Exciting Weekend Ahead for High School Football Fans
This weekend, high school football stadiums across the country are buzzing with excitement as they prepare for the start of the 2024 season. Fans can watch the ESPN High School Football Kickoff from Thursday to Sunday, featuring some of the nation’s top football prospects. This four-day event will showcase five games across ESPN and ESPN2, offering an early look at potential future stars of college football.
In total, over two dozen recruits ranked in the 2025 and 2026 ESPN 300 classes will be playing. About 30 power conference programs are represented, with at least one committed prospect from each. One player to keep an eye on is Grayson DE Andre Fuller, a Georgia Tech commit and three-star recruit. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 225 pounds, Fuller had a strong season last year with eight sacks, and he showed he can play tough against his blockers. Georgia Tech may have struck gold with this commitment.
Another standout is Thompson DE Jared Smith, who is ranked 28th in the ESPN 300 and committed to Auburn. At 6-foot-6, Smith boasts elite length and explosive speed, making him a formidable pass rusher. He transferred to Thompson last year and is expected to shine this season with a full offseason under his belt.
Also noteworthy is Grayson OLB Tyler Atkinson, ranked 11th in the ESPN Junior 300 for the class of 2026. Atkinson made a significant impact last season, racking up nearly 200 tackles. He’s a versatile player capable of handling multiple roles on the field, making him a prime target for elite programs like Georgia and Clemson.
Other key prospects include Milton WR C.J. Wiley, a Florida State commit, who impressed with over 1,400 receiving yards last season, and American Heritage RB Byron Louis, who ran for 1,000 yards and is an outstanding athlete capable of big plays. As these young stars take the field, fans can expect a thrilling weekend of high school football that highlights the future of the sport.
Make sure to tune in for the games on ESPN and see these athletes showcase their talents as they aim for a successful season ahead!
