Alex Hanks Alex Hanks 6'2" | 185 lbs | WR East Orange | 2026 State NJ from East Orange is one of the more underappreciated playmakers in New Jersey, but that may not last much longer. Ranked as the No. 5 wide receiver in the 2026 class by Prep Redzone, Hanks has steadily built a résumé that speaks for itself. He’s a true three-level threat—capable of stretching the field, making tough catches in traffic, and racking up yards after the catch.

Hanks recently committed to Temple University, and that decision seems to have lit a fire. With his blend of athleticism, refined route-running, and hunger to prove he belongs among the elite, East Orange has every reason to feed him early and often. If the volume stays high—and there’s no indication it won’t—Hanks could absolutely finish the year as New Jersey’s leader in receptions. He’s ready to make a statement.

Although he produced modest receiving numbers on the season (20/526/3), East Orange’s Alex Hanks Alex Hanks 6'2" | 185 lbs | WR East Orange | 2026 State NJ had his coming out party in the playoffs in a big upset win against West Orange and finished one game away from qualifying for the Group V state championship. In that West Orange game, Hanks went for 142 yards on 3 receptions while scoring twice. The result (other than a victory)? Offers from Temple, Charlotte, UMass, and West Virginia.

Prior Ranking: 172
Prior Ranking: 63
Stock Increase: +109

Alex Hanks Alex Hanks 6'2" | 185 lbs | WR East Orange | 2026 State NJ from East Orange is one of the most overlooked wideouts in the state. At 6’1”, 185 pounds, he brings a rare mix of size, physicality, and athleticism that jumps off the film. He’s not just a big target—he’s a fluid mover who can separate downfield and win after the catch. Hanks runs a polished route tree, showcases strong hands in traffic, and brings a physical edge to every snap.

Despite being under the radar in the New Jersey media circuit, college coaches have already taken notice. He holds offers from Temple, UNC Charlotte, and West Virginia, proving his upside is well-respected at the next level. With his senior season on the horizon, expect Hanks to emerge from the shadows and stamp his name among New Jersey’s best at the wide receiver position.

Alex Hanks Alex Hanks 6'2" | 185 lbs | WR East Orange | 2026 State NJ from East Orange is one of the more physically gifted and underrated prospects in North Jersey. Standing at 6’1”, 185, Hanks brings a tough, physical presence to the wide receiver position. But what makes him different is that he’s not just physical—he’s fast, explosive, and fluid in space. You can see that speed when he separates vertically, but he also runs a clean, well-developed route tree for a high school receiver.

He’s sharp in and out of breaks, shows quick change of direction, and has the contact balance to make defenders miss or bounce off after the catch. His ability to rack up yards post-catch is where he shines. On defense, Hanks adds value as a versatile safety who can play deep, drop into the box, or line up over the slot. He consistently finds the football and has already shown the ability to turn turnovers into points, with multiple pick-sixes on film.

Though still flying under the radar in broader circles, college staff are taking notice. Hanks currently holds offers from Temple, Charlotte, West Virginia, and UMass. Expect his stock to rise even higher as he continues to showcase that rare mix of size, speed, and playmaking on both sides of the ball.

Hanks is a player who made some plays at very opportune times, although the volume for him this weekend was not too crazy. I thought he showed some of the best hands all weekend. Showed the ability to snatch the ball out of the air, hand catcher, and tuck and turn up field quickly. Several reps throughout the tournament where his hands stood out.