Season Preview: Steele Knights

<ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>@ Liberty Hill</li>   <li>San Antonio Reagan</li>   <li>San Antonio Brandeis</li>   <li>@ Austin Westlake</li>   <li>Schertz Clemens *</li>   <li>@ San Antonio East Central *</li>   <li>Converse Judson *</li>   <li>@ San Marcos *</li>   <li>New Braunfels Canyon *</li>   <li>@ Buda Johnson *</li> </ul>    [player_tooltip player_id='946458' first='Eli' last='Johnson'] stands at an impressive 6′3″ and around 185–200 lbs, projecting as a prototypical collegiate safety and earning four-star status in national rankings. A standout at Steele High in Cibolo, Texas, he's become one of the most sought-after defensive backs in the 2027 class—amassing over 25 offers from top-tier programs like Texas, Oklahoma, Texas A&M, Ohio State, Oregon, Baylor, Florida State, TCU, Oregon State, SMU, UTSA, Minnesota, and more. His recent invitation and offer from Texas at the June elite camp further cement his status as a national prospect.   On the field, Johnson pairs elite athleticism with sharp instincts. Prep Redzone's “Stock Rising Defensive Backs” evaluation highlights his rangy frame, ball-hawking skills, and technical poise in both zone and man coverage. In camp evaluations, analysts rave about his smooth transitions from backpedal to break, consistent high-pointing, and his ability to stick to receivers in tight coverage. At Steele, he's regularly been the game-changer—shutting down targets deep while providing physical support in run defense.   What truly sets Johnson apart are his intangibles: football IQ, work ethic, and leadership. Coaches praise his film study, communication in the secondary, and physical toughness at the catch point . As a standout performer at Texas A&M's camp, he demonstrated readiness to compete at the highest level . With his rare blend of size, athletic traits, technique, and competitive mentality, [player_tooltip player_id='946458' first='Eli' last='Johnson'] is shaping up to be not only the backbone of Steele's secondary but also one of the premier safety prospects in the 2027 recruiting cycle.   [player_tooltip player_id='946458' first='Eli' last='Johnson'] is a true NFL-style safety in the making—versatile, instinctive, and rapidly ascending in the national recruiting ranks.     Dominic Warner brings a physical presence to the tight end position at 6′2″ and 220 lbs, with a lineage rooted in high-level football—he's the younger brother of UTEP quarterback Chad Warner. That pedigree has translated into early varsity impact, as Dominic blends size, athleticism, and impressive technique to quickly become a key target in Steele's offensive scheme. His ability to flex between inline blocking and split-out receiver roles gives coaches versatility without sacrificing efficiency in the run or pass game.   On film, Warner consistently shows why he elevates Steele's offense. In the red zone and short-yardage situations, he executes powerful blocks at the point of attack, creating movement and seal opportunities for ball carriers. In the passing game, his clean release off the line combined with soft hands result in reliable catches—especially on seam routes and quick outs. His 4.7-second in-house 40‑yard dash and crisp footwork in route stems make him a mismatch man in the intermediate zones.   What sets Dominic apart is the combination of toughness, instincts, and pedigree. Coaches praise his football IQ—he reads hole combinations to adjust blocks on the fly—and note his knack for finding soft spots in zone coverage. On contested catches, he leverages his basketball-style body control and extensions to come down with the football. With that physical ceiling and strong developmental mindset, Dominic Warner is emerging as a foundational tight end for Steele—and a prospect to monitor closely as colleges look for modern, versatile TE playmakers.   Bottom line: Dominic Warner is a tight end with pop—blending blocking chops, sure hands, route polish, and pedigree—well on his way to becoming Steele's go-to playmaker at the position.     Jayden “JG” Ghee brings an ideal height‑speed combination to Steele's secondary. Standing 6′1″ and 175 lbs, Ghee possesses the frame of a prototypical college-cornerback with above-average length and athleticism. He's carved out a prominent role in Steele's varsity defense as a rising sophomore, regularly lining up both in press-man and off-coverage depending on the matchup .   On film, Ghee displays a confident, poised style that belies his underclassman status. His backpedal-to-break technique is smooth and disciplined, showcasing quick hips and fluid transitions into breaks on routes. He consistently locates the ball in the air, battles effectively at the catch point, and exhibits the burst to close in man coverage or carry deep zones. Coaches often mention his ability to “mirror opponents like a much older player” and his knack for forcing incompletions by sticking with receivers at full speed .   Perhaps most impressive is Ghee's football IQ and maturity. He's been praised for his thorough preparation—studying route combinations, communicating coverages, and adjusting alignments pre-snap to help anchor Steele's backend. On game days, he plays with a calm confidence, makes smart decisions under pressure, and brings physicality in run support and tackling. With his combination of size, technique, and cerebral play, [player_tooltip player_id='1856978' first='Jayden' last='Ghee'] is already trending toward being one of Steele's key defensive leaders and a compelling 2027 DB prospect.     Marshall “MJ” Kenner Jr. powers into the backfield at a compact yet explosive 5′10″ and roughly 190 lbs. A left‑handed runner by preference, he's been steadily strengthening in the weight room—benching around 290 lbs and squatting a stout 455 lbs—building a rock‑solid frame to accompany his natural agility. MJ's early varsity reps and spring ball performances have turned heads across San Antonio, positioning him as one of the region's most intriguing underclassman ball‑carriers.   On the field, Kenner Jr. showcases a deadly combination of burst, vision, and soft hands. Prep Redzone's spring evaluation highlights his ability to "find seams and pick up tough yards between the tackles" and labels him an “effortless runner with a keen understanding of blocking schemes” . Film confirms he patiently reads blocks, explodes through creases, and then shows natural contact balance—breaking arm tackles and falling forward for extra yards. His catching ability out of the backfield adds a valuable third dimension to Steele's offense.   What truly separates MJ is the seamless blend of athleticism and physicality. At his size, his agility and lateral change-of-direction stand out in traffic, while his lower-body strength allows him to finish runs with downhill authority. Teammates and coaches note his maturity and pace in practice—studying the playbook, honing protection assignments, and making decisive reads at the second level. In short, Kenner. is the complete back: compact frame, dynamic explosiveness, soft hands, and a physical mindset—traits that suggest big things in the 2025-26 season and beyond.   MJ Kenner Jr. isn't just explosive—he's polished, versatile, and physical—a rising force in South Texas backfields.     DJ Green brings a classic dual‑threat profile to Steele's offense, standing 6′2″ and weighing 200 lbs. A poised leader in the pocket, his size, arm strength, and composure have made him a name to know, demonstrating why he's becoming a linchpin for the Knights' offense this spring and fall season.   What sets Green apart is how he balances precision passing with explosive athleticism. On film, he delivers tight, accurate spirals from rhythm drop-back sets, then can seamlessly transition into scramble mode—breaking off designed runs or improvised yardage when protections break down. His smooth footwork and field vision allow him to extend plays and flip defenses, keeping drives alive and shifting momentum. Coaches frequently praise his ability to read coverages pre‑snap and make adjustments—traits uncommon in underclassmen.   Beyond physical traits, Green's intangibles shine brightest. His poise under pressure, leadership in the huddle, and relentless work ethic have earned respect from coaches and teammates alike. He leads Steele's offseason regimen in film study and sharpening mechanics, and his confidence and calm presence put him in the conversation to to take the helm of the offense for 2025. With his combination of arm talent, athleticism, intelligence, and charisma, DJ Green is shaping up to be one of South Texas's most dynamic young quarterbacks—and a prospect to watch as his recruitment gains steam.   DJ blends size, accuracy, scrambling ability, and leadership—a compelling dual‑threat QB building momentum toward a breakout junior season.     Michael “Trey” Johnson is a lanky, high-ceiling defensive back at 6′3″ and 190 lbs, making him an intriguing prospect in the Class of 2027. A four-star safety prospect, he's already attracted serious interest from major programs. He holds offers from Arizona State, Baylor, Houston, Texas Tech, and Texas State—five Power 5 and Group of 5 schools showing faith in his long-term upside.   On the field, Johnson displays a rare mix of rangy coverage skills and ball instincts. Coaches emphasize his seamless transitions from backpedal to break, fluid hips, and ability to close on deep threats—especially in man coverage. Game film from Steele shows him consistently locking down top receivers, breaking up passes, and offering support in run fits. His timing at the catch point and aerial awareness make him a natural playmaker in the secondary .   Beyond pure athleticism, Johnson's competitiveness and football IQ set him apart. In a Q&A with LoneStarPreps, he detailed his study methods—breaking down opponents' route combinations and communicating alignment adjustments on the backend. Coaches praise his leadership, confidence in directing coverage, and consistent effort during contact and tackling drills. With his physical tools, instincts, and vocal presence, Johnson is quickly emerging as Steele High's defensive anchor and one of the most compelling DB talents in the 2027 cycle.   Trey combines elite size, coverage agility, and smarts—all backed by offers from Arizona State, Baylor, Houston, Texas Tech, and Texas State—a prospect on the rise and one to watch closely     [player_tooltip player_id='1140466' first='Julian' last='Hugo'] stands at a formidable 6'4" and 250 lb, anchoring the edge for Steele High with a rare blend of size and power. A recent commit to Arizona State in April 2025, his junior season numbers speak volumes: 83 tackles, 21 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks, alongside 30 quarterback hurries, a blocked field goal, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. His dominance earned him District 29‑6A Defensive Player of the Year honors, and he's consistently among the top-ranked defensive ends in Texas 6A.   What sets Hugo apart is how he plays the game—his athleticism glides under the radar until it's too late. At camps and on the film, he sets the edge with long, explosive bursts and a relentless rush plan, using powerful swim and rip moves to beat offensive tackles . He demonstrates refined technique with hand fighting, dip-and-lean leverage, and a knack for maintaining edge control even against zone-blocking schemes. His 30 QB hurries and consistent backfield disruption is evidence of his game-changing consistency .   Beyond the stats, it's his relentless motor and high football IQ that make him special. Coaches praise his in-play adjustments and determination, while teammates point to his leadership and energy-setting presence on the edge. His early commitment to Arizona State shows both his maturity and program-caliber readiness. With his size, athleticism, technique, and drive, [player_tooltip player_id='1140466' first='Julian' last='Hugo'] is a disruptive force in the trenches and one of the most polished defensive-end prospects in the 2026 cycle.   [player_tooltip player_id='1140466' first='Julian' last='Hugo'] brings the full kit—physical dominance, refined technique, and relentless effort. He's a difference-maker on the rise as he heads to the collegiate level.     [player_tooltip player_id='212433' first='Jonathan' last='Hatton Jr']. is a force in the backfield—standing 6′1″, tipping the scales near 215 lbs, and boasting four-star status and a recent commitment to Texas A&M on March 22, 2025. A high‑volume workhorse, he rushed for 1,147 yards and 14 touchdowns across 12 games during the 2024 season, averaging over 95 yards per game while ranking among the top rushers in the region and state . His commitment capped a torrent of recruitment attention: he earned 30+ Division I offers before making his pledge.   On the field, Hatton blends power, fluidity, and vision in a rare combination. Prep Redzone scouts describe him as “a grown man on the football field,” highlighting his ability to break arm tackles, burst through creases, and finish runs with authority. Whether powering up the middle or making defenders miss in second level traffic, he consistently imposes his will. His junior year growth in strength and breakaway capability has added another dimension—he can now rip off explosive gains and drag multiple defenders into the secondary.   What sets Hatton apart isn't just statistics or frame—it's his complete back skill set. He passes NFL-style eye tests with competitive instincts, contact balance, and even pass-catching ability. Texas Football dubbed him “one of the top RB prospects in the Lone Star State,” and A&M touted his “electric juice” in their program fit. His leadership shows up in max-effort finishes on every play, and he's viewed as a foundational piece for heavy-duty collegiate rushing attacks. As a 2026 running back, [player_tooltip player_id='212433' first='Jonathan' last='Hatton Jr']. isn't just dominant—he's elite, legitimate, and college-ready.   Jonathan possesses the rare mix of power, production, instincts, and polish—look for him to be a feature back in College Station.