Hackney continues to show promise as one of the state’s emerging young passers. The sophomore threw for 215 yards and a touchdown, displaying maturity in the pocket and confidence pushing the ball downfield. His poise and touch make him a name to watch in the 2028 class as his development continues.

Hackney showed poise beyond his years, demonstrating patience and command of the offense throughout the night. The sophomore signal-caller took what the defense gave him, showing arm talent to push the ball outside the numbers while using his legs to extend plays. He finished with 360 passing yards and two touchdowns, exhibiting strong pocket presence and impressive decision-making.

One of the most underrated gunslingers in the state, Hayes flashes some Mahomes/Allen tendencies by extending plays with his legs and arm. Through 5 games, his offense has led the Wildcats to an undefeated start, averaging nearly 60 points per game. While his scramble ability is noted, Hackney is also poised and polished as a pocket passer, driving passes down the sideline and over the middle of the field. Hayes thrives at completing passes as soon as receivers come out of their breaks, showcasing anticipation and a quick release. He is also more than capable of picking up yardage with his legs. So far, he has thrown for over 1,200 yards and 17 TDs, while also adding 100 yards and a score on the ground. With offers, from UTSA and SFA, keep an eye on Hackney and the Wildcats as they attempt a run at the state title.

Hayes put on a masterful performance, completing 11 of 18 passes for 297 yards and 6 total touchdowns. He displayed poise in the pocket, quickly diagnosing defenses and delivering accurate throws into tight windows. His ability to extend plays with his feet when under pressure kept the defense off balance, and his connection with multiple receivers showed he can distribute the ball effectively. Hayes made every possession count, turning opportunities into explosive scoring drives and controlling the pace of the game from start to finish.

 Hackney had a monster freshman season, leading Walnut Grove to the playoffs. He has a strong arm, clean mechanics, and throws from a solid base. He’s athletic in the pocket and accurate on the move. A standout two-sport athlete, Hackney also shines on the baseball field. UTSA offered him this offseason. Expect more offers to roll in soon.

Hackney has been a standout under center for Walnut Grove, guiding the team to a district title and a playoff spot in their first varsity season. He has a strong arm and skill with the deep ball, Hackney reads defenses well and has the athleticism to extend plays outside the pocket. His ability to throw accurately on the run makes him a versatile threat as Walnut Grove enters the postseason.

Hackney has played at a high level as the starting quarterback for Walnut Grove and he has led the Wildcats to a 7-1 record this season. He shows no panic under pressure, he has great pocket awareness and his ability to make plays with his feet enables him to escape the rush when he is under duress. Hackney has a quick release that allows him to get the football out quickly and in rhythm. He has excellent touch on his deep ball and his accuracy in the short to intermediate zones allows him to complete passes at a high percentage. In a big win over Lovejoy, Hackney was 23-30 for 358 yards and 3 touchdowns. His impact has been felt this season at Walnut Grove. This is the Wildcats first season in 5A Division I and they will make the playoffs due to his stellar play under center.

A feathery deep ball thrower that will work away from his first and second read if nothing is there. He uses his eyes & body language to manipulate defenders away from where he wants to go with the football, he is calm, cool, and collected, and he can get the football out of his hand quickly. He’s creative against the rush and has been super consistent at the varsity level already.

Hackney got his first start in Week 0 and helped Walnut Grove get their first win of the season. He was calm, cool and collected and he made good decisions with the football. He has a strong arm, he can make every throw on the route tree and he can thread the needle into tight coverage. Hackney led Walnut Grove to 63 points, tossing four touchdown passes. He has the skill set to be one the top signal callers in his class in the future.