Fall Build-Up Series: Polk County 2026s with Breakout Potential

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Albert Plain | ATH | Frostproof | @AlbertPlain_</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Plain continues to be one of the more dynamic athletes in Polk County. He's a true three-phase player who makes an impact whether it's offense, defense, or special teams. While others transferred out, he stayed committed to Frostproof—and that loyalty combined with production speaks volumes heading into his junior year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='869381' first='Zyuan' last='Dukes'] | WR | Lake Wales | @ZDhumble3</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Dukes is one of the better deep threats in the area with strong route running and dependable hands. At 6-0, 175, he brings a balanced skill set that makes him dangerous at all three levels. After a strong offseason, he's poised to become one of the more heavily recruited receivers in the region.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Darion Jiles | ATH | Auburndale | @DarionJiles07</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Jiles brings a physical, well-rounded game that will shine in Auburndale's system. He runs crisp routes, competes for catches, and can be used in multiple ways on both sides of the ball. Don't be surprised if his name starts gaining more buzz this fall.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Devonte Howard | WR | LCS | @DJhoward_6</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Howard has lined up at multiple positions but seems ready to break out as a full-time receiver. His speed and ability to stretch the field make him a solid target in any system. He's one of the better athletes in his program—expect his numbers to climb.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>D'Cari Smith | LB | Lake Wales | @1era__</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Smith is one of the more physical linebackers in Central Florida. He finished last season with 100 total tackles and 16 TFLs, thriving as a downhill attacker. He diagnoses plays well and brings the kind of energy every defense needs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>David Bess | DB | Auburndale | @Davidbess_</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Bess plays with confidence and doesn't back down from any matchup. Physical at the line and quick to support the run, he's becoming one of the better corners in Polk County. He showed flashes this spring and is trending up fast.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1143144' first='Riley' last='Cooper'] | OL/DL | Auburndale | @Rileyfrmpolk</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Cooper is one of the more dominant trench prospects in the region. At 6-1, 285, he brings power, attitude, and surprising versatility—he will also see a lot reps on the offensive line. Keep an eye on his development; the tools are there.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Zephaniah Rogers | OLB | Lakeland | @ZephaniahRoger5</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Rogers is a solid piece to the Lakeland defense and looks ready for a productive senior year. He covers ground well and plays with an edge. He's one of the better 2026 linebackers in the program and should grow into a serious impact guy.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Jaidon Furman | RB | Tenoroc | @jaidon_f09</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Furman has been a steady producer for Tenoroc, closing in on 1,000 yards last season. He's a north-south runner who finishes his carries with authority. One of the more productive backs flying under the radar right now.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Cassidy Ervin | WR | Auburndale | @CassidyErvinn</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Ervin is a burner in the slot who also makes plays on defense. He's built up momentum this offseason and could carry that into the fall. If he settles into his role and stays consistent, expect him to be one of the better utility guys in the area.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1581765' first='Mekhi' last='Berrien'] | LB | Fort Meade | @MekhiBerrien</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Berrien is one of the more dependable backers in Polk. He's physical, instinctive, and has taken on a leadership role for the Miners. Solid production with room to grow—he'll be key to their defensive game plan.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Bryson Jones | ATH | Santa Fe | @BeastlyB9</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Jones brings a smashmouth mentality to both sides of the ball. Whether it's downhill running or downhill tackling, he's one of the more physical athletes in the county. Santa Fe will rely on him to set the tone.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1790347' first='Ashton' last='Frazier'] | ATH | @AshtonFrazier_</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Frazier has next-level athleticism but hasn't really had a full season to show it yet. He filled in at quarterback when needed but projects as a true skill guy. One of the better athletes still waiting on a full spotlight.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->