Camp Kings: TN 2026 Recruits Who Have Stood Out

This article will spotlight some of the top prospects from the class of 2026 who have been turning heads during the camp circuit. As camp season continues, it's becoming clear that this class is loaded with talent—but a few standout performers are beginning to separate themselves from the pack. These rising stars are not only making a name for themselves with strong showings in drills, one-on-ones, and testing, but they're also catching the attention of college recruiters and national scouts alike. Whether they're aiming to earn their first offers or elevate their stock on a broader stage, this group of athletes is making a serious impact—and their performances are too impressive to ignore.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='222957' first='Briggs' last='Cherry'] - Baylor (QB)</h2>   The Louisville commit has rapidly elevated his profile this camp season, emerging as one of the top quarterback names in the 2026 class. His consistent performances earned him an invitation to the prestigious Elite 11 Finals—widely regarded as the premier quarterback camp in the country. Not only did he hold his own against some of the nation's best, but he also won the Accuracy Challenge, a testament to his precision and poise under pressure. Several national outlets recognized him as a Top 10 performer at the event, further validating his rise as a legitimate national recruit.   As his stock continues to climb, it's clear that he belongs in conversations with the elite QBs in the country. With Louisville head coach Jeff Brohm—a known quarterback developer—at the helm, the Cardinals have every reason to be excited. Brohm's offensive mind and QB expertise make Louisville an ideal landing spot, and there's no doubt he'll be eager to get Briggs on campus as soon as possible. The future is bright, and Briggs is proving week after week that he's ready for the national stage.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='834613' first='Robert' last='Bailey'] - Shelbyville Christian (RB)</h2>   This do-it-all running back is a name that should be firmly on college radars heading into the fall. Standing at 5'11", 215 pounds, he brings an impressive combination of size, speed, and physicality to the position. His frame allows him to run through contact, while his burst and agility make him a threat in space—an ideal modern back. Currently holding offers from Jacksonville State, Eastern Kentucky, and Austin Peay, his recruitment is expected to gain serious momentum once more programs get a chance to see him in live action.   I had the opportunity to watch him during 7-on-7 play this camp season, and he immediately stood out. Whether lined up in the backfield, split out wide, or even making plays on defense, he consistently found ways to impact the game. What separates him is his versatility and team-first mentality—he's the kind of player who does whatever is needed to help his squad win. Whether it's grinding out tough yards, catching passes, or locking down opponents in coverage, he continues to prove he's more than just a solid prospect—he's a game-changer waiting to be discovered. Expect his offer sheet to expand quickly once the pads come on this fall.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1422897' first='Tyler' last='Thompson'] - Marshall County (QB)</h2>   The reigning 4A Mr. Football winner has had an impressive offseason—and there's every reason to believe that momentum will carry straight into the fall. This quarterback has all the tools to be a major steal for any Group of Five or FCS program still searching for their signal-caller. A true dual-threat, he combines high-level athleticism with a live arm that can push the ball downfield with ease. His production speaks for itself, earning him top honors in his classification during the regular season. At 6'1”, 180 pounds, he's capable of hurting defenses with his legs or his arm, showing poise in the pocket and the ability to make throws to all three levels.   I had the chance to watch him compete at a camp in Florida, and he more than lived up to the hype. He was consistently one of the top performers and ultimately earned Prep Redzone Camp MVP honors for his accuracy, leadership, and playmaking ability. Beyond his physical tools, he's also a high-IQ player who clearly understands the game and makes smart decisions under pressure. It's surprising that his recruitment hasn't taken off yet, but that won't last long. College coaches looking for a dynamic, intelligent, and battle-tested quarterback should take notice—this is a prospect who can elevate a program from day one. (pictured below)   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">AJ Westfield - Bradley Central (DL)</h2>   The big defensive lineman has been one of the more impressive trench players on the camp circuit this summer—and college coaches are taking notice. His performances have already started to pay off, with a growing offer list that now includes programs like Wake Forest. At 6'3", 270 pounds, he's a force on the interior line, combining size, strength, and athleticism. He brings a violent initial punch, a quick first step off the snap, and the ability to disrupt plays before they develop. While his size jumps out immediately, what makes him stand out is his polish—he plays with technique, leverage, and motor.   Following a coaching change at his previous school, he's now transferred to Bradley Central, where he's expected to be a major difference-maker this fall. With another full season to showcase his skillset in a new system, look for him to continue climbing up recruiting boards. His dominance in camp settings has already laid the groundwork, and if his play continues on the same trajectory, his offer list will only grow. This is a prospect with both the physical tools and the refined game to make a big impact at the next level.   <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/01/67-Tyler-Thompson-rotated-e1736532770582.jpg?w=833" alt="" class="wp-image-1598733" /></figure>

This article will spotlight some of the top prospects from the class of 2026 who have been turning heads during the camp circuit. As camp season continues, it's becoming clear that this class is loaded with talent—but a few standout performers are beginning to separate themselves from the pack. These rising stars are not only making a name for themselves with strong showings in drills, one-on-ones, and testing, but they're also catching the attention of college recruiters and national scouts alike. Whether they're aiming to earn their first offers or elevate their stock on a broader stage, this group of athletes is making a serious impact—and their performances are too impressive to ignore.