Senior Small-School Standouts

Eric Bergman November 17, 2025 @ 02:21 PM

Small-school football in Illinois is loaded with seniors who are the backbone of their programs, and this group continues to prove why they're some of the best playmakers in the state.   Cole Davis – RB/LB – Breese Central Davis is the definition of a workhorse. The 5'10, 195-pound senior runs with power, finishes every carry, and brings the same physical edge to the defensive side. He's the tone-setter for Central, and everything runs through his toughness.   Kaiden Stout – RB – Rochester Stout is a long, athletic back at 6'3, 185, and his stride makes him a nightmare in space. Rochester always reloads, and Stout is one of the guys who keeps that standard high with his ability to create explosive plays.   [player_tooltip player_id='1400021' first='Levi' last='Mallette'] – OL – Chicago Hope Academy A 6'2, 285-pound anchor up front, Mallette wins with leverage and size. He controls the line of scrimmage, finishes blocks, and gives Hope a reliable presence to run behind. He's the kind of senior every small-school program wishes they had.   [player_tooltip player_id='1622819' first='Jack' last='Gronewold'] – WR/DB – Farmington Central At 6'3, 215, Gronewold brings a true matchup advantage. Big, strong, and athletic, he's a problem on the perimeter and a disruptor in the secondary. He changes coverages and makes life tough on opposing quarterbacks.   Cam Shriey – RB – Seneca Shriey fits Seneca football — physical, efficient, and dependable. The 6'1, 190-pound senior runs with great vision and always seems to find the crease. He's a huge part of why Seneca has stayed consistent and tough to slow down.   Evan Cox – LB/RB – Dwight Township Cox is a 5'11, 190-pound senior who plays with a gritty, downhill style. He flies to the football, hits with purpose, and gives Dwight a veteran presence on both sides of the ball. His versatility makes him one of the most valuable players in the area.

Small-school football in Illinois is loaded with seniors who are the backbone of their programs, and this group continues to prove why they're some of the best playmakers in the state.