Next in Line: Metro Underclassmen All-Conference Selections

<p>The Metro League was one of the deepest and most competitive leagues in 6A this past season, producing multiple playoff teams and a wide range of talent across the board. While the headlines often focused on veteran-heavy rosters and established stars, a strong group of sophomores quietly carved out meaningful roles and earned all-conference recognition. Even without a first-team underclassman selection this year, the second- and third-team lists show just how much young talent is already impacting varsity football in the Metro. From productive receivers and physical linebackers to emerging defensive backs and linemen, this group represents the next wave of players set to shape the league. As programs like Mountainside, Westview, and Beaverton continue to reload, these underclassmen will be central to the Metro's outlook over the next two seasons. This list highlights the sophomores who announced themselves early and are positioned to take even bigger steps forward.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>First Team</strong></h2>   <p><strong>There Were No Underclassmen Named First-Team All Metro League</strong></p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Second Team</strong></h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Laraway established himself as a dependable presence in the middle of the field for Mountainside, earning second-team recognition as a sophomore. He showed the ability to play downhill, finish tackles, and consistently be around the football. For a young linebacker, his instincts and comfort at the varsity level stood out over the course of the season. As his physical development continues, Laraway projects as a future defensive leader for the Mavericks.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Smith had one of the more productive sophomore seasons in the Metro, finishing with 512 receiving yards and three touchdowns while also contributing on defense. His ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball made him a matchup problem and a valuable piece for Westview. Offensively, he showed reliable hands and the ability to create plays in space. With another offseason of growth, Smith looks poised to become one of the league's premier two-way athletes.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Third Team</strong></h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Lutu emerged as a young linebacker capable of handling varsity speed and physicality in the Metro League. He consistently showed toughness at the point of attack and the ability to work through traffic to find the ball. For a sophomore, his comfort in live reps was evident. Lutu gives Beaverton a foundational piece to build around defensively moving forward.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Conner continued Mountainside's strong showing on the underclassmen list with his third-team selection. He demonstrated good awareness and competitiveness in the secondary, holding his own against upperclassmen throughout the season. His ability to read plays and close space made him a steady presence on the back end. With another year in the system, Conner has the tools to become a core defensive piece.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">De La Cruz brought physicality and versatility to the Westview offense, earning third-team honors as a sophomore. De La Cruz played a role in keeping the Wildcats balanced. His style of play fits well in a league that values toughness and efficiency. As his offensive responsibilities grow, De La Cruz could become a much bigger name in the Metro.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Lopez earned his spot as one of the league's top young linemen by stepping into varsity football and handling the physical demands up front. For a sophomore offensive lineman, simply surviving in the Metro is impressive, Lopez did more than that. He showed toughness, effort, and the willingness to battle on every snap. His early experience gives Sunset a valuable building block in the trenches.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Lorenzo was one of the bright spots for Southridge, earning third-team all-conference recognition as a defensive back. He showed the ability to compete in coverage and support in the run game, which is no small task in a league full of skilled receivers. His experience this year should accelerate his development into a more complete secondary player. Expect Lorenzo's role to expand as he grows into his frame and confidence.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Williams made his mark in the trenches as a sophomore, earning third-team honors after battling older linemen all season. He flashed the physical tools and motor needed to disrupt plays up front. Competing at the varsity level so early will pay dividends as he continues to refine his technique and strength. Williams is the type of interior defender programs build around.</p>

The Metro League was one of the deepest and most competitive leagues in 6A this past season, producing multiple playoff teams and a wide range of talent across the board. While the headlines often focused on veteran-heavy rosters and established stars, a strong group of sophomores quietly carved out meaningful roles and earned all-conference recognition. Even without a first-team underclassman selection this year, the second- and third-team lists show just how much young talent is already impacting varsity football in the Metro. From productive receivers and physical linebackers to emerging defensive backs and linemen, this group represents the next wave of players set to shape the league. As programs like Mountainside, Westview, and Beaverton continue to reload, these underclassmen will be central to the Metro's outlook over the next two seasons. This list highlights the sophomores who announced themselves early and are positioned to take even bigger steps forward.