The Next Wave: Standout Freshmen Turning Heads

Photo: Sofia Jordan

Eric Bergman May 25, 2025 @ 01:05 PM

[player_tooltip player_id='975570' first='Darieon' last='Prescott'] – Class of 2028 – Bolingbrook – DE – 6'6” 225 lbs [player_tooltip player_id='975570' first='Darieon' last='Prescott'] is a freakishly athletic edge rusher with rare physical tools. At 6-foot-6 and 225 pounds, he's already an imposing presence off the edge. He combines elite size with natural twitch, bend, and explosiveness that allow him to consistently pressure quarterbacks. Prescott holds multiple Division I offers already and continues to turn heads with each performance. He's on track to become one of the top defensive end prospects in the nation before his high school career is over.   [player_tooltip player_id='1682038' first='Jordan' last='Moore'] – Class of 2028 – St. Francis High School – ATH – 6'3” 175 lbs [player_tooltip player_id='1682038' first='Jordan' last='Moore'] is a long, rangy athlete with standout ball skills and closing speed. At 6-foot-3, his length allows him to blanket receivers in coverage and make plays most corners can't reach. He has shown elite potential in the secondary, using his size and fluid movement to lock down opposing wideouts. Moore projects as a high-level defensive back with the athleticism to contribute on both sides of the ball. His upside is off the charts, and his name will be one to know in the coming years.   [player_tooltip player_id='1682057' first='Brayden' last='Weaver'] – Class of 2028 – Tuscola High School – OL – 6'5” 270 lbs [player_tooltip player_id='1682057' first='Brayden' last='Weaver'] is a big-bodied offensive tackle with long arms and a strong physical presence up front. At 6-foot-5, 270 pounds, he already looks the part of a college lineman with room to continue developing. Weaver plays with a physical edge and is not afraid to finish blocks with authority. Though still a raw prospect, his size, strength, and upside make him one of the more intriguing young linemen in the state. As he continues to refine his technique, Weaver has all the tools to become a dominant force in the trenches.   Roy Magaña Jr – Class of 2028 – Marmion Academy – QB – 6'2” 185 lbs Roy Magaña Jr. stepped in as Marmion Academy's starting quarterback late in the season and immediately made an impact. He has a live arm and can stretch the field with velocity and touch on deep throws. Magaña shows impressive poise for a young signal-caller and has the tools to grow into a true leader under center. With a full offseason ahead and more reps coming, he's primed for a breakout year. Expect him to become one of the top quarterback names in the 2028 class.

Darieon Prescott Darieon Prescott 6'6" | 225 lbs | EDGE Bolingbrook | 2028 State IL – Class of 2028 – Bolingbrook – DE – 6'6” 225 lbs
Darieon Prescott Darieon Prescott 6'6" | 225 lbs | EDGE Bolingbrook | 2028 State IL is a freakishly athletic edge rusher with rare physical tools. At 6-foot-6 and 225 pounds, he's already an imposing presence off the edge. He combines elite size with natural twitch, bend, and explosiveness that allow him to consistently pressure quarterbacks. Prescott holds multiple Division I offers already and continues to turn heads with each performance. He's on track to become one of the top defensive end prospects in the nation before his high school career is over.