C/O 2027 Defenders Ready to Step Into the Spotlight

Florida remains the undisputed powerhouse of high school football talent in America. Year after year, the Sunshine State delivers some of the most explosive, dynamic prospects in the country — athletes blessed with elite speed, breathtaking agility, and raw, game-changing athleticism. On Friday nights, Florida sets the standard, and college coaches nationwide are watching.   As the 2025 season fades in the rearview mirror, all eyes now turn to the Class of 2028 and the rising standouts poised to dominate the 2026 campaign. This list highlights players whose stock is climbing rapidly. Every athlete featured possesses the talent and tools to succeed at the collegiate level. Some are already collecting multiple scholarship offers, while others are emerging sleepers just starting to draw serious interest — but all are capable of making an immediate impact in the right program.   From nationally ranked difference-makers to under-the-radar gems, this group is stacked with future college playmakers. Prep Redzone Florida will continue to spotlight and support these athletes as they pursue their dreams of playing at the next level.       [player_tooltip player_id='1682661' first='Jacarious' last='Pratt'] – ILB, Palm Beach Lakes High Height/Weight: 5'11", 205 lbs Season Stats: 78 tackles, 51 solo, 27 assists, 4 TFL, 1 sack over 9 games. All-County selection   Scouting Report: Pratt is a high-motor inside linebacker who flies around the field and makes plays sideline to sideline. He's a sure tackler who shows good pursuit and has been actively working the camp circuit this offseason, looking to have a big 2026.   Analysis: Pratt's production and All-County recognition reflect the impact he made throughout the season. His tackle numbers and active play style suggest a linebacker capable of consistently affecting games.   John Carrothers – LB, Alonso High Height/Weight: 6'1", 200 lbs Season Stats: 76 tackles, 46 solo, 30 assists, 2 forced fumbles, 18 TFL, 3 sacks over 10 games. 3.75 GPA   Scouting Report: Carrothers is a physical, aggressive linebacker who gets after it in the run game. He shows good burst to the ball and the ability to create negative plays, finishing with strong TFL and sack numbers.   Analysis: Carrothers brings good size and production from the linebacker spot. His high tackle-for-loss total and strong academics make him a well-rounded prospect with upside.   Marguez Burgess – LB, Fort Pierce Central High Height/Weight: 5'10", 210 lbs Season Stats: 74 tackles, 37 solo, 37 assists, 4 TFL, 3 passes defensed, 1 forced fumble, 1 sack over 12 games. 3.4 GPA   Scouting Report: Burgess is a tough, reliable linebacker who plays with good leverage and effort. He's a consistent tackler who contributes in coverage and shows the ability to create turnovers over a full season.   Analysis: Burgess has been a consistent contributor on defense, showing the ability to make tackles, help in coverage, and play with discipline throughout the season. His production across 12 games highlights his reliability.   [player_tooltip player_id='1681962' first='Daniel' last='Blake'] – CB/FS, Spruce Creek High Height/Weight: 5'9", 175 lbs Season Stats: 73 tackles, 43 solo, 30 assists, 7 pass breakups, 3 forced fumbles, 2 TFL over 11 games. 4.4 GPA   Scouting Report: Blake is a quick, active defensive back who plays with a lot of energy. He supports the run well and shows good hands and instincts in coverage, creating turnovers and breaking up passes.   Analysis: Blake's production in both run support and coverage highlights his versatility in the secondary. Combined with his 4.4 GPA, he's shown success both on the field and in the classroom.   Max Edmunds – OLB, Boone High Height/Weight: 5'9", 175 lbs Season Stats: 72 tackles, 36 solo, 36 assists, 1 INT, 7 TFL, 0.5 sack over 10 games. Lacrosse player   Scouting Report: Edmunds is a high-motor outside linebacker who runs around and makes plays. His lacrosse background helps him with fluid movement and hand-eye coordination, showing up in his pursuit and ability to get to the ball.   Analysis: Edmunds brings athleticism and range to the linebacker position. His multi-sport background shows up in the way he moves and pursues the football. He plays hard and should continue improving with more football-specific reps.   Amir Sameem – LB, Taravella High Height/Weight: 5'8", 183 lbs Season Stats: 71 tackles, 52 solo, 19 assists, 1 sack, 2 forced fumbles, 4 TFL over 9 games. 3.1 GPA   Scouting Report: Sameem is a compact, explosive linebacker who plays with great quickness and aggression. He's a sure tackler who closes quickly and consistently finds ways to impact plays around the ball.   Analysis: Sameem brings a lot of energy and playmaking ability despite his size. His high solo tackle total shows he's a guy who consistently gets to the ball carrier.

Florida remains the undisputed powerhouse of high school football talent in America. Year after year, the Sunshine State delivers some of the most explosive, dynamic prospects in the country — athletes blessed with elite speed, breathtaking agility, and raw, game-changing athleticism. On Friday nights, Florida sets the standard, and college coaches nationwide are watching.

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C/O 2027 Defenders Ready to Step Into the Spotlight

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