Florida’s Finest: Top Class 1A Kickers in the Class of 2026

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Class 1A's Top Returning Kickers (Class of 2026)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Florida has always been a pipeline for elite high school football talent—and that includes special teams. Each year, the Sunshine State produces some of the top kicking prospects in the nation, and Class 1A is no exception. Known for their precision, consistency, and leg strength, these returning kickers from the 2026 class have already proven they can deliver under pressure.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As the 2025 season approaches, this group of kickers stands out as some of the best in the state at their position. While a few already hold college interest or offers, every one of them has the skill set to compete at the next level.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>From well-known names to under-the-radar talents, this list features a mix of high-upside prospects who deserve serious attention from college programs. Whether it's a booming field goal, a clutch PAT, or a perfectly placed kickoff, these specialists make a big impact in the smallest classification.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>At Prep Redzone Florida, we're committed to shining a spotlight on every player with next-level potential—because every kick matters when you're chasing college football dreams.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>1. Gabriel Suarez – K – Westminster Christian</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>5'7", 165 lbs | 3.8 GPA</em></strong><br><strong><em>Stats: 10-11 FG (Long: 33), 10-10 PAT</em></strong><br><strong><em>Multi-sport: Soccer</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Evaluation: Suarez is a highly consistent short-range kicker with a compact build and smooth technique. His soccer background shows in his footwork and control, allowing him to consistently strike clean kicks. Though his long is 33 yards, he's nearly automatic inside 40 and could extend his range with added leg strength. Shows strong mental focus and fundamentals. Projects well as a reliable high-percentage kicker at the next level, especially as he develops more power.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>2. Conner Byrnes – K – St. Andrew's School</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>5'9", 185 lbs</em></strong><br><strong><em>Stats: 7-9 FG (Long: 41), 24-25 PAT</em></strong><br><strong><em>Multi-sport: Lacrosse</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Evaluation: Byrnes combines power and balance with a muscular frame. He's shown he can hit over 40 yards with consistency and has the form to develop into a college-level kicker. His lacrosse background speaks to his athleticism and leg drive. His strike point is clean, and his accuracy under pressure is a plus. With more reps and specialty training, he could emerge as a top sleeper in this class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>3. Will Stewart – K – Melbourne Central Catholic</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>6'4", 180 lbs | 3.7 GPA</em></strong><br><strong><em>Stats: 7-11 FG (Long: 47), 42-46 PAT, 18/50 touchbacks (Long: 67)</em></strong><br><strong><em>Rating: 4.5 Stars (Kohl's Southern Showcase)</em></strong><br><strong><em>Offer: Warner University</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Evaluation: Stewart brings elite size for a kicker with one of the strongest legs in the region. With a 67-yard long on kickoffs and consistent touchback production, he's already handling college-level distances. His frame allows for power and potential for punting or KO duties too. The 4.5-star Kohl's rating and current offer reinforce his high ceiling. Still developing accuracy, but upside is very high. Pro-style specialist.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>4. [player_tooltip player_id='1133500' first='Noah' last='Sidan'] – K – Chaminade-Madonna High</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>5'11", 175 lbs</em></strong><br><strong><em>Stats: 6-8 FG (Long: 33), 91-92 PAT</em></strong><br><strong><em>Rating: #1 Kicker in 2026 Class by Kornblue Kicking</em></strong><br><strong><em>Offer: FIU (D1)</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Evaluation: Sidan is one of the most polished young kickers in the country, with elite trajectory and repeatable mechanics. Though his current long is 33, his form and consistency have earned him national attention, and he thrives in camp settings against top competition. He's accurate, clutch, and rapidly improving. The FIU offer and #1 Kornblue rating speak volumes about his projection. Could be a Power Five-level kicker by senior year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em><strong>5. Wyatt Long – K – Maclay High</strong></em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em><strong>5'8", 140 lbs</strong></em><br><em><strong>Stats: 3-3 FG (Long: 34), 33-35 PAT</strong></em><br><em><strong>Rating: 4.5 Stars (Kohl's Kicking)</strong></em><br><em><strong>Speed: 4.5 40</strong></em><br><em><strong>Multi-sport: Soccer</strong></em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Evaluation: Long is small in frame but big on performance, showing elite quickness, form, and consistency. His top 10 finish at the Kohl's Southern Showcase and perfect FG record show his clutch ability. Despite his size, he gets good lift and ball rotation, and his soccer foundation adds polish. Could thrive at the NAIA/D3 level immediately, and may earn D2 looks as he adds strength.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->