Spotlight: Long Snappers in Illinois 2026 and 2027
Prep Redzone provides coverage of a recenet combine in Kansas.
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<p>Long snappers often go unnoticed, but they're critical to the success of every special teams unit. A clean snap can be the difference between three points on the board and a costly mistake. Illinois' 2026 and 2027 classes feature several young long snappers who are developing into reliable specialists with bright futures.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1819284' first='Richie' last='Skinkis'] – Nazareth HS (2026)</strong><br>At 5'9, 190 pounds, Skinkis is a compact and steady long snapper who fires the ball back with accuracy. His consistency has made him a trusted piece of Nazareth's special teams, and his ability to stay calm under pressure is a major strength.</p>
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<p><strong>Jonathan Smock – Clinton HS (2026)</strong><br>Smock brings a solid frame at 6'0, 209 pounds, and uses his size to his advantage in protection after the snap. He delivers with a repeatable motion and has the physical build to continue developing as he earns more reps.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1198276' first='Trey' last='Serauskis'] – Lincoln Way East HS (2026)</strong><br>At 6'0, 205 pounds, Serauskis fits the mold of a dependable long snapper. He's shown the ability to deliver tight, consistent snaps and plays with the discipline you expect from a key specialist. In a program like Lincoln Way East, he's gaining valuable experience in high-pressure moments.</p>
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<p><strong>Bryan Aranda – Elgin HS (2026)</strong><br>Though just 5'6, 127 pounds, Aranda plays with toughness and reliability. His quick release and ability to stay on target make him a valuable piece for Elgin. His consistency gives his team confidence in critical situations.</p>
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<p><strong>Joey Chiappini – Minooka HS (2027)</strong><br>Chiappini has a prototypical build for the position at 6'3, 240 pounds. He combines size and strength with velocity in his snaps, while also being able to hold his ground in protection. His upside is high, and he's a name to watch as college recruiters begin to track the 2027 class.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1268284' first='Hunter' last='Long'] – Providence Catholic HS (2027)</strong><br>At 6'1, 220 pounds, Long has excellent size and technique for a young long snapper. His snapping motion is smooth and consistent, and he's gaining valuable game experience at Providence Catholic. Long projects as one of the top specialists in his class.</p>
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Long snappers often go unnoticed, but they're critical to the success of every special teams unit. A clean snap can be the difference between three points on the board and a costly mistake. Illinois' 2026 and 2027 classes feature several young long snappers who are developing into reliable specialists with bright futures.
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