The wait for the high school football season is finally over, as teams begin playing games this week.
Across the LA Daily News area — in the San Fernando Valley, Ventura County, Santa Clarita, and Lancaster and Palmdale — there will be 74 teams playing at the 11-man and 8-man levels.
The Daily News has put together a preseason list of the Top 100 players — plus a few extra.
It’s time to find out who made the list …
TOP 100 PLAYERS
1. Myles Baker, Sierra Canyon, safety, senior
Baker is the physical tone-setter and captain for Sierra Canyon. The four-star recruit dominated offenses as a stalwart in the backfield and intercepted two passes and forced a fumble last season. Baker brought his speed and aggression as well, with 30 tackles, including 10 tackles for loss. At 6-foot-2 and 195 pounds, he brings a strength and versatility that allowed him to be one of the most highly-sought recruits in the country. Baker is committed to UCLA.
2. Charles Davis III, Westlake, wide receiver, senior
Davis can’t be contained. He’s too big and too physical as a four-star recruit at 6-foot-6 and 200 pounds. He gets separation off his first step and once the ball is in his hands, best of luck trying to bring down a player with wide receiver speed and tight end strength. He carries a relentless motor as well and takes on the role as a downfield blocker. Elite hands, strong, and a schematic nightmare for defensive coordinators.
3. Kasi Currie, Sierra Canyon, defensive line, senior
The defensive line causes problems for teams facing Sierra Canyon, which has built a powerhouse in Chatsworth. The head of that ferocious pass rush is Currie, who is committed to Texas. Currie was credited with 15 tackles, including four tackles for loss. His contributions were felt in all the double teams he drew that allowed his teammates to fill gaps and make tackles in the backfield. The 6-foot-4, 320-pound Currie is the No. 2-ranked defensive lineman in the country by 24/7 Sports.
4. Jackson Hill, Chaminade, offensive line, senior
Hill is a three-star college recruit who is committed to Notre Dame. Hill stands 6-foot-7 and brings the complete package as an offensive guard. Chaminade averaged 338.7 yards per game last season and will lean on Hill’s leadership to continue its dominance at the line of scrimmage.
5. Alifeleti Tuihalamaka, Oaks Christian, defensive line, senior
Tuihalamaka wants to be among the next generation of quality pass rushers. He is versatile and has success playing the edge and tackle. He rips his arm through and wins with technique, not to mention his frame of 6-foot-5 and 260 pounds. Tuihalamaka made 86 tackles, including 13.5 TFLs, eight sacks, two pass deflections and one forced fumble in 2025. Tuihalamaka is committed to USC.
6. Duvay Williams, Sierra Canyon, cornerback, senior
Sierra Canyon is the third high school for Williams who previously played at Serra of Gardena and transferred to Inglewood before joining Sierra Canyon. Williams is a four-star recruit committed to Cal as a two-way player (receiver and defensive back). He had three interceptions, forced a fumble and had five pass deflections a year ago. With Sierra Canyon’s depth in the backfield, the room for error tightens for offenses.
7. Demare Dezeurn, Westlake, wide receiver, senior
Dezeurn is a four-star recruit who is now committed to Cal after previously being committed to Oklahoma. An outstanding playmaker at 5-foot-10, he and Charles Davis will form one of the most formidable receiving duos in the country.
8. Marcus Fakatou, Sierra Canyon, defensive line, senior
Fakatou, a transfer from Orange Lutheran, adds to the already monstrous front four for Sierra Canyon. He’s strong enough to play the trenches at tackle but is better suited on the outside as a defensive end. He can also play in pass coverage. Fakatou is committed to Ohio State. He made 28 tackles, 10 TFLs, and five sacks last season. Now he will be paired with Currie and the collective potency of Sierra Canyon. Fakatou is the No. 3-ranked defensive lineman in the country by 24/7 Sports.
9. Kingston Celifie, Calabasas, wide receiver, senior
Celifie, a four-star recruit, is committed to UCLA. He was a breakout star in 2025, when he caught 56 passes for 827 yards and nine touchdowns. Celifie runs the 100 meters in under 11 seconds. Celifie had two 100-yard receiving games, including a seven-reception, 135-yard performance against Birmingham.
10. Micah Hannah, Simi Valley, cornerback, junior
Hannah raised his stock with three interceptions last season and became one of the top cornerbacks in the country. Hannah carries all the physical gifts at 6-foot-2 and has improved his strength and quickness. He will make Simi Valley one of the top programs to watch in 2026. Hannah holds offers from numerous colleges, including Notre Dame, UCLA, Cal, Florida, Washington, Miami, North Carolina and Texas A&M.
11. Jaxsen Stokes, Sierra Canyon, running back, senior
Stokes had an impressive junior campaign where he averaged 80.2 yards per game and had 12 rushing touchdowns. He also had 12 receptions for 155 yards and two touchdowns. He changed his college commitment from Oklahoma to Cal in April. His combination of strength, shiftiness and ability to catch the football is constant, but Stokes’ ultimate X-factor is the ability to block and handle blitz pressure.
12. Emmanuel Pullins, Notre Dame, wide receiver, junior
There is a huge upside to this talented 2028 class of players, led by Pullins. The four-star recruit holds several offers, including from Washington, Cal, Oregon State, Kansas, Arizona and Arizona State. He runs the 100 meters in 10.4 seconds, and caught 38 passes for 569 yards and two touchdowns. He stars on the track team at Notre Dame and could be a dual-sport athlete in college.
13. Chase Curren, Crespi, quarterback, junior
Curren lets the ball loose with high accuracy and minimal mistakes. He carries poise in the pocket as he unleashes deep passes downfield despite incoming pressure. Curren led Crespi to a 10-1 season in 2025 as he completed 159 of 238 passes for 2,148 yards, 31 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He also rushed for 247 yards and seven touchdowns. At 6-foot-2, Curren possesses the athletic build that top Division I college programs are looking for as well. The combination of grit and touch has led to Curren receiving offers from Miami, Florida State, Cal, Oregon State, Washington, Arizona, Purdue and Syracuse.
14. Cooper Cook, Sierra Canyon, defensive lineman, senior
Sierra Canyon is expected to dominate this fall in both flag football and tackle football. And it’s Cook who brings the authority and power, having transferred (from Tustin) with his sister Makena, who starred in flag football at Mater Dei. Cook is committed to UNLV. He totaled 37 tackles, including nine tackles for loss and four sacks in 2025.
15. Bryson Kennedy, Oak Park, quarterback, sophomore
Kennedy is the latest transfer addition at Oak Park. The four-star recruit was set to start at Texas powerhouse Duncanville before being ruled ineligible, according to a report from the Dallas Morning News. Now he’s emerged at Oak Park, where he’s expected to become the team’s starter. At 6-foot-3 and 225 pounds, Kennedy possesses elite arm strength and accuracy, and those abilities have college scouts enamored with his potential. His abilities from the pocket and pure arm strength are what allow Kennedy to carry multiple Division I offers, including from Michigan, Florida, Miami and Ole Miss.
16. Caysen Badawi, Valencia, safety, senior
Badawi is committed to San Diego State after battling injuries and playing in just four games last season. He was productive in those games and amassed four interceptions and 11 tackles in limited action.
17. Apisai Fifita, Oaks Christian, offensive line, junior
Fifita, a transfer from St. Francis, carries all the tools and physical attributes to one day play elite college football and perhaps reach the NFL. Fifita is a mountainous figure at 6-foot-6 and carries 18 NCAA Division I offers, most notably from Texas, Notre Dame, Miami, Texas A&M and UCLA. Fifita has elite footwork and quick hands.
18. Sir Homer King Webb, Sierra Canyon, wide receiver, junior
The 6-foot-1 Webb is a two-way player who has left his imprint as an outside linebacker and wide receiver. His hands are elite, and he brings next-level athleticism. He had 22 receptions for 443 yards and two touchdowns a year ago. Webb carries offers from Ole Miss, Oregon State, New Mexico and Sacramento State.
19. Matix Frithsmith, Hart, running back, senior
The words freight train and Frithsmith are synonymous for one of the most physical backs in the state. He runs through tackles much harder than his 6-foot and 185-pound frame would indicate possible. He is the complete package. He has the patience to find holes and can catch the ball from the backfield. Frithsmith rushed for 1,303 yards and averaged 8 yards per carry in 2025. He also had 82 receptions for 1,090 yards and 25 combined touchdowns. If that wasn’t enough, he also completed two passes for 56 yards. Frithsmith holds offers from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon, and the University of Puget Sound.
20. Kingston Williams, Chaminade, defensive line, senior
The collective improvement from Chaminade in 2025 was anchored by the growth of Williams. He took charge of the team’s defense and became one of the top run stoppers in the area. His 45 tackles, including 12 TFLs and four sacks, were huge as Chaminade went from 3-7 in 2024 to 5-6 last season, including 3-2 in Mission League. Williams is committed to UNLV.
21. Faruq Muhammad, Sierra Canyon, safety, senior
Muhammad finishes off the defensive back triumvirate for Sierra Canyon after making 55 tackles, including 6.5 tackles for loss and four sacks last year. He uses his elite instincts to read quarterbacks and adjust pre-snap. Muhammad holds multiple Division I offers, including from Miami, Wake Forest, Arizona and Arizona State.
22. Bryan Granger-Narcisse, Chaminade, safety, senior
Granger-Narcisse made 44 tackles last season and was a difference maker for a Chaminade team that finished 5-6 overall (3-2 in the Mission League) despite numerous injuries. Granger-Narcisse holds offers from Oregon State, Air Force, Cornell, Lehigh, University of Mexico and Nevada.
23. Deshawn Laporte, Quartz Hill, quarterback, senior
Laporte’s playmaking ability is exceptional. The transfer from Burbank will be a huge addition for Quartz Hill. His ability to scramble, keep his eyes downfield and make accurate throws helped Burbank finish 9-3 last season. Laporte completed 223 of 331 passes for 3,900 yards, 51 touchdowns and six interceptions. Laporte’s playing style is elusive and quick. His improvisation skills make for entertaining football. Laporte is committed to Delaware State.
24. Lance Ciechanowski, Sierra Canyon, offensive line, junior
He has a massive frame and is proven in the trenches. The four-star recruit is 6-foot-5 and 290 pounds. Ciechanowski carries offers from Texas, UCLA, Arizona State, Minnesota, Kansas, Cal, Colorado State and Sacramento State.
25. Dylan Northcutt, Notre Dame, cornerback, senior
Northcutt is committed to Syracuse and is one of the top-rated man-to-man corners in the country. He deflected six passes last year and produced 33 tackles with a sack. Northcutt jams receivers, redirects routes and has elite hip movement as well.
26. Ford Green, Westlake, quarterback, sophomore
Green stepped up and proved he could do more than simply take snaps and make simple passes during his freshman campaign. Green became a problem for defenses, being able to sling the ball into the open field from the pocket and displaying leadership beyond his years while Westlake finished the regular season undefeated before a heartbreaking loss in the CIF Southern Section Division 3 first round to Villa Park 28-24. Green completed 157 of 231 passes for 2,195 yards, 31 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. Green is being offered by Michigan, Ohio State, Florida State, and UConn.
27. Stephan Harrison, Sierra Canyon, defensive line, sophomore
Harrison is next in line coming through to become one of the top players in the class of 2029. He carries all the physicality and speed the top programs in the country want. He is listed at 6-foot-3 and can already squat 500 pounds as a 15-year-old. He hasn’t played a full season yet and already carries offers from Alabama, Georgia, LSU, USC, Texas, Miami, Oregon, Cal, Arizona, and Arizona State, just to name a few. Did we mention how scary Sierra Canyon’s front four will be? If that’s not bad enough, Harrison can play tight end as well and could very well be one of the top two-way players produced out of the San Fernando Valley.
28. Kyle Fulton Jr., Paraclete, running back, senior
Fulton’s physicality and speed at 5-foot-11 contributed to an offense that averaged 411 yards per game. Paraclete finished 9-3 in 2025 with Fulton rushing for 1,249 yards and 6.1 yards per carry. Fulton also caught 23 receptions for 241 yards and one touchdown. He currently holds an offer from UNLV.
29. Braydenn Mercer, Sierra Canyon, offensive line, senior
Mercer is a physical three-star interior lineman who is 6-foot-5 and 290 pounds and committed to UNLV. He makes proper hand adjustments to get inside and drive defenders. Another key piece in arguably the deepest team assembled at Sierra Canyon.
30. Hunter Bryant, Sierra Canyon, offensive line, sophomore
Bryant could become one of the greatest blockers to come out of the San Fernando Valley. He stands at 6-foot-6 and 285 pounds, but it’s his movement, footwork, and technique that make him stand out. His fundamentals and hand placement are his strongest suits, and the best schools in the country are taking notice.
31. Noel Washington, Notre Dame, running back, junior
Washington rushed for 732 yards as a sophomore and returns to Notre Dame a step quicker and a more patient ball carrier. Washington holds 15 Division I offers, including from Washington, Nebraska, Cal, Kansas, and Arizona.
32. Brayden Tautolo, Sierra Canyon, defensive line, senior
The star-studded package of Sierra Canyon football ends with Tautolo, the fifth player from this list. Tautolo made 14 tackles, including four for loss, while also seeing time as a tight end and making 11 catches for 79 yards and two touchdowns. He carries multiple Division I offers, including from Wyoming, UNLV, and Nevada.
33. Elijah Williams, Chaminade, cornerback, senior
Williams, at 5-foot-11, knows how to flow and react with whatever the offense presents. He doesn’t bite on a receiver’s first move and makes open-field tackles at an elite level. Williams made 34 tackles, including seven pass deflections. He is committed to Northern Arizona.
34. Julian Bibby, Alemany, offensive line, junior
Bibby enters the 2026 season as one of the top-ranked centers in the state. Bibby possesses a strong, timely kick-step and can handle the pressures as a pass blocker despite being listed at 6 feet tall, which is considered small for the position. Colleges are taking notice, with Bibby holding offers from Old Dominion, Southern Miss, and Toledo.
35. Tahj Skinner, Notre Dame, ATH, senior
Skinner is one of only a handful of quarterbacks that will be playing on the defensive side of the ball. Elusive, fast, and proven, look for Skinner to push the tempo offensively for the Knights. His eyes are elite and provide coverage on a team full of quality athletes. Skinner is committed to UC Davis.
36. Donald Penn III, Calabasas, offensive line, senior
Penn comes from an NFL bloodline, with his father, Donald Penn, having an impressive 13-year career and being voted to the Pro Bowl three times despite being undrafted out of Utah State in 2006. Now it’s time for the new generation, with the younger Penn holding offers from UNLV, Nevada, Sacramento State, and Colorado State.
37. Andrew Cordero, Chaminade, wide receiver, senior
Cordero ran a 40-yard dash clocked in 4.63 seconds and will be relied upon heavily as the Eagles’ top target. Cordero caught 35 receptions for 539 yards and a touchdown while carrying offers from San Diego State, UNLV, and Columbia.
38. Jaxon Sharp, Sierra Canyon, wide receiver, junior
Sharp bolsters the talent depth of Sierra Canyon after he reeled in 24 receptions for 372 yards and three touchdowns last season for Oaks Christian. Sharp, a three-star recruit at 6-foot and 160 pounds, will be a handful alongside Webb. Sharp carries offers from Cal, North Carolina, Syracuse, Georgia State, Idaho State, Colorado State and Florida Atlantic.
39. Jake Tweten, Westlake, safety, senior
A hard-nosed football player all the way around. Tweten stands at 5-foot-11 and is the heartbeat of Westlake. He amassed 35 tackles, three interceptions, three pass deflections, and a forced fumble.
40. DeMarco Hernandez, Sierra Canyon, quarterback, senior
The battle to become Laird Finkle’s successor is between Hernandez and Patterson. Both players split the ticket in this ranking as the competition to see who starts Week 0 against Sierra Catholic heats up during summer practices.
41. Paul Turner, Birmingham, wide receiver, senior
Turner was selected as an LA Daily News honorable mention after he caught 30 passes for 734 yards and eight touchdowns. Crafty route runner Turner has become a mature leader who will start along with underclassmen quarterbacks junior Daniel Kakooza and freshman Exavier Johnson Jr.
42. Darrien Johnson, Newbury Park, ATH, junior
Johnson was a versatile player for Newbury Park in 2026. He threw passes including a touchdown, averaged 5.8 yards per carry and combined for nine touchdowns (eight rushing, one receiving). A proven leader.
43. Nate Chandler, Birmingham, cornerback, sophomore
The 5-foot-6 height seen at first by Chandler turns from a supposed weakness into a trap that lures opposing offenses. Chandler made huge gains, starting as a freshman cornerback who amassed seven pass deflections and one interception. Chandler has grown stronger and become a better leader for a Patriots team that could win the CIF LA City Section Open Division title in 2026.
44. Malcolm Allen, Notre Dame, lineman, junior
Allen, at 6-foot-3 and 309, has proven skills as a pass blocker and in affecting the run game at nose tackle.
45. Braylen Morgan, Birmingham, running back, senior
Morgan maximized his opportunities and averaged 7.6 yards per carry for 736 yards and 14 touchdowns. Morgan guided Birmingham to a 5-0 record in the West Valley League. Don’t give Morgan space or else he’ll find the end zone. He has downhill speed and is quick and elusive.
46. Marquis Jones, Chaminade, running back, senior
More to come from Jones, who was the team’s leading rusher and averaged 6.7 yards per carry in 2025. A quality back at 5-foot-9, he can break through tackles and carries breakaway speed. Expect the Division I offers to pick up by mid-fall.
47. Nevada Ford, Oak Park, running back, senior
Ford displayed versatility and scored 10 touchdowns (five rushing, five receiving), ran for 675 yards and averaged 6.2 yards per carry in 2025. He’s quick, has good hands, and is a quality blocker against the blitz at 5-foot-8 and 160 pounds.
48. Kemir Smith, Quartz Hill, running back, junior
Smith had a strong sophomore campaign and averaged 6.6 yards per carry and scored 10 touchdowns. Smith is one of the top class of 2028 recruits in California. Look for Smith to get more involved in the passing game for the Royals.
49. Will Brockermeyer, Notre Dame, offensive line, senior
Brockermeyer leads an improved offensive line that battled injuries in 2025. He stands at 6-foot-3 and 260 pounds. Technique, muscle, character, and everything that makes a blocker successful.
50. Tabary McKnight, Alemany, running back, junior
McKnight was a bright spot for Alemany, which struggled to a 1-9 record and used three different quarterbacks in 2025. McKnight averaged 6.5 yards per carry and scored three touchdowns. McKnight will get plenty of opportunities to stand out under first-year head coach and former Birmingham star Dennis Keyes.
51. Aidan Dagher, Burbank, linebacker, senior
Dagher is ferocious off the blitz. He is fast off the snap and gets through blocks to make tackles in the backfield. Dagher’s pursuit of the football was key in making 112 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks, and nine quarterback hurries. Dagher holds offers from Louisville, Southern Methodist, Colorado State, Sacramento State, Campbell and Western Kentucky.
52. Royel McFarlane, Crespi, running back, junior
McFarlane has been a mainstay in Crespi’s offense since his freshman year. Now, the opportunity to expand his touches comes after he rushed for 406 yards, four touchdowns, and averaged 5.5 yards per carry. Physical in the trenches, McFarlane brings an edge that should continue to make Crespi physically imposing.
53. Mason Maddox, St. Francis, wide receiver, senior
Maddox is committed to Princeton after starring as one of the most complete wide receivers in the state. Maddox made 34 receptions for 575 yards and six touchdowns, and at 6-foot-2 is the man targeted and scouted against by defensive coordinators.
54. Josiah Rand, Chaminade, linebacker, senior
Elite speed and a nose for the football, Rand tied for the team lead with 50 tackles for Chaminade, had two pass deflections, and forced a fumble. Rand’s speed stands out and allows him to play both middle linebacker and sometimes drop back in coverage to play safety. Rand is committed to Washington State.
55. Landon Lattimore, Saugus, wide receiver, senior
Lattimore will walk into the 2026 season with an already legendary career. He is Saugus’ all-time leader in receptions (140), receiving yards (2,217), and touchdown catches (28), and he is the heartbeat of his program. Now he’ll have a chance to be untouchable after a 10-3 finish and a stunning overtime win, 28-27, in the CIF Southern Section Division 7 quarterfinals.
56. Tyler Hudson, Burbank, wide receiver, senior
Physical, aggressive, and makes winning plays, Hudson became a quiet sensation on the east end of the San Fernando Valley, starring at Burbank. Hudson finished 2025 with 88 receptions and ranked 16th in the state with 1,375 yards and 17 touchdowns. Division I programs like his ability to make an impact catching passes and the way he brings a tough edge on offense. Hudson holds offers from Hawaii, Sacramento State, Colorado State, and Western Kentucky.
57. Harlem Bullock, Crespi, wide receiver, sophomore
Bullock displayed his immense potential as a 6-foot-2 target on the outside. He tied for Crespi’s team lead with seven touchdown receptions and finished with 31 catches for 431 yards. Bullock holds reported offers from Kentucky, Syracuse, Colorado State, and San Diego State.
58. Eli Zamorano, Sierra Canyon, linebacker, sophomore
Zamorano is a rising sophomore who is considered among the top recruits in the 2029 class. And he comes from an elite pedigree as well, with his father Tony being a CIF All-City linebacker in 1994. Zamorano is 5-foot-11 and carries multiple offers, including from UCLA.
59. George Hastings, Agoura, linebacker, senior
Hastings has proven time and again why he’s among the top players in the state. He finishes tackles and brings a grit and toughness that will have Agoura charging in an upward direction in 2026. Hastings made 130 tackles, intercepted a pass, and had four pass deflections with one forced fumble. He impacts the short passing game, and his efforts in 2025 made him a prospect colleges discovered. Hastings holds offers from Johns Hopkins and Tufts. If his game intelligence wasn’t impressive enough, his academic achievements are noteworthy as well. Hastings scored a 1520 on the SAT.
60. Pablo Granados, Birmingham, offensive line, senior
Granados’ name doesn’t have a star attached to it. But that doesn’t mean Division 1 offers won’t loom for this broad-shouldered captain of Birmingham, listed at 6-foot-5 and 280 pounds. Granados dictates the intensity for the Patriots, who return much of their 2025 starting offense.
61. Will Gelt, Agoura, defensive line, senior
Gelt dominated the Channel League and cracked running backs and receivers with 53 tackles and secured 11 sacks during his junior campaign. He was a workhorse and hardly missed a snap, playing both sides of the ball. Gelt carries the size Division I programs look for at 6-foot-3 and 240 pounds. Whether it’s his work as a blocker or pass rusher, there’s a program out there waiting to take Gelt. He currently holds an offer from the University of San Diego.
62. Elijah Ham, Saugus, defensive line, senior
Ham became one of the top pass rushers around Santa Clarita after totaling 49 tackles, including 2.5 sacks, and was voted to the All-Foothill League team. Another year of football under his belt at 6-foot-2 and 220 pounds, Ham will be a difference-maker for Saugus.
63. Hayden Kennington, Oaks Christian, linebacker, senior
Kennington displayed leadership for Oaks Christian, which finished 6-7 and 3-2 during Marmonte League play. Kennington made 73 tackles, including one tackle for loss, with two fumble recoveries and a forced fumble. He is 5-foot-9 and brings an edge and toughness to an already strong defense that will hit the quarterback plenty in 2026.
64. Tyler Stromsoe, Newbury Park, linebacker and running back, senior
Stromsoe displayed tremendous versatility in 2025 and collected 572 rushing yards with three touchdowns last season along with nine receptions.
65. Shane Anderson, Viewpoint, cornerback, senior
Anderson had eight interceptions last season. At 6 feet tall, Anderson carries that rare ability to see angles and make sure his body and hands are in the right position. He doesn’t drop many interception opportunities, as evidenced by his outstanding 2025 season. Expect an encore. Anderson has offers from Dartmouth, Wyoming, and Hawaii.
66. Chris Colon, Notre Dame, lineman, senior
Colon knows how to prove his feet and underbody despite being slightly undersized at the line of scrimmage. He is 6 feet even and moves his feet well.
67. Kris Carranza, Agoura, quarterback, junior
Carranza is an elite dual-threat at 6-foot-1 and 190 pounds. Carranza can survey the field but carries the ability to pick and choose when to run and when to sling the football. A transfer from Sierra Canyon, Carranza hopes he can be the difference for Agoura, which finished 10-3 but graduated last season’s senior starter, Gavin Gray (222 of 342, 3,520 yards, 45 touchdowns and 12 interceptions). Carranza holds offers from Arizona and Syracuse.
68. Jeremy Mellalieu, Chaminade, quarterback, sophomore
Strong arm and has developed in the film room, and is ready to prove he’s one of the best arms in the state after former Chaminade starter Cameron Pooley transferred to Mater Dei.
69. Ben Burkin, Viewpoint, running back, senior
Burkin showed why he’s one of the best two-way players in Southern California. Burkin averaged 7 yards per carry and scored six touchdowns along with reeling in six interceptions as a defensive back. With quick feet, high IQ, and patience, Burkin carries a modesty that endears him to his teammates and coaches. He’s a leader who will look to guide Viewpoint after an 8-4 season.
70. Mica Weaver, Notre Dame, wide receiver, junior
Weaver is set to have a breakout year as a 6-foot-3 wide receiver who ran 10.9 seconds in the 100 meters during the 2026 track and field season. Notre Dame won’t be lacking speed in 2026, safe to say. His older brother Luke plays at USC.
71. Ivan Gonzalez, Birmingham, linebacker, senior
Gonzalez was an elite pursuer of the football in 2026 for Birmingham. Gonzalez generated 72 tackles, including four for loss, and became an anchor of a defense that held opponents to under 10 points on four separate occasions last season.
72. Gary Ferguson, Oak Park, wide receiver, senior
Ferguson came to Oak Park and is switching positions from quarterback to receiver. He has the athleticism for it at 6-foot-1 and an elite-level quarterback in Kennedy.
73. Ian Patterson, Sierra Canyon, quarterback, sophomore
Patterson is a left-handed dual threat with refined touch. Sierra Canyon’s offense will be lethal no matter who takes snaps with Sir Homer King Webb and Jaxon Sharp at wide receiver spots.
74. Darryl Jones, Crespi, linebacker, junior
Jones made his impact felt as a pass rusher and used his size at 5-foot-9 to his advantage. Jones’ tackling fundamentals are elite. He attacks the hips, drives his arms, and chops his feet to force ball carriers backwards. Jones has proven he can play at a high level after he racked up 63 tackles, including five tackles for loss and three sacks last season.
75. Justin Simon, Valencia, linebacker, junior
Simon patrolled the short field and laid down key tackles for Valencia in 2025. His impressive 6-foot-2 length, combined with his speed and footwork, allowed the Vikings to go 9-2 last season and win the always difficult Foothill League. Simon looks to build on his sophomore success that included 25 tackles.
76. Dominik Hardy, Calabasas, quarterback, senior
Hardy proved to be a solid presence in the pocket and broke down defenses with his arm and legs. He completed 195 of 308 passes for 2,253 yards, 23 touchdowns, and zero interceptions. Calabasas is armed with quality skill players across the field with a veteran arm in Hardy at hand.
77. Grayer Giuliani-Gibbons, Grace, linebacker, senior
Giuliani had a breakout junior year where he delivered 130 tackles, forced two fumbles, and had 3.5 tackles for loss. Grace is looking to get another big season out of Giuliani-Gibbons after the program bounced back from its post-COVID era blues to go 11-4 and capture the Citrus Coast title last season.
78. Niko Bladow, Oaks Christian, quarterback, sophomore
Bladow showed he could manage games and improve in what became a surprisingly down year for Oaks Christian. Bladow completed 100 of 198 passes for 1,060 yards, seven touchdowns, and 11 interceptions and will look to grow after a summer of offseason work.
79. Michael Toner, Hart, defensive back, senior
Toner covered the backfield well with six interceptions in 2025. At 6 feet tall, Toner is the quiet leader of Hart’s defense that forced turnovers and wreaked havoc.
80. Arman Papazyan, Glendale, running back, junior
Papazyan was a 1,000-yard rusher a year ago and has put on 40 pounds of muscle. And the results show. While being overmatched by Santa Fe, Papazyan still rushed for 223 yards on 30 carries. Soft-spoken, Papazyan lets his play do the talking. The 5-foot-7 should start receiving college offers.
81. Ellis Robinson, Harvard-Westlake, ATH, senior
Robinson is a 3-year starter at varsity who led the Wolverines in touchdown receptions two seasons ago. Harvard-Westlake looks to be revitalized under second-year coach Dameon Porter after struggling to a 3-7 and 1-4 record in the Del Rey League in 2025.
82. Silas Tucker, Hart, wide receiver, junior
Tucker caught 20 receptions for 305 yards and five touchdowns. At 5-foot-11, expect Tucker to be more targeted and take the pressure off teams zeroing in on Frithsmith.
83. Bradlee Miller, Oak Park, linebacker and running back, sophomore
Kennedy wasn’t the only player who moved to Oak Park from Texas. Joining Kennedy is his stepbrother Miller, who balances the personality of his quarterbacking sibling. At 6-foot-1 and 170, Miller is going to provide an imposing option at running back and linebacker for the Eagles.
84. Matthew Farias, Granada Hills, linebacker, senior
Farias might not have the big-name school attached, but he’s a player with proven ability and the physical intangibles. His hands and ability to manhandle blockers made him among the best defensive players in the West Valley League. Farias made 121 tackles, five pass deflections, and intercepted two passes. Granada Hills could make major strides in 2026.
85. Tim Tanner, Sylmar, quarterback, senior
Tanner, the left-hander, flew under the radar for Sylmar, but proved effective as a passer. Tanner threw for 2,343 yards, 31 touchdowns, and six interceptions as a 6-foot, 160-pound playmaker. It was footwork, speed, and big-play ability to keep drives alive that became massive for the Spartans, who finished 6-5 before a heartbreaking 42-35 loss to North Hollywood in the CIF Division II Section quarterfinals.
86. Noah Sanchez, Crespi, linebacker and defensive end, junior
Sanchez made a massive impact on the defensive side of the ball in 2026 and generated 40 tackles, including 5.5 TFL and 2.5 sacks. Crespi proved he could dominate in the Del Rey League. Now the Celts look to further their postseason ambitions after getting knocked from the first round of the CIF section playoffs.
87. Denver Smith, Simi Valley, linebacker, senior
Smith provided short field coverage and was an elite tackler of ball carriers in 2026. He led Simi Valley with 96 tackles, including 11 TFLs and five sacks in 2025. Simi Valley looks for a better year with Smith and its senior leadership after a 3-7 record in 2025.
88. Paul Villegas, San Fernando, offensive line, senior
A two-way player with quiet leadership, Villegas’ protection up front and the ability to wreak havoc in the backfield allowed San Fernando to capture the CIF LA City Section Division II title in 2025. At 6-foot-5 and 295 pounds with a knack for moving people, Villegas takes the final spot in the top 10.
89. Brandon Mohaghegh, La Canada, ATH, senior
Mohaghegh became a notable 2-way player for La Canada, which finished 10-2 last season. Mohaghegh intercepted three passes, forced two fumbles, deflected nine passes, blocked a field goal, and caught 30 receptions for 440 yards and four touchdowns.
90. Paul Pennson, North Hollywood, defensive lineman, senior
The size might not stand out at first glance, but there’s a destroyer in hiding for the Huskies with Pennson leading the pass rush. Pennson did it all for North Hollywood, from running the football and making catches to impacting the line of scrimmage. Pennson made 15 sacks along with his 45 tackles and 16 TFLs. No known commits, just a man who loves to make tackles and wreak havoc.
91. Moyosoreoluwa Odebunmi, Cleveland, running back, senior
Odebunmi left a memorable impression for Cleveland after rushing for 1,139 yards and 11 touchdowns while averaging 7.9 yards per carry. Odebunmi brings dizzying speed with a strong upper body to break tackles as well. Cleveland might be the biggest threat to Birmingham’s reign in the West Valley League.
92. Aaron McCormick, Golden Valley, running back, senior
McCormick rushed for 606 yards and averaged 6 yards per carry in 2025. Expect more from McCormick and Golden Valley, whose offensive line has come back stronger and faster after a 4-6 season and barely missing in the playoffs in 2025.
93. Raul Berdon, El Camino Real, running back, sophomore
Berdon steps into the leading role for the Royals. El Camino Real has historically relied on its run game, and this season won’t be different. Berdon’s physical growth and vocal leadership have been noted.
94. Talis Payne, Oaks Christian, quarterback, sophomore
Payne is a dual-threat quarterback who started his freshman year at University Prep in Redding. He’s at Oaks Christian to show he’s worth the hype and already carries Division I offers from Sacramento State, Hawaii, and Georgia State. Still, he’s got a lot to prove. The football is different in SoCal.
95. Jacob Southall, Taft, running back, junior
Southall rushed for 449 yards and four touchdowns last season. Southall left 2025 with more to prove and, with a strong offseason, will be able to contribute more as a receiver and defensive back.
96. Matthew Quintanilla, Kennedy, ATH, senior
Quintanilla rushed for 364 yards and four touchdowns and caught 10 receptions last season for the Cougars. As a linebacker, Quintanilla made 48 tackles. He’s 5-foot-8 but plays with force.
97. Jeremiah Herreres, Canyon, wide receiver and linebacker, senior
Herreres started at both wide receiver and cornerback for the Cowboys in 2025. Herreres caught 17 receptions for 268 yards and two touchdowns, with 34 tackles and an interception for Canyon, which finished 2-8 and missed the playoffs.
98. Josh Rogosik, Hart, running back and linebacker, senior
Rogosik provided the foundation for Hart at linebacker and rushed for 222 yards and four touchdowns. Expect more production from Rogosik at linebacker.
99. Connor Petrov, Simi Valley, quarterback, junior
Petrov threw for 1,396 yards, 12 touchdowns, and nine interceptions in 2025. Petrov’s maturity, mobility, accuracy, and leadership have improved.
100. Cobe Green, Cleveland, wide receiver, senior
Green was a big target for the Cavaliers at 6-foot-1 and caught 28 receptions for 500 yards and three touchdowns. Cleveland is more experienced in the competitive West Valley League after going 5-9 last season.
The next four
101. Sho Fujita, Burroughs, running back, senior
Don’t let the 5-foot-6 size fool you. Fujita is a hammer. He rushed for 906 yards and scored six touchdowns last season for the Bears. He proved his versatility with 11 receptions and 145 yards in 2025.
102. Daniel Kakooza, Birmingham, quarterback, junior
Two years of work, watching film and technique growth have prepared Kakooza to step up and become QB1 for Birmingham. Kakooza’s touch and decision-making are at a new high, evidenced by his work during the summer.
103. Harry Molia, Burbank, offensive line, junior
Molia has started every game as a blocker since his freshman year. A big body at 6-foot-4 who brings experience to Burbank that could make noise after finishing 9-3 (5-1 Pacific League).
104. Daniel Tromello, Newbury Park, quarterback, freshman
The next great quarterback to come from Ventura County is Tromello. He hasn’t played a down of high school football, so let’s look at his pedigree. His mother and father are elite CrossFitters and he’s being mentored by alum and former Utah quarterback Cameron Rising. He’s 6-foot-3 and ready to make an immediate difference for the Panthers after the graduation of Brady Smigiel.