Ranked exactly one slot behind Dozier is teammate Takiesse Barnes Takiesse Barnes 5'11" | 180 lbs | ATH Pleasantville | 2027 State NJ . Like Dozier, Barnes is a weaponized at several positions, albeit on the opposite side of the ball. A running back, Barnes runs behind his pads through the trenches. On tape we see very quick and sudden jab steps. This move done at this speed is lethal, as defenders are typically too slow to stop-and-start again. With this quickness comes his speed. We see on multiple occasions that Barnes can separate from the pack. Additionally, Barnes has the ability to jump into the building, high pointing hte ball extremely well and using his hands to do so. On defense we see him play single-high safety, and is disciplined in doing so – reading the opposing quarterback’s eyes. Good pursuit angles combined with twitchiness allow Barnes to deliver big hits along the sideline. My final thought on Barnes is this: he is the type of player that any time he touches the ball a big play can happen.

Takiesse Barnes Takiesse Barnes 5'11" | 180 lbs | ATH Pleasantville | 2027 State NJ is a true hidden gem who is poised to generate serious buzz this offseason and into the 2026 season. From the first snap, his explosiveness jumps off the screen.

Barnes hits the hole with urgency, and once he gets into the open field, his speed becomes a real problem for defenses. More importantly, he pairs that burst with strong vision. He sees lanes develop before they fully open and consistently puts himself in a position to create chunk plays. While he is still developing as a polished runner, his raw athleticism already separates him from most defenders he faces.

In addition, Barnes impacts the game on the defensive side of the ball. As a safety, he plays downhill with confidence, delivers contact in the run game, and uses that same explosiveness to close space and make plays on the football. His two-way value only adds to his upside.

Because of that, Barnes is a player whose recruitment could rise quickly. Once college coaches turn on the film and see his burst, speed, and overall athletic profile, the interest will follow. With his current Division I offer from Wofford, Takiesse Barnes Takiesse Barnes 5'11" | 180 lbs | ATH Pleasantville | 2027 State NJ is well-positioned to turn an underrated label into a full-fledged breakout year.