More Chicagoland Playmakers That Popped - Risers To Watch in 2026

Several prospects elevated live under the Friday Night Lights during Fall travels. This group will look further establish themselves throughout the offseason.    [player_tooltip player_id='1351662' first='Justin' last='Johnson'] impressed in live action last fall, establishing himself as a legit DB prospect. Watched Johnson play both ways and lined up to return kicks. Where he made his strongest impact was in coverage, assigned to the best athlete on the field, broke up multiple potential big plays. Displayed his physicality throwing his body around. Played with edge and attitude. Offensively lined up at the wildcat in short yardage goal to go situations. A crowd favorite amongst the student section. Johnson lines up at corner, but could also settle in at safety where his speed, physicality and intelligence make him a weapon in the secondary. 2026 should be a big year for [player_tooltip player_id='1351662' first='Justin' last='Johnson'].     Witnessed [player_tooltip player_id='2104955' first='Chase' last='Clark'] put in work at RT during the Fall, and also at multiple postions in the combine setting last offseason. He will likely flex inside at the next level. Clark moves very well, has bend, operates with technically sound mechanics. He frequently pulls within that offensive scheme, displays plenty of lateral agility and fluidity, and can operate at the second level. He will continue to get bigger and stronger and see his interest increase as this offseason progresses. Clark is young for his class, presenting another element to his growth potential.     Eric Jacobs is electric athlete. Watched him in his first start at CB last fall covering the best prospect on the opposite side of the ball. Also made an impact on offense and special teams. Average sized skill athlete who is an aggressive runner with track speed that translated in the return game, where he took a kickoff 81 yards to the house, and in explosion plays at WR. Jacobs is a high ceiling type player with Division I athletic ability and potential at multiple positions. As a former QB, Jacobs is growing as a football player, and should add to his offer list during the camp and combine circuit.     [player_tooltip player_id='1647412' first='Karion' last='Young'] was observed on multiple occasions in the 7v7 setting as well as live on gameday. Young plays both ways but projects to the slot, can be used as an all purpose back, and can be dangerous in the return game. Explosive with good speed and wiggle, Young is sharp with his routes, has very good ball skills, is an easy hands catcher, and shows burst after the catch as he transitions seamlessly to ball carrier. He creates mismatches over the middle, can take the top off the defense, create big plays in the short game, turn corners and make tacklers miss in the open field. Young will be looking to attract his first offers this offseason.     [player_tooltip player_id='1237966' first='Sincere' last='Harris'] is a multisport athlete that transferred into Richards last offseason. Has potential to be big with a great looking frame, length in the limbs and room for growth. Harris displayed his position versatility lining up inside, at end, and out in space. He shows good hand quicks and burst upfield. Overall, above average athletically, has a motor and plays with good effort in pursuit. There is physicality, edge and attitude in his play demeanor. Harris comes with praise for his character and work ethic, and is expected to be a high impact player who should see his stock elevate throughout the offseason circuits.

Several prospects elevated live under the Friday Night Lights during Fall travels. This group will look further establish themselves throughout the offseason.