Heat Off the Edge: 5A’s Returning C/O 27 Sack Leaders

Florida has long been a hotbed for high school football talent. Year after year, the Sunshine State produces some of the nation's most electric prospects. From game-breaking speed to next-level agility and pure, raw athleticism, Florida athletes consistently set the tone on Friday nights, and college coaches across the country take notice.   With the 2025 season now in the rearview, we're turning our focus to the players whose stock is rising across the state. Every athlete on this list has the tools to play at the next level. Some already hold multiple offers, while others are just beginning to gain traction, but all possess the ability to compete in college football in the right fit.   This group features a mix of nationally regarded standouts and under-the-radar sleepers who deserve serious attention from college programs. Simply put, this list is loaded with difference-makers.   Prep Redzone Florida will continue to support and spotlight these athletes as they chase their goal of playing college football.       Cole Archambeau – DE/Edge, Mosley High Height/Weight: 6'3", 240 lbs Season Stats: 64 tackles, 20 TFL, 14 sacks over 11 games. FACA All-Region Offers: Nicholls State University     Scouting Report: Archambeau is a strong, physical edge defender who plays with good leverage and powerful hands. He consistently sets a firm edge against the run and shows the burst to collapse the pocket, finishing with outstanding production and All-Region honors.     Analysis: Archambeau projects as a reliable, pass rushing edge player with good size and production. His All-Region recognition and college offer give him a solid foundation moving forward.       [player_tooltip player_id='1682682' first='Wyatt' last='Smith'] – DE, St. Thomas Aquinas High Height/Weight: 6'6", 245 lbs Season Stats: 115 tackles, 24 TFL, 13 sacks, 33 QB hurries over 15 games. Committed: Ohio State University     Scouting Report: Smith is a massive, long defensive end with rare size and athleticism. He dominates with length, tremendous pursuit, and the ability to affect plays from sideline to sideline, leading to an outstanding 115 tackles and constant pressure throughout a long season.     Analysis: As a nationally ranked player and Ohio State commit, Smith projects as a high-level defensive end with elite physical tools. His massive production at a top program shows he's ready for Power conference competition.       Kaleb McIntyre – DE/MLB, Riverdale High Height/Weight: 5'11", 260 lbs Season Stats: 90 tackles, 23.5 TFL, 12.5 sacks, 14 QB hurries over 14 games. 1st Team All-State, 1st Team All-Region. 4.85 40yd Offers: Fullerton College, Minot State     Scouting Report: McIntyre is a thick, low-center-of-gravity playmaker who brings surprising quickness and power. He excels at shooting gaps, shedding blockers, and creating havoc in the backfield, earning 1st Team All-State honors with very strong production.     Analysis: McIntyre projects as a tough, explosive front-seven athlete. His All-State recognition and ability to produce big numbers give him nice versatility and upside.       [player_tooltip player_id='1925968' first='Edwardo' last='Thompson'] – DE, Mater Academy Charter → Miami Central High Height/Weight: 6'1", 255 lbs Season Stats: 46 tackles, 21 TFL, 10 sacks, 10 QB hurries, 1 INT over 9 games. Offers: 11 Division 1 scholarship offers     Scouting Report: Thompson is a powerful, disruptive defensive end who wins with strength, athleticism, and quick hands. He consistently gets into the backfield and creates negative plays, showing the versatility to also contribute in coverage with an interception.     Analysis: Thompson projects as a strong, productive edge defender with significant college interest. His high TFL total and 11 D1 offers reflect his disruptive presence.       Malachi Francios – DE, Westwood High Height/Weight: 6'1", 210 lbs Season Stats: 55 tackles, 10 TFL, 7 sacks, 15 QB hurries, 1 INT over 9 games.     Scouting Report: Francios is a high-effort, active edge rusher who generates constant pressure with his motor and quickness. He shows good bend and the ability to affect the passing game, posting an impressive 15 QB hurries in limited games.     Analysis: Francios projects as a high-motor, scheme-disrupting defensive end. His ability to create pressure consistently gives him strong developmental upside.       [player_tooltip player_id='893797' first='Kyle' last='Opsincs'] – TE/DE, Martin County High Height/Weight: 6'2", 220 lbs Season Stats: 60 tackles, 16 TFL, 7 sacks over 10 games. Offers: Chowan University     Scouting Report: Opsincs is a versatile two-way athlete who brings solid size and effort to the edge. He shows good strength and athleticism setting the edge and the ability to rush the passer while also having the frame to develop as a tight end on offense.     Analysis: Opsincs projects as a well-rounded athlete with defensive production. His versatility and existing college offer make him an intriguing prospect for programs looking for multi-positional value.

Florida has long been a hotbed for high school football talent. Year after year, the Sunshine State produces some of the nation's most electric prospects. From game-breaking speed to next-level agility and pure, raw athleticism, Florida athletes consistently set the tone on Friday nights, and college coaches across the country take notice.