The summer workouts ended in late July when official fall practice began for Polk County's high school football teams. As coaches put their players through preseason practice, The Ledger spotlighted the top senior prospects, top players at their respective positions, gave a quick breakdown on how their respective district shaped up and began featuring top players to watch. To wrap up preseason coverage, here is a quick team-by-team look, highlighting each team’s top players and what to watch for each team in the county. The 11-week season — 10 games with a bye week for each team — begins Friday with some local rivalry matchups along with along with one of the premier matchups in the first week when Lake Wales plays host to DeLand.
ALL SAINTS Head Coach: Jason Smith (2nd year, 14-15 overall). Coaching Staff: Jim Wright (DC) , Shawn Finnigan, Al Bellotto, Julian Madrigal, David Graham, Julio Madrigal, Mark Dessart (Strength & Conditioning) Chelsea Iglesias- Athletic Trainer. 2025 Record: 9-2 (SSAA 8-man champion). Key Losses: RB/LB Jackson Waters, QB Jayden Watson. Players to watch: WR/TE Josh Koch, OL/DL Dalton Woodard, ATH Robbie Norris, WR/ DB Owen Shoultz (Jr.), LB/RB Xavier Robinson (Jr.), ATH/QB Trey Bellotto (So.), RB/DB Max Dyer (So.), ATH Sam Railey (So.), WR/DB Cal O’Connor, OL/DL Dalton Bawcum (So.), WR/DB Zach Shoultz (So.), WR/DB Jordan Almonte, OL/ DL Cam Robinson (Fr.). Outlook: Last year’s back up quarterback Trey Bellotto takes over the offense. He is coming off of a 300-yard passing performance in the championship game and is a true dual threat. The Saints have strength at running back and wide receiver with Josh Koch, Cal O’Connor, Robbie Norris, Owen Shoultz at Sam Railey at receiver, and Xavier Robinson and Max Dyer at running back. As a small school, all these players also will be key players defensively. After winning the SSAA 8-man championship, All Saints moves back to the FHSAA and will play 11-man football in the Independent division. The Saints also will be playing public schools for the first time since 2008 when they play Discovery.
AUBURNDALE Head Coach: Antonio Thomas (14-7, 3rd year). Coaching Staff: Devone Williams (DC), Gee Parrish Jr. (OC), Kyle Slagel (LB), Jamal Douglas (DL), Lloyd Hughart (QB), Artavis Pierce (RB), Charlie Shaw (OL), Khari Hillard (DE), Keith Edward-Fleming (WR). 2025 Record: 8-3. Key Losses: James Tilus, Elijah Dias, Riley Cooper, Gavin Hall, Jordan Taver, Darion Jiles, David Bess, Trey Sullivan, Cassidy Erivin, Willie Manual Players to watch: QB Teo Edwards 5-11, 180, So.), WR Takeo Edwards (5-10, 160, Sr.), WR Major McBath (6-0, 180, Sr.), WR Camron Cox (5-8, 150, Sr.), OL Cole O’Hara (5-8, 250, Sr.), OT James Stubbs (6-4, 290, Jr.), OG Theo Island (5-9, 285, Sr.), DE Micheal Gaskins (6-4, 245, Sr.), DB Adonis Cuyler 6-0, 171, Sr.), LB Malichi Moore (6-0, 220, Sr.), DB Kris Williams (6-0, 160, Sr.). Outlook: Offensively, the Bloodhounds should be explosive in the passing game with Teo Edwards at quarterback and Takeo Edwards, Major McBath and Camron Cox as the top receivers. Teo Edwards running will also be big. The rest of the running game will depend on the development of the offensive line. If Anthony Howard Jr. makes it back during the season at running back, that will give the team a boost too. Defensively, Auburndale lost some key players, especially James Tilus and Elijah Dias. However, the addition of defensive lineman Michal Gaskins and linebacker Malichi Moore should fill those holes. The front seven that includes Gaskins, Moore, Cash Nealy, Kodi Wright, Andy Westery. The addition of Adonis Cuyler will help the secondary. Auburndale moves into a district with Lakeland. While the Dreadnaughts are the heavy favorite, Auburndale should be a playoff contender.
BARTOW Head Coach: Grady Morrell (2nd year) Coaching Staff: DJ Croley (OC/QBs), Robert Scott (RB), John Davis/ Jayvon Young (WR), Michael Pabon (TE), John Nelson (OL), Grady Morrell (DEF Coord), Jalen Miller (DB), D’Jimon Collins (LB), Kenny Lewis (DL), Scott Sjoblum (Football Operations) 2025 Record: 3-7. Key Losses: Josiah White, Kendrick Stacey, Caleb Bell, Carl Thomas, Ethan Brous, Camden Hall, John Barnes, Levi Peeples. Players to watch: QB Amire Hall (5-8, 168, Sr.), RB Brayden Scott (5-11, 170, Sr.). ATH Ja’Kobie Terry (5-8, 165, Sr.), WR Erik Koshinski (5-10, 170, Sr.), WR Moscow Shaw (5-9, 170, Jr.), WR Santana Allen (5-7, 150, Fr.), DB Shamarie Callins (5-11, 160, Sr.), DB La’Darrian Adams (5-11, 171, Sr.), DB Alexander Garcia (5-10, 175, Sr.), DB Levonta Tubbs (5-11, 150, Jr.), DB Alijah Galva (5-9, 165, Jr.), LB Dajon Tollie (6-2, 210, Jr.), DE Brysyn Walters (6-3, 230, Jr.), LB Jacob Richardson (5-10, 195, Jr.), DL Carmello Harden (6-2, 305, Jr.). Outlook: The Yellow Jackets’ passing game was gutted with the graduation of quarterback Ethan Brous and the transfer of key receivers, but the addition of quarterback Amire Hall and wide receiver Erik Koshinski and the return of No. 1 receiver Ja’Kobie Terry should soften the blow. The addition of Braydon Scott will bolster the running game. Three-year starter Carmello Harden will anchor the defensive line, and linebacker Jacob Richardson, the leading tackler, returns. Alijah Galva and Dajon Tollie lead the secondary. Bartow has the chance to improve to at least .500 but are in a challenging district and late schedule. The Yellow Jackets end the season with a gauntlet of Lakeland, Osceola and Lake Wales.
DAVENPORT Head Coach: Ryan Mills (2nd year, 4-5, 41-41 overall). Coaching Staff: Marion Larkins, Jerrel Barney, Alex Colson, Mitchell Williamson, Daryl McGhee, Daniel Rojas, Yordan Colombo, Jaylon Morris Key Losses: Butter Johnson, Ryan Black, Josh Middleton, Johnathan Fields, Johnavon Fields, Landen Peter, Chris Silfe, King Everett, Steve Achille Players to watch: RB Daniel Jones (5-10), RB Trent Applewhaite-Newton (5-10, 175), Aiden Highland (5-10, 180), Xavier Johnson (5-10, 175), Quentin Marshall (6-3, 200). Outlook: With the graduation of quarterback Josh Middleton, the Broncos will build the offense around the running game led by Daniel Jones and Trent Applewhaite-Newton. The Broncos will look to the defense to carry a big roll.
DISCOVERY Head Coach: Keyonta Townsel (2nd year). Coaching Staff: Quintin Sejour, Allen Myrtil, Martel Pope, Dexter Hall, William Jones SR, Evette Threets. 2025 Record: 0-10 . Key Losses: Jyrine Hazelton, Terrance Threeths . Players to watch: QB/ATH Isaiah Hubbert (5-9, 165, Jr.), WR/DB Dallas Williams (5-8, 155, So.), RB/LB Yartnuel Mangual (5-7, 165, Jr.), WR/DB Dayshawn Decosey (6-3, 175, Jr.), OL/DL William Jones Jr (5-7, 180, Jr., DL CJ Reece ( 6-0, 210, Sr.). Outlook: The Spartans return some young core players from last season who understand and know the system. Quarterback Isaiah Hubbert and wide receiver Dallas Willams will be key on offense and are looking for breakout seasons. Jermaine Wishart, Jedrick Rivera and William Jones Jr. should also be contributors. Dallas Williams, CJ Reece, Yartnuel Mangual, Jones and Wishart lead at the defense. After a winless season, the focus at the moment is just learning how to be competitive.
FROSTPROOF Head Coach: Richard Marsh (34th year overall). Coaching Staff: Dominque Wilson (OC), Clayton Monroe (DC), Sean McCraw (RB), Sam Billante (DL), Javier Gonzalez (OL), Shannon Benton (DB),Vince Garrett (DB), David Andrews (OLB), Joshua Johnson (LB), Jason True (H Back), Scott Jackson (Football Ops). 2025 Record: 8-3. Key Losses: Mekhi Guillaume (QB/DB), Charlie Plain (WR/DB), Deshawn Blocker (RB/LB), Hayden Starnes (OL/DL). Players to watch: RB/DB Antwan Cobb (5-7, 140), Shad Robey (5-7, 170), Hunter Brantley (5-11, 260), WR/DB Thomas Shields (6-1, 190), Elisha Andrews (6-0, 185), Elijah Ramirez (5-11, 180), Johnathan Frazer (5-11, 165), QB/DE Hazan Cobb, QB/DE Jden Plain, WR/DB Phillip Sutton, RB/DB Aidan Hamilton (5-8, 180). Outlook: The Bulldogs got a jump on the season as part of the Sunshine State Athletic Association and are 1-0 after a 35-12 thrashing of Clewiston. Antwan Cobb and Shad Robey will lead the offense, while Hunter Brantley leads the defense. Easton Bagwell will also be a player to watch.
FORT MEADE Head Coach: Maurice Russell. 2025 Record: 7-4. Key Losses: WR Omari Russell, RB Tyberius O’Neil, QB Jayden McCutchen. Players to watch: QB Gabriel Rivera (6-0, 185, Sr.), DE Antonio Glover (6-1, 220, Sr.), OL/DL Ty'Rin Graham (6-3, Sr.), DE/LB Jayden Dennis (6-0, 185). Outlook: The offense will be all new at the skill positions. Quarterback Gabriel Rivera, a transfer from Santa Fe Catholic, takes over for Jayden McCutchen, who transferred to Lake Region. The entire receiving corps will be new as everyone who caught a pass last season were seniors with the exception of running back Tyberius O’Neil, who is now at Winter Haven. Antonio Glover, who was second on the team with 70 tackles and led the team in sacks, will lead the defense.
GEORGE JENKINS Head Coach: Paul Freeman (5th year, 15-24). Coaching Staff: John Freeman (Asst. HC/DC), Zac Tallent (OC/QB), Kevin McCoullough ST/LB), Brody Miller (JV HC), Qasim Ward (WR), WR Pete Savastano, RB Sheldon Dennis, OL Anthony Savastano, LB Matt Costine, JV Matt Von Mosch, JV Bob Linder, JV Bubba Lambert. 2025 Record: 1-9. Key Losses: Elliot Ortiz, Josiah Grant, Tyrin Goode, Yomar Williamson, Cody Woodard, David Soto, Logan Lewis, Luke Wolf, Gian Velez . Players to watch: RB Malik Raymond (6-0, 205, Sr.), WR/DB Luke Martindale (5-8, 160, Sr.), LB Darius (DJ) Hayes (6-1, 215, Jr.), DB Josiah Richards (6-0, 175, Sr.), DB Jacob Soto (6-0, 170, Jr.), QB Brayden Padgett (6-2, 190, Sr.), WR/DB Sheldon (SJ) Dennis (5-11, 170, Fr.), WR She’Shawn James (6-0, 170, Fr.), DE William Reywaldt (6’3, 190, Jr.), LB Dylan (DK) King (5’11, 195, So,), TE Coleman Miller (5-11, 220, Jr), RB Carldez (Dez) Baker (5-11, 180, So.), K Campbell Mank (6-0, 180, Fr.), DL/LB Kam Jones (5-10, 215, Fr.), DB Ryan Boles (5-6” 150, So.), OL Dakota Steele (5-10, 235, Jr.), OL Tucker Sheets (6-0 275, Sr.), OL/DL Issac Soto (6-3, 220, Sr.), OL Matt Fernandez (5-10, 215, Sr.), OL Matthew Wutsch (6-4, 250, Jr.), DL Jonathan Wilson (6-4, 280lbs, So.). Outlook: The return of quarterback Brayden Padgett will spark the passing game and help the Eagles take advantage of a deep corps of receivers that include Luke Martindale (WR), Shawn James (WR), Sheldon Dennis (WR) returners Cole Miller (TE), Evan Shirley (WR), Carson Thacker (WR), Ty Latibeaudiere (WR). Malik Raymond and Dez Baker provide a 1-2 punch at running back. The offensive line, which was very young last year, returns of all five staters and should be improved. Linebackers DJ Hayes, Dylan King, Bryce Neumann will lead the defense. Jenkins is looking to rebuild the defensive line with Jonathan Wilson, William Reywaldt, Kam Jones, Khale Delapaz, Jermaine Harrison. Many of the receiver also will be important in the secondary. The Eagles should be improved from last year’s one-win season. How much improved remains the question, but they are in a district with no clear-cut favorite.
Haines City Head Coach: Pat Herrington (5th year, 26-24) Coaching Staff: Cleve Morrow (AHC), Raleigh Jackson, Micah Copeland, Jonathan Anglin, Geoff Hilson,Craig Ducking, Ben Krzeminski, Pat Herrington Jr, Beau Herrington. 2025 Record: 2-8. Key Losses: Damien Jackson, Sheron James, Jaiden Anglin, Dominique Conner, Jaime Rivera, Jean Beniquez. Players to watch: LB Dayren Rosa (5-11, 235, Sr.), RB Franc Guillaume (RB) 5’7 170 11th, WR/QB Blake Herrington (5-9, 170, (Sr.), WR Jaliq Anglin (5-9, 170), ATH CJ Ducking (6-0, 190, Nyzaiah Banks (5-8, 160, Jr.), WR Jesse Clark (5-9 170, Jr.), QB Yomar Lopez (5-10, 170, Jr.), WR Sterling Correa (6-0, 175, Jr.), Owen Faustin (5-10, 230, Jr.), OL Hollen Krzeminski (6-3, 270, Jr.), OL Jorge Luna (5-10, 230, Sr.) Outlook: Five experienced starters on the offensive line will help. The loss of their starting quarterback will hurt. If the Hornets can avoid using Blake Herrington behind center and keep him at receiver, they will have one of the top receivers in teh county. Six starters return on defense. KATHLEEN Head Coach: Kenny Kelly (2nd year, 2-8). Coaching Staff: Khafari Buffalo (DC), Shaka Burney, Kris Bellamy, Desmond Dyles, Frank Davis, James Ellison, Chris Ford, Demetrius Joseph, Greg Williams. 2025 Record: 2-8. Key Losses: Ashton Fraizer, Ayden Thomas. Players to watch: WR Amarii Huggins, RB/LB Ron Austin, WR/DB Tyrone Bell (6-2, 180), LB Max Cantrell (5-11, 185), LB Marcus Holloway (5-9, 165), DB A’keelyn Rumph (6-0, 190). Outlook: The loss of key players to graduation and transfer opens up opportunities for younger players. Austin, Huggins and Bell will be workhorses on offense. Last year’s leading tackler Holloway will lead the defense with Cantrell and Huggins.
LAKE GIBSON Head Coach: Jeff George. 2025 Record: 7-4. Key Losses: QB Brayden Padgett, RB Brian Mapp, WR Derrick McBride, LB Malachi Moore, DB Adonis Cuyler. Players to watch: WR Jase Severit (5-10, 170), QB Caleb McFarlane (5-10, 150), RB/lB Raymond Diaz (5-9, 200), DB Jeremiah Epps (6-0, 175), DE/LB Mason Desandolo (6-1, 210). Outlook: The Braves are rebuilding their offense after losing their leading passer, their No. 1 and No. 3 rushers and leading receiver to graduation and transfer. Defensively, the Braves lost their top two linebackers and top defensive back, but Mason Desandolo returns along with Jeremiah Epps.
LAKE REGION Head Coach: Jermain King (3rd year, 6-14). Coaching Staff: Tevin Toney (AHC), Curtis Lynch (STC), Jamal Johnson (DC), Mathew Ruiz (S&C/LB), Keyontre Haynes (JV HC), Kyle Joiner (OL), Zach Charles (WR), Rashad Vance (WR), Reggie Hurd (WR), Kelsheem White (RB), Ralph Cabrera (RB), Chad Kelly (QB), Chris Rich (QB), Cedric Rogers (DB), Patrick Shack (DL), William Rupp (JV), Benjamin Wyatt (JV). 2025 Record: 5-5. Key Losses: Jermaine May, Jonathan Michael, Iverson Brandon, Ja’Quarius Lucas, Najeh Miller, De’Quan Culpper, Le’Aundre Copeland. Players to watch: Ath Jayden McCutchen (5-10, 170, Sr.), Nickel/OLB Abraham Ponce (5-11, 190, Sr.), WR/DB Trent Copeland (5-10, 160, So.), WR/DB Xaden Olibrice (5-8, 150, Sr.), WR/DB Cody Jones (6-3, 160, Sr.), DL/OL Hunter Hillman (6-0, 250, Sr.), DL/OL Jace Coward (6-4, 240, Sr.), DL/OL An Join Horton (5-11, 250, Fr.), LB Zaccharri Charles (6-0, 200, Fr.), RB Eric Stephens (6-0, 195, So.), RB Josiya Wise (5-8, 165, Sr.), HB/DL/LB Jarien Wilson (5-11, 210, Sr.), CB/WR Lamar Christie (5-11, 170, Jr.), CB/WR Braylon Campbell (5-11 170 Sr.), DL/OL Clarens Charles (6-2, 235, Sr.), OL/DL Jayden Thompson (5-11, 260, Fr.). Outlook: The Thunder are looking to build on their 5-5 season of a year ago. Jayden McCutchen will lead the passing attack with Trent Copeland, Cody Jones and Caden Olibrice being wont the targets. The Thunder hope to play fast on offense. Defensively, they aim to be aggressive using various blitzes to apply pressure. Lake Region is in a tough district with Lake Wales and Jones. Their opening game against Winter Haven should tell us a lot about both teams.
LAKE WALES Head Coach: TaVaris Johnson (14th year). Coaching Staff: Rick Peters, Maeleesa Carr, Matt Cain, Marcus Walker Sr., Clemon VJ Davis, Channing Carithers, Terrell Davis, Donald Grant Jr. (DC), Donald Grant Sr., Tavaris Carr, Markel Andrews, Don Heyward, Harry Agee, Frank Lastinger, Cody Polston, James Levidiotis, Marvin Pavy, Scott Markley, 2025 Record: 10-3, (regional runner-up). Key Losses: WR Gabrielle Legrand (USF), DL Benjamin Alston (Valdosta State) DB Cedarius Christian (Bowling Green), DB Myrone Jean (Tulane), ATH Todd Daniels (NEO), Edge Walter Davis, D’Cari Smith (Stetson), OL Robert King George (Bluefield), OL Najee Reynolds (Avila), OL Semaj Ryan (Avila), K Isaac Rivera (SEU), QB Chad Williams, RB Kylor Sanford (Bluefield) S Sammy Parker, Center Joshua Guhman, WR Leidielle Bruno (Warner), S Cedric Nelson, DT Kyon Purdy, Edge Giovanni Thompson (Ohio Northern) RB/SLOT Assyiah Williams (SEU) Players to Watch: Ath Kamari Smith (5-11, 170, Sr.), WR/DB RaeShaun Pugh 6-0, 180, Sr.), DB Quay Herring 5-11, 170, Sr.), QB Kingston Loydd (So.), Ath Kaneilius Purdy 6-1, 205, Sr.), LB Loobensky LaFortune 6-2, 212, Sr.), DL Jerzy Lighten 6-4, 300, Sr.), Ath Ernest Hampton 6-1, 180, So.), OL Frank Lastinger 5’11” 220, WR Julien Parker 6’3” 205, WR Daniel James 5’11” 180, OL Jaiden Medard 6’2” 285, WR Fred Brown 6’, 165, Edge Idahanh Lazar 5’11” 215, Freshman DB Kyran Holmes 5’11” 165. Outlook: With running back Kamari Smith, wide receivers Kaneilius Purdy and Daniel James and quarterback Kingston Loydd learn the way, the Highlanders should have one of the most explosive offenses in the county. The continued development of the offensive line will be important. Defensive lineman Jerzy Lighten, edge rusher Idahanh Lazar and linebacker Loobensky LaFortune lead the defense. RaeShaw Pugh will play a big role on offense as a receiver and defense as a defensive back. Lake Wales could be better than last season but with Orlando Jones in the district, the Highlanders have no room for error. They’ll get a good taste of where they stand against elite teams when they playing DeLand in the opening week.
LAKELAND Head Coach: Marvin Frazier (4th year, 38-7, state runner-up). Coaching Staff: Connor Johnson, Kerry Harbin, Jakelin Chapman, Kelvin Broome, Henderson Taylor, Koyal George, Paul Schwada, John Bishop, Dedrick Dodge, Carl White, George Williams, James Niblack, Deaubrey Devine . 2025 Record: 12-3 Key Losses: Malik Morris (LB), Ziggy Riley (LB), Zephaniah Rogers (LB), Jasper Hebel (TE), Jadarious Dobie (RB), Jerry Thomas (WR), Logan Staples (OL) Players to watch: Santana Harvey (DL) Sr, Andrew Sapp (DL) Sr, Kelin Hendrix (QB) Sr, Jordan Young (DB) Sr, Dominick Harris Payne (DB) JR, Deonte Fielder (DB) SR, Ahanarri Cooper (RB) Jr, Steward Butler (RB) Sr, Xavion Mitchell (RB) Sr, Joseph Howard (WR) Sr, Cam Fuse (WR) Jr, Rashard Kelly (WR) Sr, Jaxson Russell (OL) So, Vanshawn Burch (OL) Sr, Aidan Engelbrecht (OL) Sr, Jonathan Lopez (OL) Jr, Charles Calhoun (LB) Sr, Deshawn Smalls (LB) Jr, Donte Mccoy (LB) Jr, Vario Mcbride (LB) Jr, Travoris Black (DB) Sr, Ahmaad Watts (DB) Sr, Kash Johnson (DL) So, Jave Jean Louis (DL) Sr Outlook: After four consecutive trips to the state championship game, anything less will feel like a disappointment. Lakeland has the talent to return for a fifth straight appearance. Quarterback Kelin Hendrix leads the offense with his passing and running. Cam Fuse and Joseph Howard lead the receiving corps, and Ahnnari Cooper leads the backfield with Steward Butler and Kathleen-transfer Xavion Mitchell. The big focus will be the development of the offensive line that will be allow Lakeland to compete against elite teams. The defense took a hit with the loss to injury of Drew Sapp, but Antonio Harvey will lead what should be a stingy defense. Transfers Charles Calhoun, Deshawn Smalls and Vario McBride will be impact players. With teams like Venice, American Heritage and First Academy on the schedule, Lakeland should be tested by the time the playoffs come.
LAKELAND CHRISTIAN Head Coach: Danny Williams (11th years, 77-24). Coaching Staff: Chase Lawson (OC), Cade Lawson (RB), Antwain Adams (WR), Dane Mooney (OL), Kevin Grooms (OL) Railond Garrett (QB), Thomas Berry (DC), John Oneal (DL/STC), Kevin Brandt (LB), Dre Hudson (LB), Amp Stevens (DB), Rich Gutierrez (JR), Jason McCormick (NG), Ben Shipps (Kickers), Jeff Ruiz (Logistics), Cannan Bennett (STC), Jordan Allen (ATC), Josh Plylor. 2025 Record: 8-3. Key Losses: WR DJ Howard, DL AJ Phillips, DL JR Sirmons, OL Will Aqui. Players to watch: QB Brody Brenneman (Sr.), RB AJ Truedell (Sr.), OL Ty MontsDeOca (Sr.), WR Marcus Bankston (Sr.), WR/DB Messiah Borders (Sr.), WR Cael Straub (Sr.), OL Jontrel Washington (Sr.), WR/DB Trey Wall Skill (Sr.), LB Caleb Beck (Sr.), DE Joseph Bustos (Jr.). Outlook: Lakeland Christian will be hard to defend. USF-commit Brody Brenneman will lead a prolific passing attack with receivers Cael Straub, Marcus Langston and Messiah Borders all capable of big plays. AJ Truedell is one of the top running backs in the county, and UCF-commit Ty MontsDeOca leads the offensive line with Jontrel Washington and Eric Rodgers. Caleb Beck, who moves over from Lake Gibson, and Jack Jenkins will make a major impact at linebacker. Returners Joseph Bustos, Blake Calhoun, Jayden Freema and Noah Beale are also key defenders. Lakeland Christian enters the season as the favorite in the district and with a senior-heavy team, will be looking to make a deep playoff run. MCLAUGHLIN Coach: Norris Kennedy (1st year). 2025 Record: 2-8. Key Losses: Mariyon Clarkson, Ronnie Daniels. Outlook: Norris Kennedy was a top lineman in high school and graduated from Lake Wales 25 years ago and signed with Youngstown State. He takes over the second-year program for Ray Grant. MULBERRY Coach: Davis Stephens. Coaching Staff: Bruce Sanders, Key’Andre Smith, John Corbett. 2025 Record: 4-7. Players to Watch: QB Joseph Shannon (So.), DB Josiah Cobbett (Jr., 5-9, 153), TE/DL Tyler Davis (6-1, 210, Sr.) Outlook: Sophomore quarterback Joseph Shannon threw for 609 yards last season and is back to lead the offense. Defensive back Josiah Cobett and defensive end are back on defense.
RIDGE COMMUNITY Head Coach: Ali Cannon (1st year). Coaching Staff: Rod Rutherford Larry Ferguson Jamarcus Learherwood, Odell Gordon Marc FilsAime Julius Elias, Michael Chandler, Manny Elize. 2025 Record: 6-5 (district champion). Key (Player) Losses: Lavonski Tubbs, Javeree James, Jesse Lewis, Stcheve Bonhome, Daniel James, Amire Hall. Players to watch: RB/FS Victor Joesph (So.), OT/DT Jeremiah Joesph (Sr.), WR/FS Elijah Greenidge (Jr.), TE Santana Henderson (So.), S Max-Wayne Samson (Jr.), DE Andrew Joaceus (So.), DB Andre Joaceus (So.), OT Blake Moore (So.), RB/LB Shia Kane (So.), TE Sheldon Kane (Sr.), TE/LB Kazavion Sherman (So.), LB Henry Peterman (Sr.), WR Shykeem Pitts (Jr). Outlook: This is a rebuilding year for Ridge. Ali Cannon takes over for Richard Tate, and the Bolts lost several key players to graduation or transfer. With Victor Joseph and Shia Kane in the backfield, the running game should remain a strength. Elijah Greenbridge takes over at quarterback. Faster linebackers should be a strength on defense.
Santa Fe Catholic Head Coach: Gabriel Walker (3rd year, 15-8). Coaching Staff: Dimitri Lindsay (DC), Dwayne Hewitt (OC), Hentrell Rodman (WR), Joe Faiola (LB), Don Parham (DL). 2025 Record: 9-3. Key Losses: Zyrell Thomas, Bryson Jones . Players to watch: DE Bertran Bates (6-1, 240, Jr.), OL Brody Davis (6-1, 270, Sr.), RB Reagan Korlacki (5-7, 170, Sr.), QB Cam Womack (6-2, 180, Sr.), DB Khavaris White (5-8, 140, So.), DB Jeremiah Dunn (5-8, 140, So.), DB Malaki Gibson (5-10, 140, So.), LB Chase Sherwood (5-10, 180, Sr.), DB Carl Coward (5-10, 150, Sr.), DB Ralph Evans (5-11, 160, Sr.). Outlook: Reagan Korlacki is back at running back and will be the focal point, while Cam Womack takes over at quarterback. While Zyrell Thomas, who was the second-leading rusher and leading receiver, graduated, Drew McGrath and KJ White returns. Defensively, Santa Fe graduated its top two tacklers but Guillermo Mendoza, Joel Mendoza and Bertran Bates return. The Crimson Hawks are back in the FHSAA and will compete in the new Independent division.
TENOROC Head Coach: Anthony Troutman (3rd year, 9-11 at Tenoroc, 17-25 overall record HC). Coaching Staff: Brayun Andrews (OC/WR), Rob Odum (DC/LB), Dion Link (DB), Treven Thompson (DB), Chauncey Clark (DL), Patrick Smith (DL), Brandon Gengler (OL). 2025 Record: 4-7. Key Losses: Jaidon Furman, Deshaun Dunn, Jalon Andrews, Lamarir Poole, Jordan Christian Players to watch: Tayvon Norton (Sr.), Demetrius Jones (Sr.), Zamarion Smith (Sr.), Brexton Chapple (Sr.), Lurreill Euline (Sr.), Jaiden Dun (Sr.), Chris Maxwell (Jr.), Jadarion Manning (Jr.), Jabari Holmes (Jr.). Outlook: Quarterback Brexton Chapple returns with experience. Lurreill Euline will line up at quarterback along with other positions. Demetrius Jones provides great explosiveness, Zamarion Smith great hands and plays multiple positions. Jabari Holmes will replace Jaidon Furman in the backfield. Jaiden Dunn provides stability up front at center. Solidifying the offensive line around Dunn along with dependable depth is biggest challenge. John Koney will provide tremendous value in the kicking game. Tayvon Norton will anchor the defense at the middle linebacker position with leadership, ability and experience. Overall the secondary should be an excellent unit. Euline and Zamarion Smith at safety will give stability. Josiah Ware and Ulysses Jones are young cornerbacks with potential. The defensive line is a concern. Although Chris Maxwell provides great explosiveness and stability at defensive end and Jaiden Dunn will solidify one of the interior DT spots, finding consistency at the other two spots and depth will be the biggest defensive challenge. Challenging for a district title could be a reasonable goal this season.
Victory Christian Head Coach: Brett Smith (2nd year, 5-6). Coaching Staff: Chris Griffin (Co-DC) Dustin Cherry (OC). 2025 Record: 5-6. Key Losses: WR Tucker Fox, DB Don’Arion Johnson, RB Preston Coney. Players to watch: QB Cru Slocum (6-2, 185, Sr.), WR Drew Morrison (6-3, 190, Sr.), WR Don’Mari “Bruce” Earby (5-10, 190, Jr.), OL Isaiah Harper (6-5, 275, Jr.), DL Josh “Peezy” Powell (6-0, 290, Sr.), LB Keion Hargrove (5-11, 220, Sr.), LB Reese Nunez (6-1, 220, Jr.), DB Xavies Martin (5-10, 175, So), DB Ian McCarty (5-10, 175, Jr.). Outlook: The quarterback-wide receiver combo of Cru Slocum and Andrew Morrison return with Don’Mari Earby (Jr) and a bevy of other wide receivers who will be competing for playing time Jayce Peterson, TK Strong, Taylor Jones, Mykel Kinchen, Cayson Walsh, Jaxson Roberti are all in the mix with others. The RB room is a combination of Xavies Martin (So.) Israel Beard (Jr.) and Bricen Philemond (Sr.). The offensive line return three starters Isaiah Harper (Jr.) Ian Gibson (So.) Drew Gray (So.) and a lot of depth with 4-5 players competing for the other two positions. Returning inside linebackers Keion Hargrove (Sr.) and Reese Nunez (Jr.) will lead the defense. Both have college potential. The addition of outside linebacker Evan Burdette has strengthened an already good run defense that held almost every team in check. The defensive line is anchored by nose guard Josh “Peezy” Powell (Sr.) Edge rusher Braylon Mitchell (6-4, 215) is a tremendous athlete with a lot of upside. Multiple other players have been in the rotation at the remaining defensive line spots, including Davy Gray and Oliver Patterson. Martin and Ian McCarty (Jr.) return in the secondary. Ryder Hedgren has emerged as the front runner at free safety, and Alex Acevado is in line to start at SS. Victory Christian looks to be improved and will battle LCS for the district title.
WINTER HAVEN Head Coach: Corey Boatman (1st Year). Coaching Staff: Sean Matias (OC/QB/WR), Chris Rollins (OL), Jehlan Ramsey Sr. (RB), Darrick White (DL), Brian Davis (LB), Adam Minggia II (DB), Hasani Harper (DFO). 2025 Record: 6-5 Overall (2-1 District) Key (Player) Losses: QB Michael Kearney III (New Mexico Highlands), K Layton Kemp, DE/TE Michael Gaskins, LB Vario McBride, ATH Matwain Bryant, LB Deshaun Smalls. Players to Watch: EDGE/LB Jordan Phillips (Jr.), RB Tyberius O’Neil (Sr.), CB Jaylen Jordan (Jr.), WR/LB Christian Pringle (Sr.), QB/ATH Kamari Threatt (Sr.), OT Josiah Branco (Jr.), OT Skye Watson (So.), C/OG Landon Simmons (Jr.) Outlook: The offense looks to capitalize off of its ability to be multiple and the ability to change the pace of the game and win formational battles. The Blue Devils hope to get off to a fast start in the running game, led by Tyberius O’Neil. Kamari Threatt and Christian Pringle are the other top skilled position players. Landon Simmons, Skye Watson, and Josiah Branco look to lead the group upfront. The defense is returning several starters who held opponents to 16 ppg, scored 46 points and had 29 takeaways. Key returners are Jordan Phillips, Ja’Derrick Jones, Anthony Miller, Demetrius Walls Jr., Christian Pringle, Khamari Campbell, Jaylen Jordan, Nesiah Chadwick, Lorenzo Jones, Chris Shakir, David Parker Jr., Jimmie Nealy Gunner Needham, and Kaden Sakyiama. The Blue Devils did lose several key players to transfer, and head coach Carl White stepped down two weeks before fall practice began, but Winter Haven still should be in contention for a district title. This article originally appeared on The Ledger: 2026 Polk County high school football players to watch, team outlooks
