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<p>The latest edition of the Prep Redzone Illinois Class of 2026 has been unveiled. Here we dive into the top players at each position. Today we look at <strong>2026 Rankings Update: Top Quarterbacks</strong>!</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='800191' first='Jonas' last='Williams'] (Lincoln Way East)</strong></p>
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<p>Williams is the clear cut top quarterback in the class. He is THAT DUDE! This past year he led Lincoln Way East to a 12-1 record while throwing for 2,926 yards and 42 passing touchdowns. On the ground he racked up 400 yards and 7 more scores. He is a big time athlete that can beat you equally with his arm and legs. Absolutely rocket arm with the ball exploding out of his hand. Hits his pass catchers in stride where they can get YAC. Bangs it in there against the defense on skinny post routes and crosses over the middle throwing with anticipation. Very refined passer that has plus footwork and is balanced with his weight in the pocket. Layers it over defenders when he needs to. Outstanding thrower on the run that can make defensive lineman look silly chasing him before letting one rip down field. Such a naturally gifted combination of passer and athlete. Strong and explosive runner that can avoid defenders rushing him along with running right past them when in the open field.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='212320' first='Owen' last='Lansu'] (Downers Grove North)</strong></p>
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<p>Lansu is one of the best quarterbacks in the state of Illinois. The Minnesota Gophers commit stands at 6'2" with a strong arm and crisp mechanics. Such a quick and concise release. Really like his processing ability reading the defense and making snap decisions with the ball. He has the zip and arm strength to throw it effectively to every level. Levels the ball very well to all three levels. Throws it over linebackers on intermediate routes in tight spaces. Puts touch and accuracy on throws to the perimeter. Good athlete that can throw well on the move. Should be a good starting QB in the Big 10.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='499431' first='Johnny' last='O'Brien'] (Fremd)</strong></p>
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<p>O'Brien is a 6'2" 190 pound lefty quarterback that is committed to Northwestern. One of the best quarterbacks in the state. O'Brien has a great deep ball as he hits his back foot and drops the ball in a bucket. Really like how he will stand in vs pressure to get the throw off against pressure. Plays with good rhythm and pocket presence. Zip and timing on his intermediate passes and layers throws well. Excellent footwork in the pocket. Solid throwing rolling out either way.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1669962' first='Mason' last='Atkins'] (West Aurora)</strong></p>
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<p>Atkins emerged as a 6'3" 205 pound quarterback during his junior season. You have to like the size and pocket presence from the West Aurora standout. Quick release and has zip on short and intermediate routes. Can also really drive the ball downfield dropping it in a bucket. Accurate throwing on the run especially going to his right.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='801994' first='CJ' last='Gray'] (Brother Rice)</strong></p>
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<p>Gray is a 6'0" 190 pound signal caller that plays with homerun speed. He is a high level athlete that has the speed and acceleration to go the distance. As a passer he throws well on the move. Puts his full body into throws out of the pocket. Touch and accuracy on the deep ball dropping it in the bucket. Good arm strength, can throw on the run, and layers it well.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1627970' first='Steven' last='Armbruster'] (St. Rita)</strong></p>
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<p>Armbruster put together a very nice junior season. The 6'0" 180 pound passer is very effective with play action pass game. Can push the ball down the field when he hits his back foot. What we also liked was his mobility being able to let it rip when on the move. Solid scrambler. In the pocket he has balanced footwork and good weight distribution. Excellent pocket presence and hits passes from all three levels. Processes things well as they are happening live.</p>
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The latest edition of the Prep Redzone Illinois Class of 2026 has been unveiled. Here we dive into the top players at each position. Today we look at 2026 Rankings Update: Top Quarterbacks!
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