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Underrated Prospects Who Could Explode This Season

Underrated Prospects Who Could Explode This Season
Earnest Daniels
Earnest Daniels January 26, 2026 @ 01:48 PM
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Zamarr Raiford
Zamarr Raiford 5'8" | 155 lbs | WR | 2028
NJ
Ziyon Collins
Ziyon Collins 5'8" | 145 lbs | WR/DB | 2027
NJ
Takiesse Barnes
Takiesse Barnes WR | 2027
NJ
Nick Dimino
Nick Dimino 5'6" | 162 lbs | ATH | 2027
NJ
Dylan Granzow
Dylan Granzow 6'1" | 165 lbs | RB/WR | 2028
NJ
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1658353"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-697796ff3b10a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"> [player_tooltip player_id='1658353' first='Ziyon' last='Collins'], a player whose game continues to trend upward. At 5'8”–5'9”, 160 pounds, Collins thrives in an offense that maximizes his skill set and consistently puts the ball in his hands.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>To start, South Brunswick uses him creatively. They get him involved on jet sweeps, motion looks, and underneath touches, allowing him to create after the catch. From there, Collins shows quickness, vision, and the ability to turn short gains into explosive plays.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>At the same time, he has flashed as a true receiver. When asked to push the field vertically, he tracks the ball well and finishes through traffic, showing comfort making contested catches downfield. That versatility forces defenses to account for him on every snap.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Defensively, Collins adds even more value. As a cornerback, he plays tight, competitive coverage and moves naturally with shifty receivers, making him especially effective in the slot. His quick feet and instincts allow him to stay in phase and challenge throws.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Ultimately, if South Brunswick continues to feature him in space and leverage his movement skills, Collins has a real chance to break out. With another year of development, he is positioning himself to emerge as a legitimate underrated prospect and a player college staffs will begin to take seriously.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/20484750/68f55b50d919868e1ed2ca06' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-697796ff3b306"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1880339"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-697796ff3b387"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">&nbsp;[player_tooltip player_id='1880339' first='Zamarr' last='Raiford'], one of the most underrated playmakers in the state. While he may fly under the radar due to where he plays, his impact on the field is impossible to miss once you turn on the film.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>At 6'0”, around 170 pounds, Raiford does everything for J.P. Stevens. He lines up at wildcat quarterback, throws the football, pushes the ball vertically, and then turns around and makes plays as a receiver downfield. Simply put, the offense runs through him.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Moreover, his versatility shows up in every phase. He touches the ball constantly, contributes on special teams, and consistently finds ways to generate offense. His ability to handle multiple roles while remaining productive sets him apart from many of his peers.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Because of that, Raiford is a player to watch closely this season. If he continues to produce and gain exposure, college programs will start to recognize how his all-around skill set can translate to the next level. With more eyes on him, [player_tooltip player_id='1880339' first='Zamarr' last='Raiford'] has a real chance to break out and elevate his recruitment in a big way.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/23283945/68eabc426d12978d8c173e88' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6977c51755bac"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1657037"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69779e7c45182"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='1657037' first='Takiesse' last='Barnes'] is a true hidden gem who is poised to generate serious buzz this offseason and into the 2026 season. From the first snap, his explosiveness jumps off the screen.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Barnes hits the hole with urgency, and once he gets into the open field, his speed becomes a real problem for defenses. More importantly, he pairs that burst with strong vision. He sees lanes develop before they fully open and consistently puts himself in a position to create chunk plays. While he is still developing as a polished runner, his raw athleticism already separates him from most defenders he faces.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In addition, Barnes impacts the game on the defensive side of the ball. As a safety, he plays downhill with confidence, delivers contact in the run game, and uses that same explosiveness to close space and make plays on the football. His two-way value only adds to his upside.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Because of that, Barnes is a player whose recruitment could rise quickly. Once college coaches turn on the film and see his burst, speed, and overall athletic profile, the interest will follow. With his current Division I offer from Wofford, [player_tooltip player_id='1657037' first='Takiesse' last='Barnes'] is well-positioned to turn an underrated label into a full-fledged breakout year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19587439/68f518efd919868e1ed2898f' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69779e7c45482"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1227520"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6977c51757835"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='1227520' first='Dylan' last='Granzow'], who emerged as Holy Spirit's most reliable and explosive playmaker. Whenever the ball touched his hands, he found a way to create.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Primarily, Granzow did his damage at wide receiver. He consistently won underneath, created after the catch, and showed the ability to stretch the field vertically. Just as important, he played with strong concentration and awareness, finishing catches in traffic and capitalizing on opportunities downfield.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>At the same time, his versatility elevated his value. Holy Spirit moved him around the formation, lining him up at wide receiver, running back, and even tight end. That flexibility speaks to his football IQ and his willingness to learn multiple roles. Moreover, his production backed it up, as he accounted for numerous touchdowns and even added a defensive score, flashing elusiveness in the open field.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">At 6'0”, 175 pounds, Granzow brings a complete athletic profile and an all-purpose skill set. Moving forward, as more programs evaluate his film, he has a real chance to gain traction on the recruiting trail. If he continues to build on last season, [player_tooltip player_id='1227520' first='Dylan' last='Granzow'] is positioned to open eyes and shed the underrated label with a strong junior ye</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/24642456/692e4c63cc386d237960bc7a' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6977c51757870"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1654018"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6977c517578c5"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Rounding out the list is [player_tooltip player_id='1654018' first='Nick' last='Dimino'], a true two-way contributor for Marlboro who impacts the game on both sides of the ball. While he sees time at quarterback, his long-term upside clearly shines on defense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Offensively, Dimino competes. He escapes pressure, extends plays with his legs, and stays aggressive, pushing the ball downfield. While arm strength limits him at times, his toughness and playmaking ability allow him to move the chains and keep defenses honest.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Defensively, however, Dimino elevates his game. As a defensive back, he plays with strong instincts and awareness. He reads route concepts well, anticipates throws, and consistently puts himself in the right position. In addition, he tackles with confidence, especially in space, and shows a willingness to trigger downhill on screens and perimeter plays.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Moreover, his one-on-one reps stand out. He tracks the football, understands leverage, and maintains the proper relationship between the receiver and the quarterback. Because of that, he rarely looks out of position.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Ultimately, Dimino's future is in the secondary. If he continues to sharpen the mental side of the game and refine his technique, he has the tools to play slot corner, outside corner, or deep safety. As an underrated defender with strong instincts, [player_tooltip player_id='1654018' first='Nick' last='Dimino'] is well-positioned to break out and earn attention this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/22386473/6747d6af35352caea58a49b1' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6977c517578f2"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
Ziyon Collins

Ziyon Collins

NJ
WR/DB
HEIGHT 5'8"
WEIGHT 145
POS WR/DB
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Ziyon
Collins WR/DB
Class
2027
Height
5'8"
Weight
145
HS
South Brunswick
|
NJ
Underrated Prospects Who Could Explode This Season
Ziyon Collins , a player whose game continues to trend upward. At 5’8”–5’9”, 160 pounds, Collins thrives in...
Written by Earnest Daniels
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Ziyon Collins

Instagram Twitter
State: New Jersey
School: South Brunswick
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Zamarr Raiford

Zamarr Raiford

HEIGHT 5'8"
WEIGHT 155
POS WR
CLASS 2028
View Player
​
Zamarr
Raiford WR
Class
2028
Height
5'8"
Weight
155
HS
J.P. Stevens
|
NJ
Underrated Prospects Who Could Explode This Season
  Zamarr Raiford , one of the most underrated playmakers in the state. While he may fly under...
Written by Earnest Daniels
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Zamarr Raiford

State: New Jersey
School: J.P. Stevens
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Takiesse Barnes

Takiesse Barnes

NJ
WR
POS WR
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Takiesse
Barnes WR
Class
2027
HS
Pleasantville
|
NJ
Underrated Prospects Who Could Explode This Season
Takiesse Barnes is a true hidden gem who is poised to generate serious buzz this offseason and into...
Written by Earnest Daniels
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Takiesse Barnes

State: New Jersey
School: Pleasantville
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Dylan Granzow

Dylan Granzow

NJ
RB/WR
HEIGHT 6'1"
WEIGHT 165
POS RB/WR
CLASS 2028
View Player
​
Dylan
Granzow RB/WR
Class
2028
Height
6'1"
Weight
165
HS
Holy Spirit
|
NJ
Underrated Prospects Who Could Explode This Season
Dylan Granzow , who emerged as Holy Spirit’s most reliable and explosive playmaker. Whenever the ball touched his...
Written by Earnest Daniels
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Dylan Granzow

Twitter
State: New Jersey
School: Holy Spirit
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Nick Dimino

Nick Dimino

NJ
ATH
HEIGHT 5'6"
WEIGHT 162
POS ATH
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Nick
Dimino ATH
Class
2027
Height
5'6"
Weight
162
HS
Marlboro
|
NJ
Underrated Prospects Who Could Explode This Season
Rounding out the list is Nick Dimino , a true two-way contributor for Marlboro who impacts the game...
Written by Earnest Daniels
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Nick Dimino

State: New Jersey
School: Marlboro
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

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