As the 2023 high school football season approaches, fans and coaches alike eagerly anticipate the emergence of promising talents who are poised to leave their mark on the gridiron. In this ever-evolving landscape of football, identifying the rising stars is crucial, and the upcoming campaign promises to showcase an exceptional crop of young athletes. With a keen eye on the future, we have compiled a list of 2026 high school football players to watch for the 2023 season. These exceptional individuals possess a potent combination of skill, athleticism, and potential, suggesting they will not only captivate audiences in the present but also shape the future of the sport. From electrifying quarterbacks to tenacious defensive standouts, this group represents the next generation of football excellence, ready to make their presence felt and ignite the passions of fans nationwide.
Brody Church, East Lake 2026 TE 6-4/190-200 – Massive catch radius, allowing him to make impressive receptions. His excellent ball skills ensure that he can secure catches in challenging situations. Additionally, Church’s fantastic athletic ability further enhances his effectiveness on the field, making him a formidable threat in the passing game.
Townsend Evans, Tampa Catholic 2026 RB 5-10/170-180 – A running back to watch in 2026. With a height of 5-10 and weighing between 170-180 pounds, Evans possesses a quick step and impressive straight line speed. Known as a one-cut runner, he has the agility and vision to make swift decisions and find the right gaps in the defense.
Jesse Harden, Spoto 2026 WR 6-3/165-175 – A talented wide receiver from Spoto High School’s class of 2026, stands tall at 6’3″ and weighs between 165-175 pounds. Known for his durability, he is a tough runner who consistently gains ground for his team, showcasing his determination and strength on the field. With his impressive physical attributes and skill set, Harden is a force at the wide receiver position.
Anthony Harris, Indian Rocks 2026 WR/CB 5-10/150-160 – A promising talent from Indian Rocks, set to make a name for himself in the world of football as a wide receiver and cornerback in 2026. Standing at 5-10 and weighing between 150-160 pounds, he possesses the ideal physique for his position. Known for his remarkable athleticism, Harris is recognized for being a stretch receiver, utilizing his smooth striding abilities to create separation from defenders. His finesse on the field makes him a formidable threat to opposing teams.
Noah Maddox, Boone 2026 LB 6-0/205-215 – Possesses an impressive nose for the ball, consistently locating it with precision on the field. Despite his average size at 6-0 and 205-215 pounds, Maddox excels in open spaces, utilizing his agility to cover ground effectively. His reputation as a sure tackler speaks volumes about his ability to bring down opponents reliably and minimize yards gained. Overall, Maddox proves to be a valuable asset to the Boone team with his instinctive playmaking skills and solid defensive techniques.
Dillon Rose Bailey, Bloomingdale 2026 QB 6-2/185-195 – Stands at an impressive 6-2 and weighs between 185 to 195 pounds. His ability to throw accurately while on the move sets him apart from other quarterbacks. Not only does he display great composure, but his patience in the pocket allows him to make calculated decisions under pressure. With a confident demeanor on the field, Dillon proves to be a valuable asset to his team.
Jamaun Thompson, Sarasota Riverview 2026 DE/OLB 6-1/200-210 – Showcases his exceptional skills as a DE/OLB in the class of 2026. Standing at 6-1 and weighing between 200-210 pounds, his impressive speed allows him to excel on the field. With a fantastic redirect ability, Thompson possesses the agility and versatility to make impactful plays in various positions. His potential as a multifaceted player makes him a highly sought-after prospect for the future.