Locked Gates: Waco’s 2026 DBs

Waco continues to produce gritty, competitive defenders and the 2026 defensive backs are no exception. This group brings a mix of physicality, instincts, and ball skills that translate on both Friday nights and college tape. Whether it's locking down top receivers in man or flying downhill to make plays in space, these DBs are showing they can cover ground, bring pressure, and create turnovers.    Jamarion is a versatile athlete who shines on both sides of the ball, but his future is clearly on defense. A high school quarterback with a natural feel for the game, he brings that same field awareness to the safety position. He diagnoses plays quickly, takes smart angles, and isn't afraid to come downhill and deliver a hit. His experience under center gives him an edge in reading opposing QBs, and he has the range and instincts to make plays all over the field. With his physicality and athleticism Jamarion projects as a reliable, impact safety at the next level.      Qwae is a rangy safety with a knack for finding the football he always finds his way around the ball. He covers ground effortlessly on the back end and isn't afraid to come downhill and set the tone. His closing speed stands out on film, and he shows the ability to finish plays in space. Whether it's tracking deep routes or stepping up in the box, Qwae brings versatility and physicality to the secondary. He's the type of safety who can erase mistakes and create game-changing moments.      Kristian is a tough, instinctive defensive back who projects as a nickel at the next level. He's comfortable playing in the box, quick to diagnose plays, and isn't shy about getting physical in the run game. What makes him valuable is his versatility he can match up with slots in coverage, blitz off the edge, and slide back to safety when needed. Kristian plays with a high motor, reacts fast, and always seems to be around the action. He brings a gritty, do-it-all presence to any secondary.      Jason is a disciplined and athletic defensive back who recently committed to TCU, bringing a balanced skill set to the Horned Frogs' secondary. He excels in both man and zone coverage, showing fluid hips and quick reaction time to stay with receivers. Jason is physical enough to support the run and aggressive when attacking the ball in the air, often making plays on contested catches. His football instincts and consistent tackling make him a reliable presence in the back end, and he's poised to develop into a key contributor at the college level.      Ty is a ATH who projects well as a nickel at the next level. He thrives in slot coverage, using his agility and sharp instincts to stay tight on receivers. Ty's ability to read routes and anticipate throws allows him to break up passes and make timely tackles. He's also effective playing near the line of scrimmage, showing physicality against the run and in blitz packages. Ty's versatility and playmaking mindset make him a valuable asset in any secondary.      Brenden is a confident and aggressive defensive back who excels in tight coverage and isn't afraid to challenge receivers at the catch point. He plays with a physical edge, showing strength in run support and an ability to deliver hard hits. Brenden has solid ball skills and consistently looks to create turnovers, always finding his way around the ball. His versatility allows him to line up both outside and in the slot, giving his team flexibility in defensive schemes. At the next level, Brenden projects as a reliable, playmaking presence in the secondary.      Jeremiah is a smart, instinctive defensive back who brings energy and awareness to every snap. He's quick to diagnose plays and reacts decisively, always finding his way around the ball. An interception machine, Jeremiah has a knack for making big plays and changing the momentum of the game. Whether covering receivers or stepping up in run support, he shows solid tackling and physicality. His versatility allows him to contribute both in the box and in deep coverage, making him a valuable asset for any defense. With continued development, he projects as a steady, impactful presence at the next level.      Cole is a competitive, instinctive defensive back who plays with a chip on his shoulder. He may not have ideal size, but he makes up for it with quick feet, sharp instincts, and a fearless mindset. Cole is sticky in coverage, whether in the slot or outside, and isn't afraid to come downhill and make tackles in space. He plays with confidence, communicates well, and always seems to be around the football.        Christian is a smooth, athletic defensive back with excellent instincts and range. He shows great awareness in coverage, staying patient with his eyes and breaking on the ball with confidence. Christian plays with fluid hips, allowing him to cover ground quickly and match up with a variety of receivers. He's also not afraid to get physical in the run game willing to come downhill and make secure tackles. With his versatility and natural feel for the position, Christian brings real value to any secondary.       Waco's 2026 defensive backs bring a powerful combination of versatility, physicality, and ball skills that make them stand out across the region. From lockdown corners to instinctive safeties, this group consistently shows the ability to impact all phases of the game whether it's shutting down top receivers, making key tackles, or creating turnovers. With their relentless work ethic and natural playmaking ability, the Waco DBs are poised to make waves at the next level and beyond.

Waco continues to produce gritty, competitive defenders and the 2026 defensive backs are no exception. This group brings a mix of physicality, instincts, and ball skills that translate on both Friday nights and college tape. Whether it's locking down top receivers in man or flying downhill to make plays in space, these DBs are showing they can cover ground, bring pressure, and create turnovers.