Nico Benallo
Nico Benallo
About Nico
Expert Analysis
Nathaniel Kue | Prep Redzone Scout
10 catches 134 yds 3 TDs
With 2 TDs Thursday evening,
Nico Benallo
Nico
Benallo
5'10" | 165 lbs | WR/DB
Ralston Valley | 2026
State
CO
showed how dependable of a slot WR he is for this undefeated Ralston Valley team. Nico does a great job sinking his hips when changing directions and showing tremendous concentration through the catch. Nico’s patented route is the china/whip route that Cooper Kupp made his money on in the redzone for the Rams in the 2023 and 24 seasons. This route was on full display Thursday with Gabler hitting him in stride for the team’s 4th TD on 3rd and goal. Even when most teams know it’s coming, he still does a great job creating separation and knowing where the defensive zones are to get more than just the 1st down. Through this route and others, Nico is a super reliable and trustworthy target for
Zeke Andrews
Zeke
Andrews
6'6" | 200 lbs | QB/TE
Ralston Valley | 2026
State
CO
and now Gabler on 3rd down and in the redzone. This route, and his spin move in the open field, require so much body control and coordination with his head spinning around that its so impressive when you see him adjust late to balls not perfectly thrown – for about the 3rd time, impressive coordination. He’s super quick with his spin move with the ball in his hand, really showing off his footwork and awareness. Nico also shows tremendous body control near the sideline, first being able to consistently catch and get his feet down on sideline balls at full extension. He also does a great job sinking his hips and fighting the sideline when passes bring his momentum to the sideline to be able get vertical and get more yards. Another way Nico is so QB friendly is how he runs his routes against man coverage. He does a great job running to open grass not getting overly sucked into the defense and finding massive areas for his QB to have a massive window to find him in stride. Finally, Nico is an extremely effective punt returner spotlighting his elusiveness and IQ consistently making the first guy miss and getting vertical gaining first downs for his team. With Gabler at the helm, Nico should be getting even more looks as a trusty slot for the young QB and this stout Mustangs team.
Access all of Prep Redzone
Subscribe to read about this player
Read EvaluationPlayer Claimed