6’5, 255-pound 2028 DE/DT/OT prospect out of Kingswood Oxford School. Competes in football, basketball, and lacrosse.

Current Ranking and Potential Bump: Kingswood Oxford’s Ballesteros, a 2028 who is already ranked as a top 10 EDGE prospect on PRZ New England, was far and away one of the best trench players present, makes complete sense why he’s ranked the way he is currently. I’d go as far as to say, despite Ballesteros’ great ranking, I could justify another bump toward inside the class’s Top 50 recruits. What stood out the most was Ballesteros’ athleticism, easily looking like one of the leaner prospects present, all while maintaining power and technique from those across him. This is a premier athlete who still has potential to unlock. Ballesteros might be one of the few high-ranking prospects on this list to actually still see a bump in the near future. PRZ New England 2028 rankings will update before the season begins.

Ballesteros flashed high traits that make him a standout in pass protection and run blocking, particularly on the edge. His physicality and edge set him apart—he plays with a mean streak that translates to consistent finishes on blocks. Key highlights from the showcase: He excelled against speed rushers in space. He used quick feet and a rapid kick step to mirror defenders effectively. His posture remains balanced and low, allowing him to maintain leverage and redirect rushers without getting overextended. He used his hands violently as a weapon. He punches with authority. He uses them independently to control and stun opponents at the point of attack.

He’s already strong enough to handle bigger, more physical defenders in drills. He won the vast majority of his reps. He combined leverage with functional strength. He often stonewalled bull rushes and drove defenders off the line. His quick feet enable fluid movement in space, making him versatile for pulling or second-level blocking schemes. His competitive fire—”playing with an edge”—was evident in every rep, fueling sustained effort and resilience against top competition. Earning MVP in a loaded showcase speaks to his ability to perform under pressure.

The lone player from CT, Ballesteros caught my eye. His size was intriguing, and measuring in at 6’4″ 253-Pounds, he displayed an excellent build for a Sophomore Lineman. He was also extremely athletic throughout the afternoon, and put together some impressive combine numbers. Ballesteros, used his massive frame and strength to move defenders throughout the showcase. I liked his body control, and hand placement throughout the showcase, as he moved multiple players off their stance. Ballesteros is a solid prospect, and with his strength and size can become a top guy in the New England Region.

The lone player from CT, Ballesteros caught my eye. His size was intriguing, and measuring in at 6’4″ 253-Pounds, he displayed an excellent build for a Sophomore Lineman. He was also extremely athletic throughout the afternoon, and put together some impressive combine numbers. Ballesteros, used his massive frame and strength to move defenders throughout the showcase. I liked his body control, and hand placement throughout the showcase, as he moved multiple players off their stance. Ballesteros is a solid prospect, and with his strength and size can become a top guy in the New England Region.

Ernesto was another top performer from the event, and pairing him with the other two up front would create an ideal offensive front. He stood out as the most athletic offensive lineman at the showcase, using his tall frame to tower over opponents and overwhelm them at the point of attack. Ernesto showed raw strength and body control, consistently getting defenders turned and knocked off their intended path. With a true tackle build, Ernesto brings obvious upside on the offensive line, and his athleticism and length also suggest he could excel on the defensive side of the ball as an edge presence as well.

Prep Redzone New England Report: Recruiting Stock Update

After a standout 2025 season, Ernesto Ballesteros Ernesto Ballesteros 6'4" | 250 lbs | EDGE/OL Kingswood-Oxford | 2028 State New E has elevated his recruiting profile. His versatility as both an offensive tackle and edge rusher was evident on film, showcasing exceptional agility and strength. Defensively, Ballesteros displayed a formidable first step and the ability to bend around the edge, coupled with impressive game speed and relentless passion.
On offense, his blocking skills are noteworthy; he holds his blocks effectively, dominates the line of scrimmage, and consistently finishes plays, showcasing a blend of balance, knee bend, and a robust broad base. His ability to reach the second level underscores his potential as an offensive powerhouse if he chooses to focus there.
Measuring at 6’4″ and 247 lbs at the Prep Redzone showcase on December 13, 2025, his physical attributes, combined with his on-field performance, make him a rising talent to watch in the coming years. With continued development in both muscle mass and technique, expect Ballesteros to be a top prospect heading into his junior season.