Loaded Receiving Corps Heading into the '26 Season

*Grab a Prep Redzone annual subscription at 30% off with code Johnson30! No better time than now!*   There are dozens of teams across WI that are locked, loaded, and ready to let it fly when Week 1 rolls around! A big reason why is because of the collection of talent at the pass catching positions that many of these teams are equipped with. Whether it be WRs, TEs, or a combination of the two, we are set to see some impressive aerial assaults take place on Friday nights. These types of receiving corps are a QB's dream, and for the QBs on the rosters of the teams we discuss today those dreams have come true. Coaches, this isn't just about production either. Many of the athletes discussed here are also very talented individually and looking to continue playing at the next level. So dive in and see if you can't find future playmakers for your rosters!   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hamilton Sussex</h2>   Returning Talent & Production   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1155127' first='Drew' last='Olsson']: 59 Receptions, 708 Yards, 4 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='2103574' first='Alex' last='Restivo']: 40 Receptions, 796 Yards, 4 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1627993' first='Dane' last='Warren']: 43 Receptions, 465 Yards, 2 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1602970' first='Avery' last='Ash']: 9 Receptions, 67 Yards, 2 TDs</li> </ul>   2026 Outlook   Hamilton Sussex is no stranger to explosive offense. Year over year they have made themselves comfortable at the top of the charts for offensive production and it has led to a lot of team success. It looks like things are lining up for 2026 to continue that trend. They return four of their top five leaders in receiving and also return their QB1 from 2025. Not to mention they will have a great OL giving Erdmann the time needed to find these weapons downfield. The combination of talent, experience, and chemistry between QB and WRs/TEs is going to make the Chargers a tough matchup for every defense they face in 2026.   Leading the way is '27 [player_tooltip player_id='1155127' first='Drew' last='Olsson']. The explosive WR carves up defenses with sudden route running and explosive acceleration. After the catch he is a shifty playmaker who is able to manufacture yards after the catch on a consistent basis. Fellow '27 WR, [player_tooltip player_id='2103574' first='Alex' last='Restivo'], returns as one of the most explosive downfield threats in the state. He averaged 16.6 yds/rec in 2025 and with his speed that is a number he could beat in 2026. The Chargers have a duo of talented TEs who are able to provide a security blanket to Erdmann too. [player_tooltip player_id='1627993' first='Dane' last='Warren'] leads the way, a prospect with speed to attack the seam and consistently get behind LBs with very reliable hands. Fellow '28 TE [player_tooltip player_id='1602970' first='Avery' last='Ash'] will be looking to make even more of an impact in 2026. In '25 we saw him utilized in the quick passing game where he could create yards after the catch with physical running. Plus he stepped up plenty as a blocker and should only build on that impact. This receiving corps is going to be a tough matchup, forcing defenses to have cover inside and outside extremely well. Good luck to teams trying to find ways to match up with all this talent.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Delavan - Darien</h2>   Returning Talent & Production   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1452367' first='Kaden' last='Garbe']: 73 Receptions, 1,324 Yards, 12 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1734109' first='Braedyn' last='McKean']: 66 Receptions, 1,100 Yards, 13 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Daniel O'Grady: 28 Receptions, 427 Yards, 7 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Gavin Green: 16 Receptions, 239 Yards, 1 TD</li> </ul>   2026 Outlook   When it comes to returning talent and production Delavan- Darien is in position to be the top passing offense in 2026. Their top four leading receiving threats from 2025 all return in 2026 for their senior seasons with plenty of successful experience under their belts. The Comets also return one of the most productive QBs in the state in '27 QB [player_tooltip player_id='1620367' first='Quintin' last='Arizola']. So a team that finished 2nd in the state in passing in 2025 is in position to be even better in 2026. A scary thought for the defenses on their schedule. Hopes are high for a team that was able to finish 7-4 last year. That might be just the start.   Looking into the individual talent, [player_tooltip player_id='1452367' first='Kaden' last='Garbe'] leads the way. A 2027 who is a machine at getting open quickly. He has the route running, speed, and ball tracking to be able to effectively attack every level of the field. He is one of the top uncommitted seniors at his position. Joining him is fellow 2027 WR [player_tooltip player_id='1734109' first='Braedyn' last='McKean']. McKean is a slot monster. The kid shines at getting open quickly, using his quick twitch athletic tools to gain that instant separation. At 6'3" 205 lbs, Daniel O'Grady plays the TE position for D-D. He lines up out wide, in the slot and out wide, and has proven to be a kid who can use his size to create space, but also has a second gear to stretch the field. He is a load to bring down after the tackle and a noteworthy talent at LB as well. Definitely a kid to get on radars. Gavin Green gives this group outstanding depth and playmaking ability. He averaged just under 15 yds/rec in 2025. The '27 WR is so slippery after the catch. This is a group that could put up elite numbers in 2026. The entire group of 2027s is still uncommitted too. Don't miss out!   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Waunakee</h2>   Talent & Production   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='2103479' first='Jackson' last='Kidd']: 19 Receptions, 187 Yards, 1 TD</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1729995' first='Mac' last='Johnson']: 5 Receptions, 45 Yards, 2 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Andrew Mussallem: 9 Receptions, 146 Yards, 2 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='2226743' first='Carter' last='Hill']: 2 Receptions, 17 Yards</li> </ul>   2026 Outlook   As you can see from the stat lines, this is a potential breakout year for this group. However, the production only tells part of the story. TE [player_tooltip player_id='1729995' first='Mac' last='Johnson'] is coming off a 2025 season where he earned All Conference honors for his role filling in on the OL. Mussallem and Hill were primary depth pieces in 2025 and should see a big uptick in their snap counts this fall. The Warriors offense definitely leans on the run, but the receiving talent will be there to utilize when they put the ball in presumed new QB1 [player_tooltip player_id='1692806' first='Aaron' last='Trudell'].   In terms of next level talent, [player_tooltip player_id='1729995' first='Mac' last='Johnson'] leads the way. A TE with the prototypical frame, traditional talents between his receiving threat and blocking impact, and the athletic tools to create mismatches vs LBs and safeties. [player_tooltip player_id='2103479' first='Jackson' last='Kidd'] is no pushover either. He is one of the top athletes at his position in the state and has the athleticism to be able to turn quick passes into big sparks for the offense. [player_tooltip player_id='2226743' first='Carter' last='Hill'] is a potential breakout star this fall. He had a breakout summer, showing off size and some explosive athletic traits. Look for him to show off WR1 traits on the outside for the Warriors and dominate in the redzone. Andrew Mussallem is the explosive weapon in the bunch. The quick athlete who can get off the line clean and quick, then stretch the field and corral the ball in traffic. He is going to be a kid that a QB can rely on to create quick separation early in the play. Don't be surprised to see some strong numbers from this group as they look to put together a well balanced offensive attack.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Arrowhead</h2>   Returning Talent & Production   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1617750' first='Logan' last='Crowley']: 27 Receptions, 398 Yards, 2 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Benjamin Prescher: 9 Receptions, 115 Yards</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1288210' first='Tre' last='Oiler']: 8 Receptions, 106 Yards, 1 TD</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Trey Resch: '27 WR Who didn't play football in '25, 100M & 200M Dash State Champ</li> </ul>   2026 Outlook   Next up we have the reigning D1 State Champions. This team has the potential to be one of the best offenses in the state. They were apparent of the best backfield tandems article already. Now they are back with the potential loading across their 2026 receiving corps. Making that potential even higher is the fact they return QB [player_tooltip player_id='1083381' first='Nolan' last='Hanson'], a 2027 who is committed to play D1 football at Drake University. The OL should also be a talented bunch to give Hanson the time he will need.   Leading the way for the group is '28 TE [player_tooltip player_id='1288210' first='Tre' last='Oiler'] who has proven to be a national level recruit. He brings elite size, athleticism, and ball skills to the field and should be an extremely reliable target and mismatch for his QB. '27 WR [player_tooltip player_id='1617750' first='Logan' last='Crowley'] stepped up for the Warhawks when he was needed in 2025. Now he looks ready to battle for the WR1 spot on the team. The '27 WR has proven to be a savvy route runner who can force DBs to put themselves out of position with his head fakes. He has the speed to turn a misstep into a lot of separation. Ben Prescher is a kid who could find a larger role in 2026. We saw him get some run in 2025 in the slot where he was able to find soft spots and contribute as a blocker. This group will also welcome Trey Resch to the team and position. Trey is a new name to football, but the '27 is coming off a spring where he won the State Championship for the 100M and 200M dashes. Plus he was the Conference 8 POY in basketball. Safe to say an elite athlete and addition.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Kenosha Bradford</h2>   Returning Talent & Production   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1226891' first='Larenzz' last='Pratt']: 35 Receptions, 577 Yards, 3 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Marvin Jones: 18 Receptions, 208 Yards, 2 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Corbin Burrell- Warfield: 7 Receptions, 99 Yards, 1 TD</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1395902' first='Nicholas' last='Payne Jr'].: Transferred in from Racine Case</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1288265' first='Jamarion' last='Morris']: JV Contributor in '25</li> </ul>   2026 Outlook   It is turning into an embarrassment of riches for Kenosha Bradford as they have a combination of elite returning talent and outstanding transfer talent coming together in the WR room. They return QB Nolberto Rosales, a 2028 who led the team in passing in 2025 and has been putting in a ton of work this offseason. They also return two of their top three leading receiving threats from last season. Open enrollment has also allowed them to add the #1 player in 2029 in [player_tooltip player_id='1395902' first='Nicholas' last='Payne Jr'].   Leading all this receiving talent is 2027 ATH [player_tooltip player_id='1226891' first='Larenzz' last='Pratt'], an SDSU commit. The #1 ATH in the state is outstanding on both sides of the ball. He is blessed with an elite blend of athleticism and strength that has made him a threat to create a highlight reel play any time he touches the ball. Corbin Burrell- Warfield is at his best on defense, but at TE he offers the ability to create yards after the catch with his violent play style. '28 Marvin Jones enters his junior season ready to breakout. In 2025 he flashed a deep threat, ball skills, and a fearlessness needed to play over the middle. [player_tooltip player_id='1288265' first='Jamarion' last='Morris'] is a two way talent that will be hard to keep off the field in 2026. He is building a long, strong frame. Looking back at his sophomore tape, he stands out form the crowd on the JV field, telling me he is ready for a bump up to Friday nights in some fashion. Rounding out the group is the new addition, 2029 [player_tooltip player_id='1395902' first='Nicholas' last='Payne Jr']. The elite WR talent has the length, speed, and ball skills to win every rep. Look for this year to be his breakout year as he looks to be a constant varsity starter out wide.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Lake Mills</h2>   Returning Talent & Production   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Collin Christian: 34 Receptions, 702 Yards, 6 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Jackson Roberts: 25 Receptions, 502 Yards, 5 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1336912' first='Dylan' last='Brinkmann']: 14 Receptions, 283 Yards, 5 TDs</li> </ul>   2026 Outlook   This is another team that will be in the running for the most explosive and productive offense in 2026. They were Top 5 in passing in 2025 and they return the best QB in the entire state of Wisconsin, and three of their top four leading receiving threats from 2025. They will also have an OL with experience and talent ready to give QB [player_tooltip player_id='1226894' first='Tyler' last='Wollin'] all day to pick apart a defense. Plus they return their RB1 to help provide a balanced threat to the defense.   This is an exciting year because the L-Cats produced like they did while WR1 [player_tooltip player_id='1336912' first='Dylan' last='Brinkmann'] missed a chunk of the season. But he is back and ready to show he is better than ever in 2026. Between his speed, explosive route running, and ability to adjust to the ball wherever it is at, the 2027 WR should be able to more than double what he did in 2025. Joining him are more talented 2027s. Collin Christian led the way in every statistical category. The 6'2" 195 lbs athlete is a smooth target. That smooth and effortless route running is deceptive as he can go from creating space with that route running to simply running away from the field after the catch with the speed he has. The bigger weapon clearly has the playmaking abilities to make things happen when he has the football. The 5'9" 175 lbs Jackson Roberts proved to be a mismatch in 2025. His speed was utilized all over the formation and off motion to get him the ball with space to work. Give him an inch and Roberts can take it a mile. I'm anticipating video game numbers from this group in 2026. It is going to be fun to watch!   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Waukesha South</h2>   Returning Talent & Production   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1862982' first='Keegan' last='DeGeorge']: 63 Receptions, 979 Yards, 3 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Richard Leckie: 56 Receptions, 769 Yards, 5 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>James Hopson: 24 Receptions, 283 Yards, 3 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Cooper Wiltz: 10 Receptions, 56 Yards</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='2124830' first='Owen' last='Schmitt']: 2029, Varsity punter in 2025</li> </ul>   2026 Outlook   Waukesha South is home to an extremely loaded group of receiving talent. They have a lot of mouths to feed, but 2027 QB [player_tooltip player_id='1226901' first='Jordan' last='Garcia'] proved that he is up to the task of dishing out the ball to all his weapons. It will be interesting to see how they implement up and coming talent in the passing game with all the upperclassmen talent that they also return. A good problem to have. Of the seven athletes to catch a pass in 2025, six return in 2026. Defensive backfields are going to have a hard time finding athletes to matchup with all these weapons on a week to week and down to down basis.   Leading the way is WR [player_tooltip player_id='1862982' first='Keegan' last='DeGeorge']. A 2027 WR with speed to get vertical, quickness to get clean releases off the line when pressed, and the hands and ball skills to go attack the ball in the air. The playmaker finds a way to come down with the ball. Richard Leckie is a three way difference maker for the Blackshirts, shining at WR, DB, and return specialist. Richard brings all the speed and agility needed to thrive in space at the high school level and has enough to be a legitimate recruit for the next level. James Hopson provides a reliable option at the TE position. The big potential breakout candidate for the team is 2029 TE [player_tooltip player_id='2124830' first='Owen' last='Schmitt']. Owen has put on a show every time we saw him this spring and summer. He already has built a great frame for the position and impressed with how smooth he is at that size and age along with the well developed athletic tools he already has developed. It will be hard to keep him off the field this fall. He is in the running for TE1 in the Class of 2029.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bay Port</h2>   Returning Talent & Production   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1573452' first='Jackson' last='Otradovec']: 37 Receptions, 677 Yards, 7 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Ethan Orlando: 23 Receptions, 441 Yards, 4 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Owen Sartorelli: 17 Receptions, 328 Yards, 2 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='2103547' first='Brady' last='Suda']: 5 Receptions, 45 Yards, 1 TD</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1733765' first='Clark' last='Butler']: Missed 2025 with ACL injury</li> </ul>   2026 Outlook   It is impressive to see the way that the Pirates have been able to turnover their talent. They lose so much talent from their back to back Madison appearances, yet they will be ready to field a very competitive team in 2026. The Pirates do return three of their top four receiving threats from 2025 and also have a 2027 coming off injury who is sure to create fireworks this fall. The group will be working with a new QB1, but [player_tooltip player_id='1632570' first='Braydon' last='Maney'] has the talent to step in and take over very effectively. So the standards shouldn't change for this team despite the turnover.   Leading the way is 2027 WR/ATH [player_tooltip player_id='1573452' first='Jackson' last='Otradovec']. The '27 playmaker is utilized all over the field from WR to RB to DB. This is a kid that you want to manufacture touches for and let his superior talents shine. Speed is the name of the game when it comes to Jackson. He erases cushions, and his speed is such a threat that he can get DBs to bite hard with head fakes. Plus Jackson has high level ball skills to give his QB confidence in feeding him the rock. Ethan Orlando is coming off a season that showed off his big play threat, averaging 19.2 yards/rec. That type of big play threat while also having 6'2" 185 lbs size is a tough matchup for DBs. The 2027 is also a dang good baseball player. Not to be outdone, Owen Sartorelli put up 19.3 yds/rec in 2025. His 2025 highlights feature his outstanding track speed and acceleration over and over. TE [player_tooltip player_id='2103547' first='Brady' last='Suda'] is ready for a big role and coming off a summer that earned him multiple next level offers. While his 5 receptions doesn't jump off the page, he was such a great blocker in 2025 that it earned him All Conference honors. A big year is in store for him. Lastly, we could see the breakout of WR [player_tooltip player_id='1733765' first='Clark' last='Butler']. Heading into 2025 we were excited to see a breakout from him with his elite track speed and ability to get behind the defense and reel in passes. We had a wait a year because of an off-season injury, but the time is now for the explosive 2027.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mondovi</h2>   Returning Talent & Production   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='2055377' first='Beau' last='Spindler']: 49 Receptions, 899 Yards, 8 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1715430' first='Griffin' last='Rud']: 32 Receptions, 361 Yards, 5 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Issaiah Hill: 15 Receptions, 255 Yards, 2 TDs</li> </ul>   2026 Outlook   A small school passing attack to keep an eye on is the Mondovi Buffaloes. They were one of the state's best offenses in 2025 with their high flying passing attack and explosive rushing abilities between their RBs and QB. They rode that high flying offense deep into the playoffs in 2025 and expectations should be even higher this year with all the talent and production they return. Their QB1, RB1, and top two leaders in receiving will all be back and ready for big years. Don't be surprised to see Mondovi putting up video game numbers and playing well into November this fall.   Looking at the individual receiving talent, '28 [player_tooltip player_id='2055377' first='Beau' last='Spindler'] leads the way. Beau is a big-bodied WR prospect, checking in at 6'3" 195 lbs. Beau is a smooth athlete who gets open with a combo of size and smooth route running. He has natural ball skills, surprising speed when he can open up in the open field, and will run hard behind his pads to finish plays. Joining Beau is '28 [player_tooltip player_id='1715430' first='Griffin' last='Rud']. Rud is a highly productive two-way athlete for the Buffaloes. He is an effective slot receiver who wins with his route running and quickness out of breaks. Issaiah Hill rounds out the group, being a reliable option from the TE position. Hill is the only 2027 in the group, so this offense could just be getting started. A scary thought for other small school defenses.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">McFarland</h2>   Returning Talent & Production   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1620345' first='Parker' last='Roh']: 43 Receptions, 581 Yards, 7 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Grayson Gauwitz: 40 Receptions, 392 Yards, 5 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='2103475' first='Eli' last='Krueger']: 26 Receptions, 450 Yards, 9 TDs</li> </ul>   2026 Outlook   We are in store for a special year of passing production across WI. Not only do we have these loaded groups of playmakers reeling in passes, but many of them also return their highly productive QBs. That is true for McFarland too as they not only return their top three receiving threats, but also their '27 QB [player_tooltip player_id='1430287' first='Garrett' last='Crull'] who put up great numbers in 2025. They also return RB1 for their offense to help keep the defense honest. What sets this group apart is that a lot of their talent and production is at the TE position.   Leading the way is [player_tooltip player_id='2103475' first='Eli' last='Krueger']. The 6'10" 230 lbs monster's future is most likely on the hardwood, but until then he is going to continue to be a problem on the field. His elite size is impossible to match up with and his footwork and body positioning are also fantastic thanks to that basketball background. Fellow 2027 TE [player_tooltip player_id='1620345' first='Parker' last='Roh'] was the go to man for the offense. His 6'4" 220 lbs frame is more than enough to create mismatches. He impressed this summer with smooth route running and a strong sense for how to use his size and strength to create the room to make catches in the quick passing game. Joining this talented TE duo is WR Grayson Gauwitz. Grayson is another dual sport standout in this group, shining on the baseball diamond. On the field he is a nice counter to the size at the TE position. He is an athlete who can get open with his speed and body control through his routes. This group will test a defenses combo of size and athleticism.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Catholic Memorial</h2>   Returning Talent & Production   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1045089' first='Dustin' last='Roach']: 25 Receptions, 703 Yards, 8 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='1624391' first='Will' last='Schmitzer']: 25 Receptions, 311 Yards, 6 TDs</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='653861' first='Zy'aire' last='Smith']: 26 Receptions, 300 Yards, 4 TDs</li> </ul>   2026 Outlook   Catholic Memorial is going to be a team in the running for most explosive offense in Wisconsin. They were apart of the best RB tandems article, now here they are with an elite group of pass catching talent. On top of that they return their highly talented QB in [player_tooltip player_id='1287562' first='Dalton' last='Steinke'], a 2028 coming off his first year as starter. The skill players will be playing behind a talented group of OL, just like they do most years. The Crusaders pass catchers are a group of two-way difference makers that have legitimate next level talent.   They are led by 2027 ATH [player_tooltip player_id='1045089' first='Dustin' last='Roach']. A Wisconsin Badgers commit with a great blend of size, athleticism, and ball skills. His superior traits allow him to shine at WR, winning deep, attacking the ball at the high point, and being a nightmare to bring down in the open field. Joining him is fellow 2027 [player_tooltip player_id='653861' first='Zy'aire' last='Smith']. Smith is also our CB1 in the state, and when he isn't locking down receivers he is showing off how effective that speed and quick twitch agility is at getting him open for Steinke to target. At TE is [player_tooltip player_id='1624391' first='Will' last='Schmitzer']. The '28 is also a talented OLB prospect. As a TE he fits the H-back role, creating mismatches up the seam with his speed. He is also very effective in the short passing game where he can get the ball, turn upfield, and show off some angry running. This is a dangerous trio that will surely be making plenty of highlight reel plays on both sides of the ball for the Crusaders this fall.

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