemen to the rankings.   After looking at the <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2025/05/spring-stock-risers-2026-idl-report/">IDL stock-risers</a>, we're looking at seven new additions.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">2026 IDL New Additions</h2>    Nelin is hot on the recruiting trail, having picked up multiple FCS offers this month. He has elite length on the inside, but still plays low and holds up well at the line, despite likely needing to add some weight. The upside is huge here and I'm not convinced Nelin ends up at the FCS level, with plenty of FBS schools needing big interior defenders.     Burns is an elite run defender, one of the best in the entire state. But that compliment doesn't mean he can't rush the passer. The raw numbers aren't there yet, but he's flashed an emerging pass-rushing move set. Physically, he's college-ready and his success in the classroom means he's an intriguing option for Ivy and Pioneer League teams, in addition to other FCS schools around the country.     Messick not only has excellent speed and lateral quickness, but he knows how to use those traits well. He's rarely moving at one speed. Rather, he's patient when engaging offensive linemen and then knows when to fire off with a rip or swim move. I'd like to see him gain a bit more strength, but I really like what I've seen from him so far.     Not only does Holmes control the line of scrimmage and force runs away from their intended holes, but he displays the quickness to get off blocks and actually make plays. He's still developing a pass-rushing set, difficult when playing run-heavy teams, but the physical tools and run-game discipline are there for the talented Bessemer City player.     Edmundson isn't the biggest interior lineman you'll find, but he excels at shooting gaps and is strong enough to hold up at the point of attack. While there are more highly-recruited players along Clayton's defensive line, Edmundson is one of the guys who makes the defense go as he eats blocks and gives his linebackers space to work.     Grier has performed well in camp settings this spring and he recently earned an offer from Hampden-Sydney. He's a smart player who is always in control, able to change directions to chase after ball-carriers or even blow up screens. He never overcommits, maintaining gap integrity, a trait his teammates and coaches love.     Hayes' strength is clearly on display in his highlight tape as there are multiple instances where he tosses aside linemen to make plays in the backfield. He's a strong run defender and controls the line of scrimmage, forcing runs away from their intended holes and still having the quickness to make some tackles himself. The flashes are there, if he can become a bit more consistent, he's going to have the chance to move far up our rankings.

Now in our second week of content covering our spring rankings update for the 2026 class, we're focused on the defensive side of the ball. We only recently separated edge rushers and interior defensive linemen, but it's been a helpful change and we added several new interior defensive linemen to the rankings.