Ishman exploded last fall with 3,233 yards in the air. His 36 touchdowns to just 8 interceptions show how much of a polished passer he is. He completed 67% of his passes on the year, with 15.9 yards per completion. He is also second in rushing on the team for returning players, with 278 yards and 6 touchdowns on the year. He averaged 7.7 yards each time he ran on just 36 carries. With his first D1 offer coming in June from Liberty, look for him to have another big season and to get on the radar of several more programs.

Ishman is the state’s top returning passer, a gunslinger from the far eastern part of the state. I was honestly shocked a guy with his size, arm talent, and decision-making didn’t have more interest from colleges until Liberty stepped in to offer in June. If he once again throws for 3,200 yards and 36 touchdowns, the Flames will have some competition.

Ishman threw for an impressive 3,233 yards last fall with 36 touchdowns and only 8 interceptions. Although he does not return his top two pass catchers, he is a threat to lead his team on another deep playoff run. He did connect with fellow 2027 BJ Evans on a huge 60 yard completion in their playoff game against Kinston in the last game of the year, so that chemistry is already there. Ishman holds four offers, with his most recent offer being his first at the D1 level, from Liberty.

After throwing for a junior-best 3,233 yards, Ishman returns to Northeastern looking for a repeat of his 2025 success. Ishman is somehow going under the radar on the recruiting trail, despite having excellent size, mobility, and arm talent. He seems to be a victim of both geography and a slower quarterback market, because there’s very little he can’t do on a football field. His natural feel in the pocket and ability to layer throws are excellent, rising well above the thresholds we tend to use when evaluating future college quarterbacks.

Zak Ishman Zak Ishman 6'2" | 200 lbs | QB Northeastern | 2027 State NC put together one of the most productive quarterback seasons in the entire state last year, regardless of region, and was just one game away from reaching the state championship. His ability to take over games and lead his team was on full display all season long. Ishman lit up defenses for over 3,200 passing yards and 36 touchdowns, consistently making big-time throws and elevating the play of everyone around him. He also added 6 more scores on the ground, showing he can make plays when things break down. With that kind of production and leadership, Ishman enters the next season as one of the premier quarterbacks to watch in North Carolina.

In his first year as a starting quarterback, Ishman led the entire class with over 3,200 passing yards for Northeastern. He has excellent size and refined mechanics. He improved as a decision-maker as the season progressed and has the athleticism to both move in the pocket and take off when needed.

Zak Ishaman delivered one of the top quarterback performances anywhere in the state during Round 3, putting Northeastern on his back with a masterclass outing. The junior went an ultra-efficient 20-of-26 for 344 yards and 4 touchdowns, carving up the defense with precision, touch, and big-play confidence. Ishaman pushed the ball vertically, attacked soft spots in coverage, and controlled the momentum from start to finish. In a high-pressure playoff setting, he looked every bit like a seasoned veteran—showing why he’s emerging as one of the premier junior quarterbacks in North Carolina.

One of the most underrated quarterbacks in the entire state, Ishman continues to silence doubters and elevate Northeastern when the lights are brightest. Last game, the junior put on a clinic with 322 passing yards and 4 touchdowns, showing total command of the offense and the ability to attack every area of the field. His poise, accuracy, and decision-making have been the backbone of Northeastern’s success, and he once again has the Eagles positioned for another deep playoff run. As long as Ishman is under center, Northeastern is a legitimate threat to anyone they face.

Ishman continues to prove he’s one of the most polished and productive quarterbacks in the state, turning in another elite postseason performance. The junior carved up the defense with 322 passing yards, showing complete command of the offense and pinpoint accuracy from start to finish. He added four touchdowns, spreading the ball around and hitting big plays in stride while keeping Northeastern’s attack explosive and efficient. Calm, confident, and in total rhythm, Ishman’s Round 2 outing further solidified his status as a premier signal-caller in the 252.

Ishman continues to build one of the most impressive résumés of any quarterback in North Carolina this season. The junior standout once again delivered under the lights, throwing for 238 yards and two touchdowns in a decisive win over Hertford County. His command of the offense, touch on deep throws, and consistency week after week have Northeastern positioned as one of the most complete teams in the East.