Take Notice: 2029 Trench Prospects Flashing Early

Andrew Johnson March 25, 2026 @ 08:16 AM

The 2029 class is already starting to show real upside in the trenches, and after getting eyes on these guys in person, the early returns are legit. From size to movement to raw power, this group has the tools that translate, and heading into spring, they're names coaches need to start tracking now.   Kymani Nichols | ATH | 2029 | Bishop Verot | @lovetofoulkyman   Nichols passes the eye test immediately. At 6-5, 275 as a freshman, he already looks like a next-level trench prospect before even turning on the film. What stands out most is how naturally he carries the weight—there's real functional movement and coordination there, not just size. He's shown flashes of power and physicality that are ahead of his age, and when he starts putting it all together technically, the ceiling is extremely high. Early offers from Miami, Louisville, Syracuse, and Boston College back it up. This is a true high-upside prospect who could develop into a major Power 4 recruit if progression stays on track.   Jaxson Russell | OL | 2029 | Lakeland | @Jaxson_Russell7   Russell is already building a strong case as one of the top freshman offensive linemen in the state. At 6-6, 310 pounds, the frame alone puts him in a different category, but it's the flashes of tackle play that really stand out. He's not just big—he's shown the ability to move, adjust, and handle reps at a high level for his age. Earning first-team honors as a freshman says a lot about his impact early on. The offer list (FSU, Georgia, Auburn, Tennessee) reflects what coaches are seeing: a long-term tackle prospect with serious upside. As he continues refining technique and footwork, he has the tools to become a high-level recruit.   Micah Williams | OL/DL | 2029 | Hawthorne | @Micahwilliams55   Williams brings a strong combination of size and versatility at this stage. At 6-3, 260 pounds, he already has a solid base to build on and the ability to contribute on both sides of the ball. Being a two-year starter this early gives him an edge in terms of experience, and it shows in how comfortable he looks in live reps. He's still growing into his body, but the foundation is there—strength, physicality, and the willingness to compete in the trenches. As his technique continues to develop, his versatility could become a major asset moving forward.   Beck Funderburk | OT | 2029 | Lennard | @BeckFunderburk   Funderburk is another young offensive tackle who's already ahead of schedule. Starting all 11 varsity games as a freshman on a playoff team is no small thing, and it shows in his confidence and play style. At 6-5, 290 pounds, he brings a strong, physical presence with good initial pop and the ability to get to the second level. His technique is already solid for his age, and the strength show   [player_tooltip player_id='2045027' first='Darius' last='Little'] | OL | 2029 | Western | @Darius_Little56   Little brings a strong interior build at 6-3, 275 and has been consistently producing at the varsity level since 8th grade. Experience at both center and guard shows in his comfort and control up front. Back-to-back All-South Florida Rising Stars selections reflect that early impact, and with a 4.0 GPA and an FBS offer already in hand, he's building a well-rounded profile with real long-term upside.   High Upside Names to Know:   Jaelin Coach | DL | 2029 | Carol City | @JaelinCoach    Martell Shannon | DL | 2029 | Southridge | @MartellShannon5    [player_tooltip player_id='2045037' first='Chadwic' last='Small'] | OL | 2029 | Archbishop McCarthy | @ChadwicSmall    [player_tooltip player_id='1866283' first='Na'im' last='Jefferson'] | ATH | 2029 | CCC | @Na1mJeffers0n

The 2029 class is already starting to show real upside in the trenches, and after getting eyes on these guys in person, the early returns are legit. From size to movement to raw power, this group has the tools that translate, and heading into spring, they're names coaches need to start tracking now.