Small School Gems Pt. 1

As much attention as our large school athletes get, and rightfully so, there are plenty of small-town athletes going to under-the-radar schools that may get overlooked. In this series, we're going to be looking at those athletes that may get overlooked a little, but make no mistake, are absolutely on track to contribute at the next level. We'll start with some seniors that are ready to make waves in 2026.    We've evaluated Max in the past, and we think very highly of his game at Prep Redzone. Everything I have seen makes me think he is a G5 level player at least. His junior season tape is impressive. His step off the ball is borderline elite, and his explosion is superb. His motor is crazy, and his ability to pursue sideline to sideline is as well. He has a swim move and a rip that are both nearly impossible to stop, and he has no issue using his power to bull rush weaker tackles. From time to time, they even slid him inside a little and let him clog the middle, which he does nicely thanks to his strong lower half that allows him to anchor down in a gap. Keep an eye out for this game wrecker this fall.     Brock put up some seriously impressive stuff in film in 2025. He's a big body that can move in the open field and pack a serious punch. When he gets out into open space, he locks on and buries his man. When he pulls, his first step wastes no movement and blows guys 5+ yards out away from the hole. His passing sets are a lot less repped so he will definitely need to keep improving there, but his mentality and attitude are all there. He showed flashes of what he can do at our PRZMI Stock Up Showcase just a couple of months ago, which gives me the confidence to say he can be an all around offensive lineman at the next level. Huge 2026 for Brock incoming, no doubt.     In his junior season, Joel did a lot that you'd expect from a QB, but at a pretty spectacular level. Joel has a big arm and can put the ball in the money down the field. A number of his passes found him evading pressure, stepping up and hitting guys while he was on the run. He stays calm under pressure, keeps his eyes downfield, and rips it to his receivers with a quick trigger. He also thrives in the option game, being able to read a defender and make a split second decision. Leslie has been fun to follow over the last couple of years, and guys like Joel have elevated that program.     Max is a really interesting prospect, and someone I believe has value at the next level. Doing his best work at defensive end, I love his quick get off and ability to use his hands to keep defenders away from his chest. Once free, he has the motor to carry him to the ball. He does great stopping the run, but I love his potential as an EDGE pass rusher at the next level, with really solid measurables and great motor. He's a grinder that had a big role in 2025, but 2026 could be absurd with some more work in the weight room.     Caleb put together a pretty sound season in 2025. His highlights are a little short, but it looks like he has plenty of highlights at receiver that show him being able to make some difficult catches. Quite a few plays show him climbing the ladder and having to make a contested catch between or over defenders. He also has a good vision in the return game, and is a threat to take back a punt at any given moment. PW continues to churn out talent, and Caleb is no different!

As much attention as our large school athletes get, and rightfully so, there are plenty of small-town athletes going to under-the-radar schools that may get overlooked. In this series, we're going to be looking at those athletes that may get overlooked a little, but make no mistake, are absolutely on track to contribute at the next level. We'll start with some seniors that are ready to make waves in 2026.