Braden Wade
About Braden
Expert Analysis
Matthew Layton | Prep Redzone Scout
We’ve been big believers in 2026 Linsly QB
Braden Wade
Braden
Wade
6'0" | 190 lbs | QB
Linsly | 2026
State
WV
for a long time now after seeing him at a 7-on-7 practice before he ever took a starting varsity snap behind center. A rugged schedule during his high school career may have caused Wade to be overlooked, but his talent is clear when you turn on his film. Seeing him live several times, his arm talent is even more impressive in person, and Wade has the potential to be a big-time starting quarterback in college one day.
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Read EvaluationMatthew Layton | Prep Redzone Scout
The Linsly Cadets are having a tough start to the season against a bear of a schedule, but 2026 QB
Braden Wade
Braden
Wade
6'0" | 190 lbs | QB
Linsly | 2026
State
WV
is doing all that he can to keep his squad competitive. He’s put together some strong performances even with their 1-4 start and is still proving why we consider him a Top 2 QB prospect in this class. Wade has showcased the other nuances of the position this season out of necessity on top of his known high-level arm talent. He’s utilizing his legs more in his pocket presence and escaping pressure while also proving he can throw accurately on the run and does a nice job of keeping his eyes downfield.
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Read EvaluationMatthew Layton | Prep Redzone Scout
The Linsly Cadets got back in the win column for the first time since November 3rd, 2023, in their 42-0 shutout win over Brooke. 2026 QB
Braden Wade
Braden
Wade
6'0" | 190 lbs | QB
Linsly | 2026
State
WV
had a very efficient night for the Cadets, completing 81% of his passes on 9/11 attempts for 162 yards and a touchdown. He added a second score with his legs in the game, a trait that he’s capable of doing more when needed. Wade showcased his high-level arm talent, throwing strikes throughout the night.
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Read EvaluationMatthew Layton | Prep Redzone Scout
The Linsly Cadets will have one of the best quarterbacks in the state of West Virginia at their disposal with 2026 QB
Braden Wade
Braden
Wade
6'0" | 190 lbs | QB
Linsly | 2026
State
WV
. He’ll have them competitive in every game this season with the arm talent that he possesses, forcing defenses to cover every inch of the field. Wade has the most gifted arm in the class in our eyes, with a natural feel as a passer. His arm strength sticks out right away when watching his film and seeing him live as an effortless passer who can rip it at a high level. If the Cadets want a winning season in 2025, Wade will need to elevate everyone around him against a tough schedule. He’s deserving of FCS looks in our eyes with a D1 caliber arm.
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Read EvaluationMatthew Layton | Prep Redzone Scout
Unsurprisingly, the star of the show of the Spring Showcase was 2026 Linsly QB
Braden Wade
Braden
Wade
6'0" | 190 lbs | QB
Linsly | 2026
State
WV
. He ranks as our #2 QB prospect in the class, and Wade proves why every time we see him in person. He’s been very well developed as a quarterback and has a great mind for the position on top of his high-level arm talent. Wade was ripping the ball effortlessly throughout the camp, driving the ball impressively on deep balls and using his high velocity to fit balls into tight windows during 7-on-7. He was rewarded with an offer from Muskingum (OH) after his performance, with more opportunities from bigger programs sure to come.
Grateful to receive an offer from @CoachMNardo after our showcase. Very blessed! @LinslyFootball @MuskingumFB pic.twitter.com/3WuW3Z3oJl
— Braden Wade
Braden Wade 6'0" | 190 lbs | QB Linsly | 2026 State WV (@braden_wade14) May 14, 2025
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Read EvaluationMatthew Layton | Prep Redzone Scout
Our #2 quarterback in the 2026 class
Braden Wade
Braden
Wade
6'0" | 190 lbs | QB
Linsly | 2026
State
WV
of Linsly put his big arm on display at the Winter Exposure Showcase last night. The junior gunslinger took home QB MVP honors and excels in a camp setting every time we see him. Wade was in contention and possibly the favorite for the top arm strength out of a talented group of quarterbacks in attendance. He further showed he could make all of the throws as he’s shown on game film the past two seasons and just wrapped up a solid junior season for the Cadets against one of the toughest schedules in the state where he threw for 2,000 yards and 16 touchdowns. Wade puts great velocity on his throws and can drive the ball with the best of them in the WV 2026 class.
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Read EvaluationMatthew Layton | Prep Redzone Scout
- t
- New Ranking: 17
- Previous Ranking: 18
- Spots Raised: +1
Linsly quarterback
Braden Wade
Braden
Wade
6'0" | 190 lbs | QB
Linsly | 2026
State
WV
moved up just one spot in the rankings but he cemented himself this season as one of the top QB prospects in the 2026 class. Wade took over as QB1 midway through the season and didn’t look back. He threw for 1,314 yards and 9 touchdowns as a sophomore in just 5 games for the Cadets. Of course, Wade took his lumps at times which is to be expected for a first-year varsity starter playing a tough regional schedule as Linsly does but he is very developed for a quarterback his age. He’s put on good size since our last update as well putting himself in position to be the starter when called upon. Having the chance to catch his first game after being named the starter, you would have never known it was his first time being QB1 at the varsity level. Wade can make all of the throws on the field and plays the game like a veteran player. I would say he’s the most polished quarterback in the 2026 class at this point in their young careers and could eventually take over the #1 spot.
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Read EvaluationEvent Results
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Combine Series: West Virginia
05/03/2025
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Event Results
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Combine Series: West Virginia
05/03/2025
- 40 Yard Dash #1
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- 40 Yard Dash #2
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- Shuttle #1
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- Shuttle #2
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- Broad Jump #1
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- Broad Jump #2
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- L Drill #1
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- L Drill #2
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- Vertical #1
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- Vertical #2
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