The Watch List: Unranked Trio From the Class of ‘27

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The next wave of rankings for the upcoming sophomore class are set to be released on Monday. However, the search for talent in other graduating classes doesn't stop.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This summer has been massive for the recruitment of the Class of ‘27, as several prospects have received offers recently. Not only that, but there have been multiple verbal commitment announcements as well. There's even still plenty of under the radar talent waiting to be discovered.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>With the momentum this class is carrying into the 2026 campaign, it's only right they receive a fresh set of rankings. Folks can expect these rankings to drop in July, and they can also expect to see these three prospects debut. The trio should produce a lot of interest this fall.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Ben Collins</strong> - Emporia, 6'3”, 210, Edge&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Up first is Collins of Emporia. He quietly had a strong junior campaign in 2025. The 6-foot-3, 210-pound edge rusher finished last season with 35 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, and seven TFL's. He has the potential to top those numbers as a senior, as he brings tenacity and athleticism to the table. Speaking of his tenacity, he's also a hard runner to bring down when toting the rock.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2058132' first='Parker' last='Pinks'] - Salina Central, 6'4”, 300, OL</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Salina Central Mustangs are on a roll with their development of offensive linemen. One recently committed to a <em>D-II</em> program, and Pinks could be next up to receive high-level offers. He was a key piece to the Mustangs' state championship offensive line, as he held things down at center. Pinks has good snaps, and displays an understanding of blocking schemes. He also possesses the ideal frame for the next level.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Steven Cantrell</strong> - Washburn Rural, 6'4”, 270, DL</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Finally there's Cantrell of Washburn Rural. This pass rusher has so much upside, and possesses multiple traits that college coaches love. Cantrell's versatility can help create mismatches, as he possesses the physicality to play inside as a 3-Tech, and he has the athleticism to be a disrupter off the edge. He does a great job of using his length to bat passes down, which can help create turnovers. The senior-to-be is due for a big season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->