2026 Defensive Watchlist: Small School Stars Set to Shine

Today we will be taking a look at some prospects that are great at getting out of breaks quickly to come away with interceptions. These are the players that you will need to know as we head towards the season. If you are new and looking to subscribe use the code: Davis30 for a 30% discount off of your first subscription. If you are returning and want 30% off of the monthly subscription use code: DavisPRZ30 for a discount.    Dujka is a defensive back who can do it all and he plays with energy and instinct. He is able to line up at multiple positions being a hybrid defender, Dujka brings the same disruptive mindset. His instincts in coverage are sharp, evidenced by his 4 interceptions last season, often coming from reading the quarterback and jumping routes. What sets him apart is his ability to close in space, taking excellent pursuit angles and finishing plays with aggression. His motor never stops, and he's constantly around the football. Dujka has the tools and production to be a breakout name this summer, especially as more eyes turn toward small school standouts with elite ball skills and versatility.     Few players affect the game in as many ways as Willhite. He has the ability to flip the field as a returner, being able to be a smooth operator as a holder, or breaking on the ball in coverage, Willhite consistently makes plays. He grabbed 4 interceptions last season, showcasing excellent hands and anticipation. In the open field, he's a reliable tackler who isn't afraid to come downhill and chop down ball carriers. His athleticism and versatility make him a coach's dream and a threat in all three phases. Willhite's value lies in his ability to contribute across the board, expect him to take a major leap heading into summer action.     DeHerrera's range as a center fielder in baseball directly translates to the football field, where he thrives as a lockdown defender. He plays with great awareness, often reading through routes and anticipating breaks before they happen. His ability to track the ball in the air and come down with interceptions, three last season, is a testament to his vision and timing. DeHerrera regularly erases the top pass catching option, forcing quarterbacks to look away from his side of the field. With elite field sense, DeHerrera is a name to watch closely as he continues to rise this summer.     Bollock is a true hybrid linebacker who thrives in both the run and passing game. He flies around the field, showcasing physicality and a relentless motor that's hard to match. With 3 sacks and 3 interceptions last season, Bollock's versatility was on full display as he is able to pressure the quarterback or drop into coverage. He thrives on contact and plays downhill, never hesitating to meet ball carriers in the gap. His pursuit angles and open field tackling gives him the edge to play free. As summer rolls on, Bollock is poised to take a big step forward and is a player to know.     Edgington brings elite vision to the defensive backfield, developed in part from his baseball background as a top fielder. That awareness allows him to read the quarterback's eyes and break on passes with confidence, racking up 3 interceptions last season. Edgington isn't just a cover guy, he's physical enough to drop down into the box and make plays near the line of scrimmage. His willingness to come downhill and contribute in run support adds another layer to his game. With his dual-sport mentality and football IQ, Edgington is the kind of player who could see an uptick in his recruitment this summer.

Today we will be taking a look at some prospects that are great at getting out of breaks quickly to come away with interceptions. These are the players that you will need to know as we head towards the season. If you are new and looking to subscribe use the code: Davis30 for a 30% discount off of your first subscription. If you are returning and want 30% off of the monthly subscription use code: DavisPRZ30 for a discount.