PRZIA Small-School Pass-Rushers to Watch in 2026

Iowa boasts an impressively deep group of outstanding players defending the box at DE and LB who are able to generate huge numbers across the board, particularly in generating pressure against opposing QBs. Today, we recognize the overlooked prospects across the lower-level conferences in the state that have generated plenty of noise and buzz to warrant attention and to show that they have more than enough talent in this role that could see them become great pass-rush specialists at the next level. We take a look at 7 pass-rushers from Iowa's lower-level conferences to keep an eye on in 2026!    The top choice here, [player_tooltip player_id='1283377' first='Lucas' last='Diehl'] was one of the most productive pass-rushers in the entire state last season, and his presence proved critical in securing the Knights' perfect campaign en route to winning the 2A conference. Diehl's 14 sacks were the 2nd most in the state only behind Dowling Catholic's Ryan Bobo. He added 54 tackles, 18 TFLs, a FF, and 2 fumble recoveries. A powerful DT who arrives to the LOS each play with a crash, Diehl has proven consistently difficult to stop, showcasing a combination of speed, strength, and high-motor intensity that is nearly unmatched among his peers at this level. Diehl will look to maintain the fabric of that perfect unit from 2025, and he will be taking his talents to NDSU following his senior year.     An undeniable choice here, [player_tooltip player_id='2090925' first='Carter' last='Wright'] has continued to grow vastly as a pass-rusher since emerging in the Wildcats' lineup last season. Wright enjoyed a brilliant junior campaign, recording 37 tackles, 18 TFLs, and 12.5 sacks. A devastating DE who shows impressive speed and explosiveness off the edge, Wright proved often capable of winning with speed, while also flashing a quick twitch and agility to surge through both inside and outside his blocker's pads, as well as solid power to churn through contact and generate leverage with strength. Showcasing an impressive balance of traits, Wright could benefit at the position with a bit more bulk to his frame, but he should once again be a powerhouse in the Class A Conference in his senior season.     An emerging junior on the D-line, [player_tooltip player_id='1924004' first='Eaghan' last='Fleshman'] has already become a terror in the 2A conference, generating big numbers on defense and shining among a talented roster as one of their brightest stars. Fleshman's 26.5 TFLs were the 5th most in the state as well as the most in the 2A conference last season. Fleshman added 56 tackles, 8 sacks, 4 FFs, and an INT last season. Fleshman poses the flexibility to play both at DE and DT, playing low and constantly elusive against both OTs and interior-linemen, Fleshman is able to shed off blockers effortlessly, while also closing the distance between him and the ball-carrier quickly and is able to bat down passes as well as set up a tip-drill INT. Fleshman should quickly become one of the premier faces for the Pirates as they look to continue contending as a force in the 2A conference.     Since his first snaps on varsity during his freshman year, [player_tooltip player_id='2079929' first='Drake' last='Hodgson'] has been undeniably one of the best players on the field for the Jays, continuing to grow substantially in the interior defensive-line. Hodgson finished with 45.5 tackles, 16 TFLs, and 9.5 sacks in 2025. Hodgson has shown to be suitable plugging up the A and B gaps while also possessing the power and tenacity to crash through the line and create pressure in the pocket. Hodgson's talents shine even despite playing on an overlooked unit, with one of his most notable performance last season being a 2-sack game against the eventual Class-A champions MMCRU. By far the best defensive player on that roster, Hodgson will be front-and-center leading the Jays' defense in 2026.     [player_tooltip player_id='1941237' first='Caleb' last='Puderbaugh'] emerged during his sophomore season unexpectedly as the most productive player on the Blue Devils' defense. Puderbaugh broke out with 26.5 tackles, 12 TFLs, 8.5 sacks, a FF, and a fumble recovery. While he still has time to grow into his frame, Puderbaugh flashes some impressive mechanics as a DE, proving quick and slippery for OL to block against, keeping his feet moving constantly while being precise with his timing and COD to stay on the path toward where the ball is going, giving little leeway for QBs or RBs to run through gaps. Puderbaugh's presence should continue to be vital as they look to continue to trend in the right direction following a winless 2024 campaign.     Not to be confused with the Wisconsin QB of the same name, but [player_tooltip player_id='2246651' first='Cooper' last='Adair'] of Wapsie Valley has made plenty of noise himself, helping guide the Warriors to their first double-digit winning season since 2013. Adair racked up 40.5 tackles, 13.5 TFLs, 8 sacks, a FF, 3 fumble recoveries, and an INT returned for a TD. A lengthy DE who uses his frame and wingspan to make it difficult for blockers to keep their hands on, Adair flashes natural strength and speed off the snap, proving capable of generating pressure and sealing the Edge, though consistently looking to improve his game, noting on his clips his own points for improvement to correct his mistakes. Adair showcases adaptability and a willingness to learn, and that will carry a long way when he gets the opportunity to play at the next level.     Despite his smaller size, [player_tooltip player_id='2090930' first='Logan' last='Miller'] was a potent bookend on both sides of the ball for the Lynx last season playing at LT and DE. On the defensive side, Miller recorded 41 tackles, 11 TFLs, 7.5 sacks, a FF, and a fumble recovery returned for a TD. A balanced and instinctual player, Miller shows great mechanics and precision with his movement s and hand-placement, constantly on the attack and in the face of his opponents, showcasing an intriguing and very effective combination in his technique that more than makes up for his smaller size. Miller might be a better fit at LB at the next level, but there is no denying the natural ability and talent he brings to the table.

Iowa boasts an impressively deep group of outstanding players defending the box at DE and LB who are able to generate huge numbers across the board, particularly in generating pressure against opposing QBs. Today, we recognize the overlooked prospects across the lower-level conferences in the state that have generated plenty of noise and buzz to warrant attention and to show that they have more than enough talent in this role that could see them become great pass-rush specialists at the next level. We take a look at 7 pass-rushers from Iowa's lower-level conferences to keep an eye on in 2026!