Here are some of the top Kansas high school football Players to watch for this fall.
Cael Casteel, Abilene
Casteel is a tremendous athlete who will start for the second year on both the offensive and defensive line. He brings strong leadership and consistent production up front.
Cameron Boyd, Abilene
Boyd is a talented athlete who will help Abilene somewhere under the Friday night lights. He can line up at multiple positions on both offense and defense, giving the Cowboys valuable versatility.
Ethan Evans, Abilene
Evans is a three-year starter who will move from tight end to quarterback to guide the Abilene offense. He is a smart player who competes with great heart and also serves as a defensive leader at Sam linebacker, bringing energy and toughness to both sides of the ball.
Ryan McKinney, Abilene
McKinney embodies what four years of hard work can produce. Undersized as a freshman linebacker, he has developed into the type of football player coaches wish they had in bulk, constantly working even when no one is watching and building his body into the prototypical linebacker while still playing with great heart and speed as a two-way starter.
Beau Powell, Basehor-Linwood
Powell has worked extremely hard in the weight room this offseason. He shows significant potential as he battles for time at tight end and looks to earn a larger role.
Charlie Peek, Basehor-Linwood
Peek is a quiet leader and extremely unselfish presence for Basehor-Linwood. A rare three-sport athlete at the 5A level, he shows up every day for his teammates and leads by example.
Gavin Mitchell, Basehor-Linwood
Mitchell is the only two-way starter in the program and was instrumental in Basehor-Linwood’s 5A state runner-up finish last season. An all-state wrestler and the strongest player on the roster, he is in the 1,200-pound club and starts at nose tackle and running back, recording 68 tackles on the defensive line while rushing for more than 1,000 yards.
Brodie Cox, Belle Plaine
Cox is a good athlete who could end up as Belle Plaine’s quarterback. He works hard, is intelligent and demonstrates strong leadership skills in the huddle and the locker room.
Sawyer Ehrhart, Belle Plaine
Ehrhart suffered injuries in a sledding accident but maintains an excellent attitude. His enthusiasm and encouragement for teammates are a great asset to the program, and he will again handle punting duties after performing at a high level last season.
Jaylen Johnson, Bishop Miege
Johnson is a 2028 edge rusher with early offers from Kansas, Kansas State, Tennessee, SMU, Purdue and Arizona. He is expected to be an impact player on the field this fall for Bishop Miege.
Brady Budden, Cair Paravel Latin
Budden is a “try-hard” athlete who contributed at outside linebacker, defensive back and safety as a sophomore while also backing up at running back and slot. He is the first to arrive and last to leave practice, never complains, fills water bottles, moves dummies and is active in his church and community through volunteer work.
Cold Haubold, Cair Paravel Latin
Haubold began his career as a talented fullback and running back before moving to offensive guard due to his size, strength, and athleticism. He earned all-league honors at guard and became one of the leading middle linebackers in Kansas, adding all-league and all-state honorable mention recognition. He now returns to fullback for his senior season with the same bruising mentality on offense that he shows on defense.
Matteo Gossard, Cair Paravel Latin
Gossard was an underrated wide receiver as a freshman, displaying excellent football IQ and field vision. He will line up at slot, halfback and receiver to maximize his speed and elusiveness. He also contributed heavily on defense at defensive back last year.
Jaxon Chrislip, Canton-Galva
Chrislip has been a two-way starter for two seasons, previously at quarterback but now moving to running back. He thrives at middle linebacker as the defensive leader and one of the team’s best tacklers. He lives in the weight room and leads by example rather than voice. He has state wrestling tournament appearances as a freshman and sophomore.
Jaxon Nightingale, Canton-Galva
Nightingale is a three-year starter who logged valuable minutes even as a freshman. He is the core leader of the team on the field and in the weight room. He returns to his best spots – at offensive line and defensive end after playing multiple positions. His passion for the game and near-perfect summer attendance have helped Canton-Galva reach state in basketball and make yearly trips to the state track meet.
Heath Ratzlaff, Canton-Galva
Ratzlaff is one of the nicest players a coach could hope to find. He is always in a good mood, willing to help with whatever is needed, never complains and brings a thoughtful, dependable presence even if he is not the strongest or fastest athlete.
Mag Cathey, Canton-Galva
Cathey loves being outdoors and doing the “man” tasks that come with rural life. Hunting, spending time in the woods, shooting guns, riding four-wheelers and his family’s rodeo and livestock background all shape his personality away from the field.
Wes Prieb, Canton-Galva
Prieb is likely the highest football IQ player on the Canton-Galva roster. He started at center as a freshman and rarely missed a snap, directing the offensive line as the leader up front. With his size and understanding of the game position, he could become an all-state football player as he continues to grow and mature.
Cooper Criss, Cedar Vale/Dexter
Criss is a four-year starter who has been a key factor in the program’s success, compiling 4,560 passing yards and 67 touchdowns while completing 56% of his throws and adding 669 rushing yards and 22 rushing scores. Coaches look forward to a huge senior season from the veteran quarterback.
Jordan Davis, Cedar Vale/Dexter
Davis is an incoming freshman who played a key role at quarterback for the junior high team last year. He is quick with great hands for a young receiver and carrying quarterback experience. He will be worked in at receiver to build a strong connection with Criss.
Brodie Crites, Central Plains
Crites has started at quarterback for Central Plains since his freshman year and has earned multiple all-league, all-district and all-state honors. Despite the accolades across all sports, he remains grounded, constantly working and asking questions to improve himself and his team. He enters his senior campaign hungry to lead the Oilers with a chip on his shoulder.
Jason Smith, Circle
Smith amassed 1,000 all-purpose yards as a sophomore. He earned second-team all-conference honors and is poised to build on that breakout season.
Westin Johnson, Circle
Johnson started the second half of the season on the offensive line as a freshman. His early varsity experience should pay off as he continues to grow into a key contributor up front.
Kyzler Damman, Clifton-Clyde
Damman is a tough football player who works extremely hard and understands the game at a high level. After gaining varsity experience at wide receiver and running back, he helped run a dual-quarterback system last year and now steps in as the starting quarterback. He had a strong offseason in the weight room and on the track, where his speed and quickness have improved.
Ryan LeClair, Clifton-Clyde
LeClair is a self-driven, hard-working young man who puts in extra effort when nobody is watching to refine his craft. Humble and focused on being the best he can be, he provides steady leadership for Clifton-Clyde.
Trenton Benne, Clifton-Clyde
Benne will be one of Clifton-Clyde’s main go-to targets this season. After adding more than 20 pounds of muscle in the offseason, the 6-foot, 205-pound receiver presents a tough matchup for defenses. He is an avid bow hunter who enjoys spending time outdoors with his father.
Braun Stone Columbus
Stone was Columbus’ leading tackler and an all-league selection as a junior. He has grown into a solid player and will be counted on as one of the senior leaders this season.
Jace Gaither, Columbus
Gaither was one of the most consistent defensive players as a freshman, improving each week and reliably doing what was asked with strong effort and attention to detail. Coaches are excited about his continued development.
Shade Schuberger, Columbus
Schuberger is a senior linebacker and running back who, along with senior Trent Lacen, takes the responsibilities of being a senior leader seriously. Both players are hard workers and represent Columbus Titan football well in academics, community standing and overall work ethic.
Bryce Osner, Conway Springs
Osner spends much of his time hunting and enjoying the outdoors. His love for rural life translates into a tough, physical presence on the field.
Caleb Newell, Conway Springs
Newell is a returning two-year starter who has played on both the offensive and defensive line. Coming off a knee injury that will sideline him for the first half of the season, he remains a hardworking player hungry to come back stronger than before.
Gabe Tarrant, Conway Springs
Tarrant is in line to be the signal-caller for Conway Springs in 2026. He combines work ethic, athleticism and vision, giving the Cardinals a promising leader at quarterback.
Lucas Billups, Conway Springs
Billups is another senior returning starter who played tight end last season and showed excellent footwork. At 6-foot-3 and 240 pounds, he will move to tackle and also line up at defensive end, using his size and agility to anchor both lines.
Lucas Pauly, Conway Springs
Pauly is a multi-sport athlete who motivates everyone around him. His energy and drive help raise the overall level of the program.
Stephen Kerschen, Cunningham
Kerschen has all the tools to impact the game on both sides of the ball. He will make plays in every phase and has done a great job mentoring younger players as a solid young man and leader.
Diego Barco, Elkhart
Barco is willing to play wherever the team needs him and will step into a leadership role on and off the field. He is primarily a wide receiver who will also see reps at running back and quarterback. Barco helps in all three phases and contributes alongside fellow linemen Leland Knelsen and Cooper Fink, who are beginning to realize their potential to dominate the line of scrimmage.
Drake Sparkman, Elkhart
Sparkman will be a sophomore starter on both sides of the ball. His early impact positions him as a key piece for Elkhart.
Carson Jacobs, Ellsworth
Jacobs is a strong leader who enjoyed a very good sophomore season at quarterback. He leads vocally and by example, committing fully to every sport he plays for the Bearcats and drawing comparisons to past great leaders like Will Cravens.
Gage Laas, Ellsworth
Laas had a great junior varsity season and filled important special teams roles last year. Coaches expect him to be a physical presence and smart defensive player who can put teammates in the right spots pre-snap after a tremendous offseason.
Tate Scott, Eureka
Scott is a talented young quarterback with multiple gifts. Coaches consider him perhaps the best pure thrower they have had, and his sharp mind further excites the staff about his future.
Beau Hall, Flinthills
Hall finished his junior season with more than 1,800 rushing yards, earning first-team honors in the South Central Border League at both running back and linebacker, Grasslands All-Stars offensive recognition, district and all-state honors at athlete, and a full-ride offer to Butler County Community College. A 3.75 GPA student with aspirations for medical school, he is an all-around standout whose leadership shows in the school culture and on the field.
Lane Jenkins, Flinthills
Jenkins was all over the field on special teams as a freshman and saw time as a backup running back and linebacker. His versatility and effort mark him as a rising contributor.
Drew Strecker, Garden City
Strecker plays tight end and linebacker and stands out on both sides of the ball. He brings a wealth of experience from previous seasons and will serve as a leader for the Buffaloes this year.
Hudson Holguin, Garden City
Holguin is a strong lineman and an even better young man. He mentors in the school’s Buffalo Coffee Shop program, helping special education students learn life skills, and will travel with them on a week-long trip to Florida, reflecting his desire to help others.
Tate Heavner, Garden City
Heavner started at quarterback as a freshman and has the tools to become an all-state passer. His competitive nature and leadership ability give him a legitimate shot at earning Division I opportunities and recognition among the best quarterbacks in Kansas.
Ryder Carr, Garden City
Carr is a two-way starter at wide receiver and a dangerous deep threat with elite speed. On defense he is a strong coverage player, and he has excelled in track with a 10.48 in the 100 meters and multiple offers in both sports.
Braylen Dold, Garden Plain
Dold is a three-sport athlete in football, basketball and track with a tremendous work ethic. He elevates those around him. Entering his third season, he again serves as a squad leader, impacting the game as a running back and quarterback on offense, starting defensive back, punter and explosive return man. He has collected numerous all-league, all-district and all-state honors, including multiple first-team defensive back recognitions.
Jared Flax, Garden Plain
Flax is also a three-sport athlete in basketball and baseball and stays involved in various school activities and church events. After missing his sophomore football season due to injury, he attended every practice and essentially acted as another assistant coach, bringing insight, energy and a 4.0 GPA standard to the program.
Jaxx Dreiling, Garden Plain
Dreiling played second-team quarterback as a freshman and is a huge part of the Garden Plain program. He is one of the strongest leaders in the locker room, has a powerful work ethic and remains very active in school programs.
Sawyer Aryes, Garden Plain
Aryes is a three-sport athlete who also wrestles and runs track. His work ethic shows not only in football but through his commitments to trap shooting, FFA and extensive farm responsibilities, including harvest, cattle work, equipment maintenance and haying. He balances school, athletics and his many hobbies like a full-time job.
Carson McCall, Gardner-Edgerton
McCall is an intelligent, hard-working leader. As a dual-threat quarterback, he runs the ball effectively, makes smart decisions and throws with accuracy, giving Gardner-Edgerton a versatile offensive weapon.
Easton Vesey, Gardner-Edgerton
Vesey is a tremendous athlete and an outstanding baseball player. His athletic IQ is high, and he brings that understanding to the football field.
Brogan Wray, Haven
Wray is a quiet leader who leads by example, missing summer work only for family baseball trips. He was inducted into the National Honor Society as a junior and is a favorite of younger students during the team’s breakfast visits at the grade school, making him as easy to have in class as he is to coach.
Paxton Bluebaugh, Haven
Bluebaugh enjoys hunting deer, turkey, pheasant, duck and goose, sharing those experiences with family and classmates. His favorite school spirit days are those with camouflage themes, reflecting his love of the outdoors.
Sadler Defrain, Haven
Defrain is projected to start at linebacker after seeing backup reps last season. He is an anchor on defense. Outside of football, he had a strong wrestling campaign, competes in track and maintains straight A’s.
Cooper Cranston, Holcomb
Cranston has been an incredible multi-sport athlete for Holcomb, earning offensive player of the year honors as a sophomore, leading the state in interceptions for part of the year, and breaking the Kansas record in the 110 hurdles while medaling in the 300 hurdles, javelin and helping win a state title in the 4×100 relay. His athletic ability and high character have drawn offers from Kansas State, Kansas, Oklahoma State, Minnesota and Eastern Michigan.
Ryan Wickwar, Holcomb
Wickwar stepped in at quarterback around week three as a freshman and has worked hard to develop as an athlete in the offseason. At roughly 6-foot-2 and 150 pounds, he has already contributed in varsity basketball for a state-qualifying team and started in baseball, showing growth across multiple sports.
Keegan Nothern, Ingalls
Nothern stands out as both a player and person. Despite a broken wrist cutting short his season, he still earned first-team all-state honors and leads by example, holding teammates accountable when they do not meet Ingalls’ standards and stepping out of his brother’s shadow to forge his own path.
Cole Rapp, Kapaun
Rapp led Kapaun to a state title and serves as the team’s leader. His poise and command of the offense drive the Crusaders.
Ken Huff, Kapaun
Huff is regarded as one of the best running backs in Kansas after rushing for more than 1,700 yards. He played full games in only seven of the team’s 13 contests, making his production even more impressive.
Axton Vice, Leon-Bluestem
Vice is the leader of Leon-Bluestem’s football team. Coaches believe that without his late-season injury, the team would have averaged more than 100 rushing yards per game, and he is also a state champion wrestler and two-time state champion powerlifter.
Taden Gottschalk, Logan
Gottschalk is an honor student with outstanding character. He is always willing to help in any way he can and sets a positive example.
Brendan Loyd Counter, Logan
Counter led Logan in tackles as a sophomore with 64 stops from the nose guard position. At 5-foot-11 and 270 pounds, he brings great motor and toughness to the defensive front.
Jackson Howard, Marion
Howard is a smart, hard-working athlete who is just now realizing how good he can be on the football field. After viewing himself as primarily a basketball player, he recently earned an offer from Butler Community College to play football and, as a coachable leader, will anchor both the offensive and defensive lines.
Jymer Raymer, Marion
Raymer will step into a completely new offense as a sophomore quarterback and run the show. He is intelligent, tough and sees the field well, making this a pivotal year for his maturation and command of the team.
Cooper Scharff, Marmaton Valley
Scharff is a great kid and a playmaker on both sides of the ball. Explosive with the ball in his hands, he is a home-run threat every time he touches it.
Ethan Lawson, Marmaton Valley
Lawson is a 6-foot-4, 190-pound tight end and pass rusher who combines size and speed. Coaches expect him to have a big season as a mismatch in the passing game and a force off the edge.
Jeremaine Conley, Meade
Conley emerged as a VYPE Kansas player last season and shined as a sophomore. At 6-foot-2 and 185 pounds entering his junior year, he will play wide receiver and defensive back after posting 727 receiving yards on 35 catches with 13 touchdowns and finishing third on the team in tackles.
Titus Ritter, Meade
Ritter has become a dominant presence on the football field at 6-foot-4 and 244 pounds, but what sets him apart is his character away from the game. He consistently does the right thing, treats others with respect, leads by example and represents his program with pride, making him as valuable for his integrity and selflessness as for his physical play.
Oliver Deters, Mission Valley
Deters is poised to start as a freshman at the varsity level. He repeatedly showed high-level ability in summer camps against older competition from bigger schools.
Spencer Brown, Mission Valley
Brown is a consistent hunter and outdoorsman who excels across seasons. He is also an avid fisherman, bringing patience and focus from the field to the gridiron.
Westyn Zirkle, Mission Valley
Zirkle is a four-year starter who has endured ups and downs while leading Mission Valley’s program. He never asks to come out of games, loves football deeply and carries the talent to match his passion for the team.
Jake Mills, Mission Valley
Mills is known for consistently doing the right thing, earning attention through social media posts praising his actions when he thought no one was watching, including making sure a restaurant stayed clean during a team visit. He maintains excellent grades and nearly perfect attendance, reflecting his strong character.
Layton Chesmore, Mission Valley
Chesmore excels in the classroom and logged significant varsity time as a freshman linebacker. He will look to fill a crucial role in the Mission Valley defense in 2026.
Logan Wulf, Moundridge
Wulf is one of the highest-character players his coaches have worked with. He stays after workouts and practices to help pick up, consistently works hard, remains coachable and excels in the weight room with a 550-pound squat, 275-pound bench and 280-pound hang clean, making him a valuable asset on either side of the ball.
Corbin Shelton, Nickerson
Shelton plays a big role on the football team and also competes in powerlifting, baseball and the trap club. He is consistently the top marksman in trap and puts up impressive numbers across his sports.
David Maehs, Nickerson
Maehs will be a two-way player who saw increasing varsity time toward the end of last season. As a freshman he was a freak in the weight room, squatting 415, benching 245, hang cleaning 235 and posting a 26.5-inch vertical.
KC Keeler, Nickerson
Keeler is a great human being and will be a major leader for Nickerson next year. His character and leadership will guide the Panthers.
Rylan Morrell, Nickerson
Morrell has been a three-year starter at running back and linebacker and will move more into a defensive back role this season. He is simply a great athlete and football player who has crushed offseason work in the weight room. Morrell has become more vocal as he steps into a leadership role.
Easton Schroeder, Norwich
Schroeder is the cornerstone of Norwich football and its most consistent contributor on both sides of the ball. He earned a captaincy as a sophomore due to his work ethic, leads in nearly every offensive and defensive category, and participates in basketball, track, and multiple student organizations, projecting as one of the top eight-man players in Kansas by his senior year.
Lucas Fisher, Norwich
Fisher is one of the most respectful, high-character students his coach has ever met. He works extremely hard, battles through injuries like broken bones without losing his positive outlook, serves as an FFA officer and leads team prayers before games and after practices, consistently putting teammates first.
Desmond Washington, Olathe East
Washington is a 6-foot-3, 185-pound H-back who will enter his third year as a varsity starter on offense and is expected to contribute more on defense. He recorded more than 350 rushing yards and 350 receiving yards last season, showcasing his versatility as a runner and receiver and drawing recruiting interest as a two-sport athlete who also starts in basketball.
Greg Decker, Olathe East
Decker is a 6-foot-6, 330-pound offensive lineman and returning starter at strong tackle. He is a dominant run blocker trusted in critical situations, a Sunflower League shot put champion who placed at state in shot and discus. He is a highly sought-after recruit with multiple scholarship offers, establishing himself as one of the premier linemen in Kansas.
Daniel Ross, Osawatomie
Ross is a high-character person who always puts the team before himself. He works hard in practice, the classroom and the weight room and exemplifies what positive thinking can achieve, making him a pleasure to have on the roster.
Jaxson Mysliwski, Osawatomie
Mysliwski is a rising sophomore who may not be big but is extremely tough and athletically gifted. He is still learning the game but enjoys football and competes hard.
Roscoe Flanagan, Osawatomie
Flanagan is tall, athletic and possesses good hands. His physical tools make him a promising target in the passing game.
Logan Gaither, Oxford
Gaither is a tough, physical player on both sides of the ball and a two-year starter at middle linebacker. He carried most of the snaps in Oxford’s wildcat formations, rushing for 1,200 yards in games that often ended before halftime. He is also an excellent student in the classroom.
Bodhi Shay, Paola
Shay earned honorable mention all-4A, all-conference and all-Tri-County honors as a sophomore. He rushed for more than 1,000 yards and 14 touchdowns while adding 200 receiving yards. He has had a great summer preparing for the upcoming season and is poised for another big year.
Mason Stein, Paola
Stein also earned honorable mention all-4A and all-Tri-County recognition as a sophomore. He broke Paola’s school passing record with more than 1,300 yards and 12 touchdowns and will be a key leader in the Panthers’ aerial attack.
Dayton Reeves, Pike Valley
Reeves is an all-around athlete who can play any position on offense and defense and handles kick and punt returns. He is a playmaker capable of explosive gains with his speed and shifty running and has worked hard in the weight room, basketball and track to prepare for another strong football season.
Hutch Hammer, Pike Valley
Hammer saw snaps on both sides of the ball as a freshman, blocking well as a guard, catching passes when lined up at end and making correct reads at linebacker as an aggressive downhill defender. His offseason work in the weight room has coaches excited to see his progression.
Logan Dahl, Pike Valley
Dahl is a senior who has battled injuries every season since his freshman year but continues to attend practice and serve as one of the team’s top leaders. Coaches often reference him when teaching players to always do the right thing, and they look forward to his leadership this summer and fall.
Easton McCarty, Piper
McCarty earned first-team all-UKC and honorable mention all-state defensive back honors as a junior. A team captain and high-character kid, he is a key leader in Piper’s secondary.
Roman Byers Jr., Piper
Byers was a first-team all-state running back as a junior and is an elite playmaker committed to South Dakota. A team captain, he is a dynamic offensive weapon and respected leader.
Dawsyn Mooney, Pittsburg
Mooney is a true outdoorsman who loves fishing, hunting and spending time outside, particularly turkey hunting. His passion for the outdoors shapes his personality off the field.
JaMarcus Davis, Pittsburg
Davis has been a utility player on both offense and defense, stepping in at quarterback after Week 3 and starting in the secondary at cornerback for two seasons. He is a versatile athlete and the best ball carrier on the team, making plays whenever he touches the ball.
Kingztun Pollard, Pittsburg
Pollard is an underclassman who earned playing time as a freshman. He works hard, competes in varsity wrestling and coaches hope he can make key plays for the Dragons this year.
Max Busch, Pittsburg
Busch is the type of player coaches wish they could replicate across the roster. He is the glue that holds the team together through great attitude, effort and leadership.
Aaron Cook, Pleasanton
Cook is an extremely hard worker who has devoted himself to the weight room since last football season. A bright, team-first player, he cares more about collective success than individual accolades.
Braden Hutchison, Pleasanton
Hutchison will be a junior who, despite being undersized, works and leads like he is the biggest, strongest athlete on the team. He remains selfless and does whatever he can to help the program.
Brayden Johnson Pleasanton
Johnson, a senior, who moved into the district during basketball season is an explosive and versatile athlete. He can do anything asked of him on the football field.
Ryker Carpenter, Pleasanton
Carpenter is a quality young man stepping up as a team leader. As an outdoorsman, he particularly enjoys fishing and hunting, bringing that patience and focus to football.
Easton Koehn, Remington
Koehn has as much upside as any athlete his coach has seen. Raw but gifted, he could separate himself as one of the better players in the conference if he continues to work hard and avoid complacency.
Rueben Jury, Remington
Jury is the smartest and most physical player on the Remington roster. He knows every defensive call, lines up others correctly, loves contact and is as good a middle linebacker as his coach has encountered.
Halen Ludacka, Republic County
Ludacka saw the field on special teams as a freshman. He may not start on offense or defense yet, but his potential to be the next man up is clear.
Nick Kendall, Republic County
Kendall is the top returning running back and a hard-hitting middle linebacker. His physical style and reliability make him a central figure.
Aydin Witherspoon, Riverton
Witherspoon is an outstanding athlete who moved to quarterback after three games last season and quickly became a strong leader. Previously used at running back and slot receiver to get the ball in his hands, he now powers the run game from quarterback. He led Riverton in receiving yards, finished second in rushing behind Noah Parker, and plays athletic safety on defense.
Noah Parker, Riverton
Parker is a downhill tailback who rushed for more than 1,000 yards as part of Riverton’s two-headed backfield. He goes at full speed all the time, was arguably the best outside linebacker in the league, led the team in tackles and forced opponents to run away from his side. He is a premier two-way player.
Caleb Williams, Rose Hill
Williams is a gritty offensive and defensive lineman who should be a valuable contributor. His toughness and willingness to battle in the trenches anchor the Rockets’ front.
Josh Rodewald, Royal Valley
Rodewald is a three-time team-elected captain, a 100% weight-room presence, a National Honor Society member who is on track to be valedictorian with a 4.30 weighted GPA. He logs roughly 20–25 hours of community service each year. His combination of academic excellence, volunteerism and leadership defines Royal Valley football.
Ryker Warton, Royal Valley
Warton is projected to start on both sides of the ball for the next three years. A 100% weight-room guy and tremendous three-sport athlete, he brings durability and competitiveness to the program.
Dom Matteucci, Sacred Heart
Matteucci is a true Swiss Army knife who will be a threat all over the field and on both sides of the ball. He has led Sacred Heart in yards per carry and solo tackles per game over the last two seasons, while also excelling in basketball, powerlifting and contributing to multiple golf state titles.
Landon Pfiefer, Sacred Heart
Pfiefer started every game on the offensive and defensive lines last season. He has led the way in offseason weight room work and lives and breathes football, providing the kind of presence every great team needs.
Elijah Carter, Salina South
Carter is a strong, powerful lineman at 6-foot-2 and 270 pounds who moves well for his size. Coming off a freshman-year injury, he is expected to take a big step forward and help solidify the offensive front.
Jaxton Kitchener, Salina South
Kitchener is undersized but plays much bigger than his frame. Coaches call him “Mr. Reliable” because he blocks well, catches everything thrown his way and serves as a primary punt and kick returner.
Jay Curtis, Salina South
Curtis is a two-year starter with multiple college offers and the potential for a huge senior season. With more than 1,300 receiving yards over the last two years, he is a major Friday night threat who will draw heavy defensive attention.
Armane Redmond, Salina South
Redmond is a great leader who works extremely hard in the weight room and classroom. Having played varsity football since early in his career, he is driven to finish with a successful senior season.
Carlos Cruz, Salina South
Cruz is a freshman wide receiver and defensive back who has impressed coaches with his balance, coordination and understanding of the game. His potential marks him as a rising star for the Cougars.
Edgar Najera, Satanta
Najera has spent three seasons under his current coach and remains a source of pride thanks to his hard work and positive attitude. He shows up every day, pushes himself, motivates those around him and has earned all-league honors in each of the last two seasons, with expectations for more this year.
Kace Wenta, Satanta
Wenta began last season as the backup quarterback but became the starter by Game 2. Even as a freshman he stepped into a leadership role and delivered several strong performances.
Marshall Alexander, Satanta
Alexander entered last year as the starting quarterback but had his season cut short by an ATV accident that left him with a broken wrist. Rather than withdraw, he remained on the sideline supporting his teammates, filling manager duties and even scout-team roles despite wearing a cast and sling. He provided crucial help for a small roster.
Will Skaggs, Shawnee Heights
Skaggs is a three-year starter with multiple second-team all-UKC and honorable mention all-state honors. He is receiving interest and potential offers from MIAA and Ivy League schools and is a proven leader for Shawnee Heights.
Branson Hoffman, South Gray
Hoffman is a strong, physical player who led South Gray in tackles as a sophomore and was among the leaders as a freshman. He also served as the fullback on offense last season and will see an expanded role carrying the football.
Tyler Thiessen, South Gray
Thiessen started both ways as a freshman, quickly making an impact. Dedicated to the weight room and active in three sports, he has added significant strength and weight and will be one of South Gray’s featured running backs and defensive anchors.
Dalton Kelly, South Sumner
Kelly is the leader of South Sumner’s offensive line and anchors a front that returns every starter from last year. His consistency helped the offense rush for 1,828 yards and 24 touchdowns, and on defense he racks up tackles at linebacker with high production in solo, assisted, and tackles for loss. He is a dominant force as the program transitions back to eight-man football.
Mak Blosser, South Sumner
Blosser has run the offense for three years, totaling 4,569 yards and 70 touchdowns while contributing at defensive back, punter and kicker. Last season he completed more than 65 percent of his passes for 846 yards, led the team with 916 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. His decision-making and dual-threat ability make him a major challenge for defenses in eight-man play.
Angel Gonzalez, Stanton County
Gonzalez is a very quick runner who made a big offensive impact and finished second on the team in tackles. If he gets a step, he can break off a big gain and remains a playmaker in all phases of the game.
Bo Allen, Stanton County
Allen is a farm kid who shows 4-H animals and does the dirty work in the trenches. As a center and defensive end, he is the player every team needs to handle tough tasks without fanfare.
Carlos Ramos, Stanton County
Ramos is a respectful, honest student who consistently does the right thing. He is the best leader on the team and sets a strong example.
Josh Arceo, Stanton County
Arceo is a strong student and leader on and off the field with a nose for the football. He has transitioned from defensive line to middle linebacker and from offensive line to fullback, calling defensive plays and embracing every change without hesitation.
Zayne Maupin, Sylvan-Lucas Unified
Maupin is an extremely hard-working, well-rounded football player. His effort and versatility make him a key contributor.
Asher Filbeck, Topeka
Filbeck moved to Topeka when his father took the coaching job and has quickly bonded with the team, serving as president of a new FCA chapter he helped start. He is a three-sport athlete with a 4.3 GPA who hopes to become a pastor. He will likely start on offense at either quarterback or wide receiver.
Kayden Lucas, Topeka
Lucas is a great all-around football player who will start at either quarterback or slot as a sophomore and likely start at safety on defense. A natural athlete and hard-working, coachable three-sport competitor, he brings energy across football, basketball and track.
Hudson Deines, Trego-WaKeeney
Deines is a senior offensive and defensive lineman whose work ethic is relentless, both on and off the field. He runs his own mowing business, plays three sports during the school year, competes in summer baseball and manages his time so his business never interferes with academics or athletics, earning respect from teachers and teammates.
Jack Conness, Trego-WaKeeney
Conness is a dedicated, hardworking running back who has started for two years and been integral to Trego-WaKeeney’s offensive success. He has focused intensely on offseason improvement and naturally goes out of his way to help teammates.
Tripp Hudson, Trego-WaKeeney
Hudson will be a major defensive piece this fall. He has worked to earn the trust of coaches and teammates, showing great dedication and tremendous improvement over the last year.
Carson Bergsten, Triplains
Bergsten enters his third year as a starter and has been a Swiss Army knife, filling many different roles on offense and defense. His daily offseason work ethic and constant focus on footwork, technique and leadership make him the backbone of the Triplains program.
Christian Rodriguez, Turner
Rodriguez plays defensive end and tight end and has started every game since midway through his freshman season. He is a leader in the classroom and on the field, shuts down half the field defensively, handles key blocks on offense. He has drawn significant college interest with multiple offers.
Julian Garcia, Ulysses
Garcia is a young player with a tremendous upside. Last year he served as a Swiss Army knife, playing several positions with great speed and toughness. He is expected to have a breakout sophomore season.
Stryker Berglund, Ulysses
Berglund is a special, undersized linebacker and running back who plays much bigger than his listed size. He was a consistent performer on both sides of the ball last season and coaches expect huge things from him this year.
RayJ Logan, Valley Center
Logan is a senior wide receiver who set school records with 51 catches and 678 yards last season and now has 81 career receptions, earning first-team all-AVCTL I and all-state recognition across several outlets. He has been honored multiple times in previous seasons and remains one of the top receivers in Kansas.
Spencer Crumrine, Valley Center
Crumrine is a junior wide receiver who set a school record with 735 receiving yards on 50 catches in 2026, earning first-team all-AVCTL I and all-state honors. He previously collected all-league and all-state recognition at Sedgwick and continues to be a major offensive threat.
Colton Imthurn, Wabaunsee
Imthurn was very aggressive on defense as a freshman and appeared in numerous varsity games. He played like an upperclassman and is expected to continue growing into a defensive leader.
Logan Fulton, Wamego
Fulton, a junior quarterback, completed nearly 74% of his passes last season for 2,238 yards and 25 touchdowns. He has offers from Washburn, Central Missouri and Hutchinson and serves as a high-efficiency leader for Wamego’s offense.
Gavin Schmitter, Wichita Collegiate
Schmitter is a high-motor, two-way player and strong student. He has continued to get bigger, faster and stronger in the offseason. He committed to Friends University, and aims for a big senior campaign.
Jai Johnson, Wichita Collegiate
Johnson started the last five games as a freshman and is a very good athlete. He was the seventh man on a state championship basketball team and had an excellent freshman track season. He is projected nas an explosive multi-sport contributor.
Ender Taylor, Wichita East
Taylor is a hard-working athlete who strives to excel in everything he does, from academics as an IB student to football, powerlifting and shot put, where he is one of the top freshmen in Kansas. He sets goals and relentlessly pursues them, making him a special prospect.
Prince Marshall, Wichita East
Marshall is a hard worker and the overall best player on Wichita East’s roster. He will finally get the opportunity to play on both sides of the ball, fulfilling a long-held desire to contribute more broadly.
Ty Greeson, Wichita East
Greeson is a great kid from a great family with a strong work ethic and positive attitude. He keeps his head down and gets to work, and coaches wish they had dozens more just like him.
Ashton Upham, Wichita Trinity
Upham started 6 of 9 games as a freshman linebacker and will play a major role at slot receiver on offense. He is athletic, big and physical, giving Wichita Trinity a versatile young playmaker.
Bryton Baty, Wichita Trinity
Baty is one of the best high school receivers his coach has seen, running clean routes, catching everything and possessing elite speed. He plays both ways and earned all-state honors on offense and defense last season.
Weston Woltjer, Wichita Trinity
Woltjer is regarded as having the best character on the team, always kind, coachable and appreciative. He shakes each coach’s hand after every practice or lift. After starting football last year and working hard to improve, he has put himself in position to earn playing time.
Ceaser Muniz, Wichita West
Muniz is a sophomore who had a strong season as a defensive starter last year. He will play a key role in Wichita West’s success this fall.
Emiliano Sosa, Wichita West
Sosa is a high-character young man who embodies the Pioneer Way, putting the program first. He dominates in the classroom, works tirelessly and holds teammates accountable. He serves as a model leader.
Jacobe and Jeremiah Copes, Wichita West
The Copes brothers form a great fishing tandem who love spending time by the water. They often encourage teammates to join them, building camaraderie away from the field.
Landon Hauser, Wichita West
Hauser is a two-sport athlete and natural leader. He is one of Wichita West’s hardest workers, leading by example and voice. He gives maximum effort in everything and is expected to have a big year.
Dane Chattam, Winfield
Chattam is a great leader and exceptional athlete with elite speed. His combination of talent and leadership makes him a focal point for Winfield’s program.
