Rounding out today’s article, is Cardel Staples Cardel Staples 5'11" | 170 lbs | DB/ATH McKinley | 2026 State NY . The LITM Senior, was a player I was excited to watch, and he did not disappoint. The McKinley prospect played on both sides of the ball during this past weekend, and made tremendous plays on both sides as well. Staples was a lockdown corner, who came away with a major pick, where he showcased impressive hands and body control. On offense, his footwork was elite, and his route running saw him find open catches throughout the weekend. Staples did not disappoint this weekend.

You cannot watch a McKinley football game without noticing Cardel Staples Cardel Staples 5'11" | 170 lbs | DB/ATH McKinley | 2026 State NY . He is one of the top athletes in Western New York and he proves it week in/week out. Being a WR/DB in a rain soaked game, it is unlikely to have much of an impact statistically but what he did was keep the momentum going with two key plays. McKinley only threw for 45 yards but 39 of those were on one play to Staples in the first quarter that led to a Macks TD. Then with under 2 minutes left to go in the game, pinned inside their own 5, Cardel came in as the team’s punter a blasted a 55 yard kick that put Will East in their own territory thus making it improbable for them to score in those conditions.

I would be amiss to not mention that Staples also had 2 punt returns of 80+ yards that were called back due to holding penalties. Cardel is one of the most explosive playmakers in Section VI.

Staples entered 2024 as one of the top ATHs in WNY. Even though McKinley’s run dominated approach limited his receiving stats (34-522-3), he earned 3rd team All State honors as a CB. Cardel is a smooth playmaker that shows outstanding football intuition.

One of the best athletes in this class, Staples is a two way stud for the McKinley Macks. He is an exceptional WR but McKinley’s run dominated offense limited his statistical output. However, Cardel made 3rd team All State as a DB with his solid coverage skills and the ability to track the ball in the air.

Staples is a great overall athlete, a two-way player who projects as a CB at the next level. He has good length for 5’11” – I have seen him at a camp. His body type is good for the next level, with some room to add weight and strength.

Staples has strong coverage skills and the ability to stay on the hip of the WR against multiple routes on tape. His ball skills are out the most, his vertical and ball tracking are strong, and there are multiple reps on tape that show ball skills that can translate to the next level.

Staples entered 2024 as one of the top athletes for the class of 2026. But McKinley’s three-headed run first approach would limit his receiving output, although he did lead the Macks in receptions. Cardel is an exceptional athlete in all three phases of the game. He is versatile as he can line up anywhere on the field, plays with great football instincts and has solid speed.

Work ethic is something that cannot be taught but is something that Cardel Staples Cardel Staples 5'11" | 170 lbs | DB/ATH McKinley | 2026 State NY has a great deal of. As a receiver, Staples can stretch the field better than just about anyone. His 38.7 yards per reception as a sophomore is remarkable. His natural football instincts convert to Defensive Back when he recorded 41 tackles and led the team with 4 interceptions for 145 yards. Cardel is an all around great playmaker that is poised for a huge junior year.