2027 WR Brendan Cardoso Brendan Cardoso 5'10" | 170 lbs | DB/WR ST. RAPHAEL ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL | 2027 State New E . Many are beginning to recognize his potential, and it's a name we will hear more often in the near future. I first had the privilege of witnessing Brendan's skills in early May 2024, during the 3rd annual AAU Elite 7v7 event held in the New England region. His performance caught my attention that day, showcasing a blend of agility, speed, and strategic thinking on the field. Brendan's consistent growth as an athlete has now caught the eye of notable figures, including former New England Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick. After attending a summer college camp on June 2, 2025, Brendan proved his capabilities in front of the UNC coaching staff, resulting in a verbal offer opportunity. This recognition from such a prestigious figure in the sport speaks volumes about his talent and work ethic.
Following this significant milestone, I had the opportunity to catch up with Brendan for a brief question-and-answer session. He expressed his excitement regarding the verbal offer and his aspirations moving forward. Brendan is determined to refine his skills and continue developing as a player, all while maintaining a strong academic focus. I had a Q&A with Brendan to give our readers a taste of this rising prospect's character and skill set, which many will see and hear about in the New England region going forward.

Can you tell me a bit about your background and how you got into football?

I started to get into football when I was young stared with flag football and did not start play contact until 12 my parents got me into football and watching Julio Jones on the falcons made me fall in love.

What other sports or extracurricular activities are you involved in at school? How do they complement your football skills?

 My other sports I played basketball my freshman year, but I now do track where I feel like help me lot with my speed.

What position(s) do you primarily play, and how did you come to choose those positions?

My main position is Wide Receiver and on the defensive side I could play safety what really wanted me to play Receiver is Julio Jones "Waffle House" seeing play every Sunday really wanted me to go play Receiver

Can you describe your playing style and strengths on the field?

My strengths are speed and how I can react to the defense in Zone and my hands and my ability to stop on a dime. 

What areas of your game are you currently working to improve?

 I am currently working on making everything look the same and getting stronger in the weight room.

How do you maintain your physical conditioning during the season and off-season?

I maintain my physical condition with my training coach. Zay helped me lot through this whole process. He is now working at the university Of Buffalo. He and Alex Cortellssa best trainers in RI and Mass. Coach Kari helps me with my technique and skills as a wide receiver. 

You recently attended a camp at UNC and earned a verbal offer after the event. Please provide the readers with your description of how the verbal offer was communicated and who the coaches present were when the offer was delivered. 

I don't want to say too much about it but after the camp I had a conversation with the coaches and the staff and told me they offer me.

How many colleges or universities have expressed interest in you prior to the offer you received from UNC, and which ones have stood out?

Before UNC, a lot of colleges had not talked to me but Boston College did invite me to their spring game and football camp June 15th.

What factors are most important to you when considering a college program?

 Some factors that are important to me are the academic side when I do go to college I want to major in sports marketing. The sports side of things I want team that treat each other like a family and pushes them to get better every day.

Have you taken any official or unofficial visits to potential colleges or universities? If so, which ones and what was your impression?

No, I have not taken an official or unofficial visits to a college yet. 

How have your coaches, teammates influenced your recruitment process?

My coach Michael Sassi did help me with a text to the staff of UNC and my teammates been helping me get better every day

*Who are the main people involved in your recruiting decisions (coaches, family, mentors)? How do they assist you?

Elijah Anderson Elijah Anderson 6'0" | 170 lbs | DB Saint Raphael Academy | 2027 State New E defensive back helps me go against a DB like it's a real game one of the best defensive backs I go against. My quarterback Nelson Martinez Nelson Martinez 6'0" | 180 lbs | QB Wyoming Seminary Prep | 2026 New E we go throw the ball anytime we can he will put in the right spot every single time.

Now that you have your first offer from a Div 1 FBS school that you eanred by performing for the staff at a camp, has your confidence been boosted?

Now that I do have an offer my confidence has went up, but I still stay humble keep my head down and keep grinding. 

What timeline are you looking at for making your college decision? Are you leaning toward any specific school yet that you would like to see?

Not sure yet. It would be a blessing to get an offer from any school.

What do you think separates you from other recruits in your position?

 I think what separates me from the rest is my work ethic I will give my 110% day in and day out.

What are your goals, both academically and athletically, for this year?

I want to achieve honors all year.

What do you hope to achieve in college besides playing football?

 I want to graduate and get my degree. 

Why do you believe you are well-suited to contribute to a college football program?

 I will represent a program well. I will be a role model, a leader not a follower.

What motivates you to play football, and what drives you to succeed?

My family they put money and time into and trust my abilities so I must prove to them and myself who I am. Offers don't mean anything stars don't mean anything if you can ball, they will find you keep your head down and grind.

I first saw you in at a 7v7 event in New England when I approached you to get a short intro interview after watching you perform at the event. Have you enjoyed the recruiting content Prep Redzone has published for college coaches eyes to know about your skills? 

Prep Redzone is a great resource to get your name out there and expose your talent.