Season Preview- Boerne Champion Chargers

<ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>@ Eagle Pass</li>   <li>@ Laredo United South</li>   <li>@ Medina Valley</li>   <li>Laredo Alexander</li>   <li>Smithson Valley *</li>   <li>@ Seguin *</li>   <li>New Braunfels *</li>   <li>@ San Antonio MacArthur *</li>   <li>Victoria East *</li>   <li>San Antonio Wagner *</li> </ul>    Brogan Dempsey, standing at 6′0″ and 160 lbs, has swiftly emerged as one of the region's most explosive playmakers. As a senior with the Class of 2026, he brings rare big-play ability to the receiving corps. In a critical District 13‑5A‑I matchup against Wagner, Dempsey showcased his game-changing talent—he hauled in just three passes, but all were touchdowns, going for 14, 55, and 68 yards, and earning Player of the Game honors.   On the field, Dempsey's value extends far beyond mere stats. Despite limited targets, he averages over 25 yards per reception, proving to be a vertical threat who can stretch defenses and change the momentum of games. His combination of pro-sized catch radius, burst off the line, and breakaway speed makes him lethal in jump-ball situations—and his clean ball-tracking and play-recognition skills help him outmaneuver defenders at the catch point . Whether lining up inside or outside, he consistently creates matchups that favor speed and athleticism over defenders.   What truly separates Dempsey is his consistency, composure, and chemistry with his quarterback. In the Wagner clash, all three of his receptions came in high-stress, fourth-quarter scenarios—and he delivered each time. His knack for staying composed under pressure, clutch hands, and ability to flip field position have earned him trust in crucial moments. With that poise, game-changing production, and elite athletic traits, Brogan Dempsey is not just Boerne Champion's top receiving weapon—he's a potential collegiate recruit to watch across Texas.   Bottom line: Dempsey is a pure vertical playmaker—speed, technique, instincts, and clutch DNA—marking him as one of the most dynamic Class of 2026 receivers in South Texas.     Alex Sansone brings an impressive 6′3″, 195‑lb frame to the edge for the Chargers, offering the prototype build coaches covet at outside linebacker. Listed as an Edge and a linebacker, he blends that size with high-end athleticism, routinely showing explosive first‑step burst and fluid movement when dropping into coverage. A sophomore-to-junior breakout, his presence on both sides of the ball underscores rare versatility and adaptability.   On the field, Sansone has emerged as a disruptive force on defense. Game film highlights his ability to set the edge, penetrate gaps, and chase down ball‑carriers sideline to sideline. While specific stats aren't publicly posted, coaches report that he consistently pressures quarterbacks and racks up solo tackles close to the line of scrimmage . His physicality against bigger backs and quick-twitch burst on blitz opportunities mark him as a matchup problem for opposing offenses.   What elevates Alex beyond mere athleticism is his football IQ, work ethic, and character. Off‑season, he's a frequent presence in the film room and strength sessions, refining his edge‑setting technique, hand‑fighting, and coverage reads. Coaches praise his leadership demeanor, noting he's already taking charge in drills and helping younger players adjust to defenses. With his combination of size, versatility, instincts, and maturity, Alex Sansone is shaping up as one of South Texas's most promising 2027 linebacker prospects—and a cornerstone of Boerne Champion's defense.   Bottom line: Sansone blends ideal size, athleticism, and emerging leadership—delivering on every rep and positioned for a breakout season as a two-way standout on the edge.     Owen Thornton checks in at 6′3″ and 205 lbs, bringing an ideal blend of size, athleticism, and versatility to the tight end position. While also lining up at defensive end, it's on offense where he's making waves—blending length and movement typically seen at higher levels. His frame allows him to seamlessly transition from in-line roles to split-out formations, creating matchup problems for linebackers or safeties who struggle to match his speed and reach.   On the field, Thornton exhibits polished route-running and dependable hands—traits that separate him in contested-catch scenarios. His long strides help him create natural separation in skinny-posts or seam routes, and he consistently tracks the flight of the football to make strong, athletic grabs. Defensively, he brings physicality to the defensive end spot, setting edges and steering runners with snap presence and gap discipline—a dual-role skill set that speaks to his football IQ and conditioning .   What truly makes Thornton stand out is his leadership, motor, and coachability. Coaches point to his relentless effort in practice and games, along with his willingness to line up on both sides of the ball. He's a vocal presence in the huddle and demonstrates strong film habits—studying both linebacker and tight end technique. As a 2026 athlete, his rare positional flexibility, physical profile, and high football intelligence position him as one of South Texas's most intriguing under-the-radar prospects.   Bottom line: At 6′3″ with size, skill, smarts, and two-way production, Owen Thornton is a polished, versatile tight end and defensive end who's primed for impact—and a breakout senior season.     [player_tooltip player_id='946500' first='Will' last='Burgess'] boasts an ideal 6′0″ and 195‑lb build for a versatile two‑way athlete. As a rising junior, he excels at both wide receiver and free safety, displaying clean route-running, stickiness in coverage, and the toughness to play in contested environments. His commitment to strength and explosiveness—evident in his 315-lb power clean—makes him a physical mismatch for defenders and a consistent presence in the Charger lineup .   On the field, Burgess delivers high-impact performances in every matchup. In 2024, he ranked among Boerne Champion's leading receivers with 552 yards, averaging an eye‑opening 22.1 yards per catch and firing off multiple big‑play receptions—four TDs included. His crisp footwork and long strides give him separation, while his ball-tracking and body control help secure tough receptions over the middle and downfield.   What sets Burgess apart is his dual-threat versatility, leadership, and football IQ. Recognized by Boerne Champion's Offensive Club award as one of three top offensive players on his team , he commands respect in the huddle and adaptability on the field. Whether locking in coverage on defense or stretching seams on offense, Will blends athleticism, craft, and coachability—emerging as one of South Texas's most reliable and dynamic Class of 2027 talents.   Bottom line: [player_tooltip player_id='946500' first='Will' last='Burgess'] has exploded onto the scene as a big-play wideout and savvy two-way performer—size, speed, stats, and smarts all point to a breakout junior campaign ahead.     [player_tooltip player_id='1248406' first='Julian' last='Navarrete'] stands at 5′10″ and 165 lbs, wielding precision, athleticism, and pocket confidence to lead Champion's spread offense. Over three games this season, he's completed 71% of his passes—805 yards, eight touchdown strikes, and one rushing touchdown—showcasing elite accuracy and field command . A left‑handed passer with strong mechanics, he moves through progressions with poise and consistently delivers strikes even while under pressure.   Navarrete thrives as a true dual-threat quarterback. Beyond his efficiency through the air, he adds value on the ground with smart scramble instincts and occasional rushing production—highlighted by a rushing touchdown in the season's early stretch . His lateral mobility and feel for pressure allow him to keep plays alive and convert broken situations into momentum‑shifting gains, making him a tough‑to‑contain asset in the backfield.   His on-field dominance is attracting real collegiate interest. Navarrete recently earned his first offer from UTSA in September of last year—and has since added offers from UIW, and UAB—validating years of hard work, growth, and strong performances . With polished accuracy, dual‑threat toughness, and a rising offer list, [player_tooltip player_id='1248406' first='Julian' last='Navarrete'] is emerging as one of South Texas's most intriguing 2027 quarterback prospects—and a name to watch.     At 6'3", 185 pounds, Garland Whitehead is a dynamic two-way force for Boerne Champion, excelling as both a quarterback and a physical safety. His rare combination of size, athleticism, and toughness makes him one of the most impactful players in the Class of 2026. Whether he's finishing up a scoring drive or shutting down opposing pass games, Whitehead brings a relentless energy and leadership presence to both sides of the ball.   As a quarterback, Whitehead thrives as a true dual-threat. He rushed for five touchdowns last season, using his strong frame, quick feet, and field vision to power through defenders and extend plays with his legs. While he can make throws when needed, it's his ability to read a defense and take off that keeps defenses on edge. His run-first mentality doesn't just gain yards—it sets the tone physically for the offense and opens up opportunities for others around him.   Defensively, Whitehead is just as dominant. At safety, he plays fast and downhill, delivering big hits and showing great instincts in coverage. His understanding of both offensive and defensive responsibilities gives him a high-level football IQ that shows in his reads and positioning. With his toughness, two-way production, and leadership, Garland Whitehead is not only one of the dogs in the Chargers' lineup—he's one of South Texas' most complete and underrated prospects in the 2026 class.   Bottom line: A long, instinctive, and physical presence, Whitehead brings impact plays, intelligence, and leadership—and is firmly on the path to becoming a cornerstone of Boerne Champion's defense.     Zach Lopez may measure just 5′7″ and 155 lbs, but his play on the field measures much larger. As a sophomore for the Chargers, he's already emerged as a dynamic two‑way threat with elite burst and toughness. Whether lining up in the slot or patrolling the secondary, Lopez plays with relentless energy and a fearless mindset that belies his frame.   On offense, Lopez is a quick-twitch playmaker with outstanding open-field vision and balance. He specializes in short and intermediate routes—screens, outs, hitches—and routinely turns those into explosive gains. His ability to shift direction and accelerate through the mesh gives defenses fits, often creating big plays or first downs out of what appeared to be minimal yardage. His reliable hands and savvy route-running make him a go-to target in critical moments.   Defensively, Lopez brings the same smarts and intensity to the secondary. He diagnoses routes early, takes excellent angles in coverage, and applies clean tackling form. Coaches praise his effort and instincts, while teammates highlight his drive and attitude. With speed, technique, and strategic awareness, Zach Lopez is shaping up as one of Boerne Champion's impactful underclassmen—and a name to keep an eye on as he continues to grow.