’27 Rankings Update | New TE Names to Watch

Get 30% off your first billing cycle with code: OscarGalindo30 in the coupon code area.   The Iowa 2027 rankings have been released, with a major overhaul that added over 150 new names to our rankings and watchlist. To cover the rankings update, I wanted to review some of the notable new names that stood out during the evaluation process. The tight ends are the next positional group on my list. Here are a few of the new names to watch on our list.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />    Ankeny Centennial's [player_tooltip player_id='1617623' first='Cade' last='Newman'] not only debuts as a top-20 prospect in this update, but also earns the spot of TE1. As a junior, Cade saw limited touches but still managed to flash high-level upside as he recorded 10 catches for 116 yards and two touchdowns. Newman is a player who passes the eye test immediately at 6'5" and 215 pounds with room to continue maxing out his frame at the next level. His size creates instant mismatches against defenders as they're usually unable to challenge Newman at the ball's high point. Cade also does a great job tracking the ball and has reliable hands at the catch point. Another aspect of Cade's game that stood out was his effectiveness as a blocker in the run game. He works almost as an extension of the line, displaying the physicality and strength to drive defenders off the ball. Don't be surprised if colleges start getting in the mix soon.      Spirit Lake's [player_tooltip player_id='1693007' first='Bennett' last='Stecker'] also makes a solid rankings debut after putting out strong junior tape. Bennett hauled in 19 catches for 224 yards and two receiving touchdowns. As you'll see with most of the players featured here, Bennett already possesses next-level size and length at 6'5" and 200 pounds, which makes him a mismatch for defenders. Watching Bennett's tape, I think he projects best as a tight end, but he also displayed some inside-outside versatility, allowing him to be moved across the formation to take advantage of certain situations. He is strong at the catch point, with great concentration to maintain possession through contact. Solid route running helps him create separation from defenders. Physical blocker who is always looking to finish and will even keep looking for more work downfield.      Pella's [player_tooltip player_id='2048995' first='Logan' last='Van Den Broek'] already had a breakout campaign and is set up for an even bigger senior season next fall. Logan was the leading receiver on the 4A state runner-up squad with 27 catches for 546 yards and seven touchdowns. What stands out about Logan is his top-tier athleticism, including reported 40-yard dash times of 4.6, 14.58 in the 100m hurdles, and a 6'2" high jump, alongside his 6'6", 200-pound frame. We have Logan listed as a tight end, but with his top-end speed, I could see him being used as a flex TE or a bigger-bodied receiver on the outside. Van Den Broek's long strides allow him to get downfield in a flash, and he is very good at tracking and adjusting to the ball in the air. Redzone beast who is a near lock on jump balls.      Despite an up-and-down season for Bettendorf, there is a lot of optimism for next fall as they return a solid core of key players, including tight end [player_tooltip player_id='1924920' first='Caden' last='Gray']. Although Gray didn't have eye-popping numbers with nine catches for 140 yards and a touchdown, his impact was definitely felt on the offense. Gray is another versatile pass catcher who can line up as an in-line tight end, on the outside, or in the slot. He moves well with a solid burst off the line and quickness to eat up the defender's cushion before sharply breaking off at the top of the route. Caden's toughness and size also make him a reliable target who can attack the middle of the defense and haul in catches through contact. Excellent safety valve target who can keep the chains moving.      Clinton junior [player_tooltip player_id='1676704' first='Cooper' last='Belitz'] is a sleeper prospect at the position, who may not have the "flashy" measurables, but can flat-out get after it on the field. Cooper was the River King's leading receiver with 18 receptions for 204 yards and a touchdown during his junior season. After reviewing Cooper's junior tape, I was impressed by his athleticism and playmaking ability after the catch, where he does a great job securing the ball at the catch point and quickly turns upfield to tack on additional yardage. He braces for contact very well and maintains strong balance, keeping him upright during tackle attempts. Willing blocker who can effectively seal off the edge in the run game.     <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   Make sure to follow @PRZ_OscarG for more news on Nebraska and Iowa HS recruiting.

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