2026 Western PA Scouting Notebook

Let's take a dive into my scouting notebook starting off with the rising seniors of the 2026 class.    [player_tooltip player_id='386284' first='Semaj' last='Beals'] is the type of Quarterback you want on your team. Dynamic in everything he does, however I feel that Beals toughness in the pocket sticks out the most. Some would assume Beals is a lankier QB who's more of a run first type of guy, that's so far from the case. Beals stays in the pocket working progressions and most importantly, isn't phased by any pressure. Beals lights up defenses with his beautiful deep balls, while complimenting that aspect of his game with athletic capabilities when it is time for him to run. Beals is someone going into his senior season who is gonna be a real threat at the helm for Roman Catholic.     [player_tooltip player_id='402429' first='Abu' last='Fofana'] is a prototypical division 1 athlete. On the measurable side Fofana has a self reported 78 inch wingspan, to put into perspective the average NFL corners wingspan is 76 inches. On the field Fofana is a dynamic athlete, can play WR at all 3 spots, showing off long speed and good technique off the line. On the defensive side he's different and honestly flying under the radar from the bigger schools. Fofana has a distinct style favoring off zone and baiting QBs into throwing to his side, and when this happens 50/50 balls are erased and it's 80/20 in Fofanas favor. Fofana holds multiple D1 offers and should be someone who earns more into his senior summer.     [player_tooltip player_id='1591082' first='Lincoln' last='Hoke'] man, what a beast. The Pitt commit is one of the best players in the state period. Hoke is a bull in a china shop, quick, strong, and has a plethora of ways to win. Hoke gives me some Braden Fiske vibes when watching him, with his quick pace off the ball, and his powerful rip move that looks and acts more like the famous hump move. Hoke gave me the most joy watching because not only will he be a force in his senior season but will be a force and contributor at Pitt.     [player_tooltip player_id='1580750' first='Lucas' last='Shanafelt'] is a defensive chess piece. The Stanford commit is a perfect fit at the next level, as on film you see him do a variety of things. Whether Shanafelt is lined up at 4i, 5T, 9T, standup backer in the B gap, whatever it is he's making a play. Shanafelt is a guy with a relentless motor and great athleticism pairing for a great combo. Shanafelt is someone who also plays WR and makes a handful of plays on that side of the ball. I expect yet another great year out of Shanafelt.     Peter Bonnett is a gap scheme road-grader. Bonnett pops immediately with violence and great hand placement, clearing lanes and gaps with ease. Bonnett is a great athlete at the tackle spot and has a great feel for the game overall. When I watch him I get sort of a veteran and college ready vibe from Bonnett. I think Bonnett will be someone in the all-state race for the tackle spot in his senior year.

Let's take a dive into my scouting notebook starting off with the rising seniors of the 2026 class.