Highest-Rated: 2027 OL Ismael Camara (6’6, 340) - Gilmer

The Texas Longhorns commit and No. 5 overall prospect in the state racked up 170 pancake blocks in his varsity debut as a junior in East Texas. Now he's back looking for more after a dominant offseason that included an impressive performance on the national stage at the Polynesian Bowl. Camara is expected to see snaps on both sides of the ball for the Buckeyes, but at the next level he projects as a dominant offensive lineman with the versatility to play either tackle or guard.

Top Underclassman: 2028 OLB Ke’drid Smith (6’2, 215) - Texarkana Pleasant Grove

A versatile defender who can play with his hand in the dirt or stand up on the edge, Smith projects as a disruptive pass rusher with a knack for shedding blocks and finding the football. His well-rounded skill set earned him District 7-4A Division II Defensive Lineman of the Year honors as a sophomore and has helped him amass a double-digit list of offers from Baylor, Houston, SMU, TCU, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Notre Dame and more.

Breakout Candidate: ATH JD Edwards (5’9, 150) - Carthage

The Bulldogs are once again a favorite to win the 4A DII state title, but they enter the season with more question marks than usual, especially on offense, where their starting quarterback, top wide receiver and leading running back have all moved on to the college ranks. The Edwards name will be familiar to TXHSFB fans, as JD is the younger brother of Texas A&M and record-setting Carthage running back KJ Edwards. JD could factor in at multiple positions, but carrying the football is in his blood.

5 More Names to Know:

• 2028 ATH Kipton Neighbors - Gilmer
• 2027 LB Rome Ewell - Springtown
• 2029 RB Brayden Henderson - Jarrell
• 2029 ATH Shamar Nichols - Somerset
• 2028 DL Luke Baysinger - Texarkana Pleasant Grove