Houston’s Hidden Gems from the Class of 2026

<p>The Houston high school football scene is loaded with talent, but not every standout athlete receives the attention they deserve. The Class of 2026 features several players flying under the radar—athletes with size, speed, intelligence, and a strong work ethic who are poised to make waves in the coming seasons. Here's a closer look at some of the Houston area's best-kept secrets. </p>   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"></h3>   <p></p>    <p class="text-gray-700">Robert Easley is a versatile and athletic football player for Stafford High School, excelling as both a wide receiver and long snapper. Standing at 6'4" and 185 pounds, Easley's length and athleticism make him a dangerous target in the passing game, particularly in contested catch situations and red-zone opportunities. His ability to use his size to create separation and high-point the football sets him apart from many receivers in his class.</p>   <p>His work ethic in the classroom matches his dedication on the gridiron. In addition to his offensive contributions, Easley's skill as a long snapper adds unique value to his team, showcasing his versatility and willingness to contribute in multiple roles. Off the field, Robert maintains a 3.0 GPA, reflecting a solid balance between academics and athletics. With continued development of his route running and speed, Easley has the tools to become a standout recruit and a reliable playmaker at the next level.</p>   <p class="text-gray-700"></p>    <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"></h3>   <p></p>    <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='1748900' first='Channing' last='Nevels'] is an anchor on the offensive line for Hightower. He has the strength and agility to dominate at the point of attack. He also reflects a disciplined and focused mindset—qualities that will serve him well as he garners more attention from college recruiters. Nevels is an imposing and talented offensive lineman for Hightower High School. Known for his power, balance, and strong hands, Nevels is the cornerstone of the Hightower offensive front. His ability to dominate at the line of scrimmage stems not only from his natural size and athleticism but also from his dedication to strength training and powerlifting. His commitment in the weight room is evident in his explosive lower-body strength and ability to drive defenders off the ball, making him highly effective in both run blocking and pass protection.</p>    <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"></h3>   <p></p>    <p class="text-gray-700">Dominic Young is a dynamic two-sport athlete at Stafford High School, excelling in both football and basketball. Standing 6'3" and weighing 190 pounds, Young brings a unique blend of size, athleticism, and versatility to the field as both a tight end and wide receiver. His length and catch radius make him a matchup nightmare for defenders, while his fluid footwork and body control—skills sharpened on the basketball court—translate seamlessly to route running and high-pointing the football. While his 4.0 GPA showcases his commitment to excellence in all areas. Young's combination of skill and intelligence makes him one of Stafford's most promising young athletes.</p>   <p class="text-gray-700">Young's basketball background is particularly impressive. He is a three-year letterman and a key contributor to Stafford's basketball team, which reached the state finals during his tenure. This high-level basketball experience has given him exceptional hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and competitiveness under pressure—traits that enhance his ability to perform in critical football situations.</p>    <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"></h3>   <p></p>    <p class="text-gray-700">Hatangimana Olivier is emerging as one of the most impactful defensive players in the Houston area as he heads into his senior season. At 6'2" and 200 pounds, Olivier has the perfect blend of size, speed, and physicality to dominate from his linebacker position. Known for his relentless motor and instinctive play, he enters his senior campaign with an impressive <strong>92 tackles and 7 tackles for loss (TFLs)</strong>, establishing himself as the heart of Stafford's defense.</p>   <p class="text-gray-700">Olivier's game is defined by his ability to diagnose plays quickly and close in on ball carriers with explosive burst. Whether it's stopping the run or dropping into coverage, he demonstrates the versatility needed to play every down. His physical style of play, combined with strong tackling fundamentals, allows him to disrupt offenses and set the tone for his team.</p>    <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"></h3>   <p></p>    <p class="text-gray-700">Christopher Brown is one of the most electric dual-threat quarterbacks in the Houston area, and his performance during the 2024 season proves he is a game-changing talent. At 5'10" and 165 pounds, Brown combines blazing speed with sharp decision-making and a strong arm, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His 4.39 40-yard dash time allows him to extend plays and turn broken situations into explosive gains.</p>   <p class="text-gray-700">Brown's 2024 season was nothing short of spectacular. He threw for <strong>2,437 passing yards and 30 touchdowns</strong>, displaying his accuracy, ability to read defenses, and confidence in delivering the ball downfield. On the ground, he was equally dangerous, rushing for <strong>1,273 yards and 17 touchdowns</strong>, often breaking through defenses with his speed and elusiveness. His versatility and playmaking ability not only led Yates' offense but also placed him among the most productive quarterbacks in Texas.</p>    <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"></h3>   <p></p>    <p class="text-gray-700">Jakeon Jackson was named the Offensive MVP of his district for the 2024 season—a testament to his ability to lead and produce on the field. With a 3.1 GPA and exceptional athleticism, Jackson is a versatile quarterback who continues to raise his stock as a playmaker and leader. Jackson's junior season showcased his ability to deliver under pressure. He threw for <strong>1,218 passing yards and 20 touchdowns</strong>, finishing the season with an impressive <strong>110.3 QB rating</strong>. His poise in the pocket, combined with his accuracy on deep throws and quick decision-making, helped Wharton's offense remain explosive throughout the 2024 season. Beyond the stats, Jackson's leadership and ability to command the huddle make him a cornerstone of Wharton's football program.</p>    <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"></h3>   <p></p>    <p class="text-gray-700">McFarland combines physicality with excellent coverage skills, allowing him to excel against both the pass and the run. His junior season was a testament to his playmaking ability and defensive awareness, as he recorded <strong>37 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 1 tackle for loss (TFL)</strong>.</p>   <p class="text-gray-700">McFarland's strength lies in his ability to read the quarterback's eyes and anticipate plays, giving him an edge in coverage. He is not afraid to be physical at the point of attack, often coming downhill to stop the run or delivering strong tackles in open space.</p>    <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"></h3>   <p></p>    <p class="text-gray-700">Ashour has the physical tools and athleticism to dominate opposing offenses. Despite missing part of the 2024 season due to injury, Ashour made a significant impact in just seven games, recording <strong>35 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss (TFLs), and 5.5 sacks</strong>. His ability to disrupt plays in the backfield showcases both his explosiveness and exceptional football instincts.</p>   <p class="text-gray-700">Ashour is a three-year letterman for Fort Bend Austin, demonstrating his consistency and leadership within the program. His versatility allows him to excel as both a run-stopper and a pass-rusher, while his high motor and quick first step make him a constant threat to opposing quarterbacks.</p>    <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Final Word</strong></h3>   <p>These athletes may not yet have the spotlight that some of Houston's bigger names enjoy, but their talent and determination suggest that it's only a matter of time before they rise to prominence. The Class of 2026 is deep with potential, and these players are proving that hard work and consistent performance can't go unnoticed for long.</p>

The Houston high school football scene is loaded with talent, but not every standout athlete receives the attention they deserve. The Class of 2026 features several players flying under the radar—athletes with size, speed, intelligence, and a strong work ethic who are poised to make waves in the coming seasons. Here's a closer look at some of the Houston area's best-kept secrets.