Kai already plays the WR like an experienced senior. The 6’1″ 160 lbs sophomore is a nuanced route runner. Someone who shows great body control and balance. That allows him to hit breaks at a high rate of speed, and burst out of them without having to gather himself. That crisp route running has been opening up huge windows for his QB to target all season long. Kai also has the speed to get up field in a hurry and then pull away from defenders. Owens also has the elusiveness and wiggle to make DBs miss. I’m excited to see the standout sophomore continue to develop his game.

Kai Owens Kai Owens 6'2" | 170 lbs | WR Carmel Catholic | 2026 State IL can play outside or inside receiver. His best attribute is his route running ability, he can get in and out of his breaks quickly creating separation from defenders. He is a natural pass catcher, catching balls away from his body with his strong hands. He is a guy that should be targeted all game long because he has the ability to break open a game if a defense can’t contain him.

Our #3 overall prospect in the PRzIL 2026 rankings update was called a “no-brainer Power-5 receiver” by our NSD and General Manager Jake Lemming, Carmel Catholic High School and Carpentersville product Kai Owens Kai Owens 6'2" | 170 lbs | WR Carmel Catholic | 2026 State IL is currently gripping the WR1 spot in what is a LOADED class of pass catchers from the Land of Lincoln 2026s. I’m telling you again, the WR position group in the 2026 PRzIL rankings is stacked, and it is no small feat heading the pack, and Owens is going to continue to have to grind and develop his skillset to keep some of these guys off his heels. Good thing he’s got game, and with good speed and size and soft hands, the 6’2, 165 lber. is quick at the top of the route and out of his breaks, and a good, natural route runner who has the ability to both move his offense downfield in methodical fashion or take the top off the defense and create explosive plays downfield. Sadly, Carmel Catholic saw a fantastic freshman starter transfer to Florida powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas in linebacker Phillip Goodrich Jr., but their star power in the 2026 class remains strong in the hands of Owens. Can’t wait to see these receivers ball out in 2023!