Five Class of 2026 names to know in Georgia
Every cycle it seems as if prospects are getting offers earlier and earlier in their high school careers, with major programs searching far and wide to not only find the next big thing, but to be one of the first schools in the mix with an offer.
With the Georgia high school football season in full swing and after seeing some of the state's top teams, here's a look at five high school freshman that will be names for recruiting observers to know for years to come.
Lewis has already had a recruiting process worthy of headlines, garnering offers from the likes of Alabama, Georgia, Texas and several other major programs before his high school career even started. Lewis even went viral over the summer for impressing current NFL players during a workout in Atlanta with his arm strength and accuracy. But of course none of that would really matter is Lewis didn't back it up on the field on Friday nights. So far that's been more than the case as he is putting up big numbers while leading his team to an undefeated record. Lewis is one of the most-hyped young quarterbacks in the state of Georgia since Trevor Lawrence and so far he's showing he's more than worth the early buzz.
Playing for a team loaded with defensive prospects, it seemed like Hicks might have to wait his turn to see the field. As it turns out, that wasn't the case. He started in Week 1 and hasn't looked back, flying around the field on defense while playing defensive back and also seeing some time at wide receiver. Hicks strong play during the first half of the season was enough to earn an offer from Georgia, the defending national champions, and several other programs are sure to follow.
The younger brother of Class of 2023 Rivals100 LB and Miami commit Raul Aguirre, Markel is making a name for himself in his first season of varsity football. Playing primarily defensive back, Aguirre has a nose for the ball and has already forced multiple turnovers this season. While his recruiting profile is just starting to grow, it wouldn't be surprising to see his first offer come in soon.
Another young prospect making a name for himself on a loaded high school team, Carter has flashed the type speed and big play ability that is tough to keep off the field. The son of former Florida State star and San Francisco 49ers return man Dexter Carter, Devin has already netted an offer from the Seminoles, as well as Arkansas, South Carolina and Nebraska. Playing alongside talented Class of 2025 QB EJ Colson, Carter should be putting up big numbers over the next few years.
Atkinson entered high school with plenty of hype and an offer list to match and he has wasted little time backing it up with his play. As part of a Grayson team that has future college football players at pretty much every position, Atkinson stands out with his ability to rush the passer as well as drop back and play in space. By the time he's ready to go to college, it's likely Atkinson will be a pure edge, but in the meantime he's using his athleticism to make an impact all over the field. Georgia is believed to be the early favorite for Atkinson, who also has offers from Tennessee, Texas A&M, Michigan and several other schools.