Emerging Mississippi High School Football Talent to Watch in 2026

Jackson, MS – As National Signing Day for 2025 comes to a close, the spotlight is shifting to the next wave of football talent from Mississippi’s high schools, particularly from the class of 2026. With the new football season on the horizon, many young athletes are already making names for themselves. Here’s a look at some of the standout recruits currently drawing attention across the state.

Dereon Albert, a defensive lineman from Jackson Academy, has been ranked as a three-star recruit and holds the title of the No. 13 recruit in Mississippi. His impressive stats include 85 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, and nine sacks last season, showcasing his readiness for the next level.

Another noteworthy prospect is Preston Ashley from Brandon. As a four-star recruit, he is currently ranked as the No. 7 recruit in Mississippi and the No. 12 safety in the country. Ashley put up 68 tackles, including three for loss, one interception, and five pass deflections, proving himself as a key player in the defensive lineup.

Offensively, Jaeden Hill from Tupelo is turning heads as well. Committed to Mississippi State, Hill rushed for 2,272 yards, caught 257 receiving yards, and scored a whopping 35 touchdowns, leading Tupelo to an MHSAA Class 7A state championship. His performance earned him the title of Class 7A Mr. Football.

Tristen Keys, the highly-ranked five-star receiver from Hattiesburg, also catches attention. With 1,275 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns on 58 receptions, he is the top-rated recruit in Mississippi. His height and skill set make him a player to watch closely.

In addition to them, other recruits like Zayion Cotton (a wide receiver from Grenada) and Tylen Mathews (a defensive back from Lake Cormorant) are making strong impressions with their captivating plays and consistent performances on the field.

As the 2023 football season progresses, it will be interesting to see how these young prospects develop and which colleges might secure their commitments in the future. With talent oozing from the state, Mississippi is poised to send even more stellar athletes to the next level.