If you have followed high school football through the years in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, you already know that the running backs who comes out of the two areas emerge as elite prospects.
Go back into the 1960’s and 70’s and you will find a unique pipeline that has continued for over 50 years and still exist as we get ready for the 2026 season.
Last year Nino Joseph ran for 1,995 yards as one of the state’s best at Naples Lely.
This impressive runner went on to score 23 times as he helped to lead the Trojans to a state playoff appearance.
After transferring briefly to nearby Naples St. John Neumann, this 5’7, 185-pounder, who also caught 14 passes for 161 yards, moved across state and will now be the featured back for the Miami Central Rockets.
This quality student/athlete, who holds down a 3.2 grade point average in the classroom, will not only be south Florida’s best, but he will battle some of the best for a state rushing title and will be essential in giving his new school a chance to be one of the best.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19652825/Nino-Joseph
JOSEPH IS NOT ALONE AS RUNNERS TO WATCH IN 2026
While this quality talent will be someone everyone will be watching, he will not be alone. Miami-Dade and Broward Counties have some other returnees to keep an eye on as well:
2027 - Amos Bradford, 6’0, 180, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna. Easily one of the most versatile prospects who brings so much to the table as a runner, blocker and receiver. Was instrumental in helping West Broward reach the 6A state title game before transferring to Hollywood. Has great vision and tremendous speed. While he’s currently committed to Toledo, expect him to blow up even more this coming season. Had 832 yards and scored seven times a year ago.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/29567669/Amos-Bradford
2027 – Kamary Cooper, 5’11, 190, South Plantation. Because this quality talent didn’t play for an elite program, there are many who still have never watched play, but his 1,839 yards and 20 touchdowns this past season only illustrates what this impressive talent is all about. His off-season has indeed been fun to watch as more and more colleges had the chance to see what he is all about and offers started to come in.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/22473011/Kamary-Cooper
2028 – Adrian Cox, 5’10, 180, Miami Northwestern. One of south Florida elite underclassmen makes his way over from Miami Immaculata LaSalle after an 1,100-yard, 18 touchdown performance. Had a tremendous off-season as college coaches had their first look at this quality talent.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/23535392/692c9b27804979f842c2babc
2027 – Damien Grant, 5’8, 185, Southwest Ranches Archbishop McCarthy – 3.4 GPA. One of the most overlooked backs in south Florida, all this impressive talent has done is produce for the defending district champions. Coming off a 1,200-yard, 14-touchdown season. Picked up plenty of interest in the off-season for what he brings to the table as a producer and leader - and will be someone that you will want to keep an eye on all year!
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/20312279/691cc189502a4bd69c34e670
2027 – Arwin Jackson, 5’11, 180, Miami Carol City. This speedy standout makes the move for his final season at the high school level after three very productive seasons at Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna. Went over the 1,000-yard mark last season for the state 1A runner-up Lions with nine touchdowns. Committed to attend Appalachian State University. Track and Field standout.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/19501886/694ac344e973529892f82e02
2027 – Rashard Lewis, 5’8, 165, Fort Lauderdale Westminster Academy. This quality athlete who plays all over the field for this program returns after a tremendous junior season that saw him run for 1,155 yards and giving this team a huge lift on both sides of the ball. Was also a force in the second.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/26850575/Rashard-Lewis
2027 – Lee Prince Jr., 5’10, 175, Miami Carol City. One of Florida’s fastest backs makes a move this off-season to Miami-Dade County after a solid junior season (800 yards) at Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna. Headed to West Virginia University, this is not only a tremendous football prospect, but is also an outstanding student in the classroom. He is expected a big year for the Chiefs.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19585391/Prince-Lee
2027 - Tyler Reid, 5’10, 170, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas. After a 1,070-yard and nine-touchdown performance a year ago for Miramar, this speedy difference maker is now a Raider and adds to what this program already has at the position. Following in the footsteps of his older brother, Desmond Reid, who has starred at the University of Pittsburgh for the past two years, he committed to join the Panthers. He is a track phenom, who posted (100m 10.48 - 200m 21.62 - 40 yard dash 4.38) elite times.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/20012149/64f096822aa6530770405a21
2027 - Cecil Smith, 5’8, 170, Miami Christopher Columbus – 3.1 GPA. From his freshman year at Homestead when the Broncos were grooming him to fill the rather large shoes of Isaac Brown, to this past season when he made quite a splash for the Miami True North Classical Academy Titans during a district championship season, this is a back who is among the best in the state. He rushed for 1,400 yards on 129 carries with 524 receiving yards on 28 receptions for 2,134 all-purpose yards and 18 touchdowns. Has picked up plenty of momentum this off-season as he will be a huge piece for the Explorers.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/20496279/Cecil-Smith
2027 - Jahnard Young, 5’11, 210, Fort Lauderdale Dillard – 3.4 GPA. After moving south last season to attend Sunrise Piper, this impressive back left Vero Beach after a very productive sophomore season, where he was one of the top young prospects in the Indian River County area. Originally left Piper for Plantation, but ended up with the Panthers. Ran for 1,395 yards and 22 touchdowns a year ago and comes back as one of the top prospects in the state. There are still several “national analysts” who have not watched him play, which is a shame!
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/17540739/Jahnard-Young
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 56 years, we have spent more time on football fields than anyone in the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we get to as many events as possible to see the athletes LIVE. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein), Instagram (OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
MIAMI GARDENS – As he gets ready for his third year as part of Ohio State’s football program, Jeremiah Smith fully understands what has put him in a position where he’s regarded as the best receiver in the country.
From the time he started playing football and working harder than anyone, there was no doubt that he was going to be special. But special enough to become perhaps the No. 1 selection in the 2027 National Football League Draft?
From the time he arrived in Columbus – almost immediately – he turned heads and proved then Offensive Coordinator Brian Hartline right about his enormous talent.
Whether it was in youth football, at Miami Gardens Monsignor Pace High School or Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna, where he was recognized as the best in the nation – while winning state championships and breaking record – there were people behind the scenes helping this amazing young man reach his potential.
On Thursday, Smith came home as he hosted a football camp at Lester Brown Park – in the heart of a community where he grew up and become the man he is today.
Surrounded by his family, friends and those who have impacted his life, Smith greeted hundreds of youngsters – ages 8-14 for a few hours to embrace those who had the same dreams he had as a kid on these football fields.
Those who have been a big part of his life came out to show their support and witness him giving back, and unlike many who just throw their names on event, actually interact with children and adults.
From photos to autographs and talking with everyone who came out, this dominating football player who caught 163 balls for 2,558 yards and 27 touchdowns in two years had the chance to say thank you to everyone that has behind him since he started playing this sport.
One of the first to notice how special Smith was, as a kid, was Sly Johnson from Premier Athletes. The “Wizard”, who has been around elite prospects since after his playing days, knew almost right away how special he would be.
“The one thing about Jeremiah that you could see almost immediately is that he got it,” Johnson explained. “Away from his talent, his knowledge of the game and position set him apart from the rest and that has stayed with him.”
From former and current teammates to social media influencers and politicians, they were all there to make sure that they were a part of something special. Even Councilwoman Katrina Baskin got into spirit as she warmed up with Smith and showed that she was ready for his homecoming.
Also a special thanks to the City of Miami Gardens Mayor Rodney Harris, Vice Mayor Robert Stephens III, Councilman Reggie Leon, Councilwoman Michelle Powell and Councilwoman Linda Julien for their amazing support.
For nearly two hours, Smith and the many coaches who had been part of his life ran drills, talked about the game and were part of an event that was something everyone had looked forward to.
Coaches who were there from his youth days as well as high school and into college were proud to see this superstar come home and give back. But remember, before he ever played a game in college, he donated $5,000 to his alma mater, Chaminade!
As the players, parents, supporters, friends and family members left the event – there was a reminder that companies like Battle Sports, Adidas and several others stepped up to make this first annual camp a success.
On a personal note: I have covered thousands and thousands of athletes through the decades, and while many have gone on to reach the very top of their sport, it’s young men like Jeremiah Smith and his family that you will always remember and keep in that close circle.
Congratulations to the City of Miami Gardens for running a first-class event along with Chris Circo of Battle Sports, Andrew Gleason from Adidas and Brett Goetz (Founder of SFE – South Florida Express - for showing their support!
PHOTO COURTESY OF IZUBEE CHARLES – BATTLE SPORTS
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 56 years, we have spent more time on football fields than anyone in the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we get to as many events as possible to see the athletes LIVE. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein), Instagram (OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Like it is with the defensive backs, where there are always gifted prospects, it’s no secret that when it comes to receivers in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, college coaches make it a priority to recruit these top performers.
As we said before, like defensive secondary performers, receivers have been a target for colleges and universities across the country, and as we head toward the 2026 season, nothing has changed.
Coming off the 2025 season, this region of the state produced some of the top playmakers. Several players were among the top when it came to picking off passes – and quite a few of them will return for another year.
Once again, today we shine the rather bright spotlight on some of the players who had big years last season are back once again.
Here is a look at some of those difference makers:
CLASS OF 2027
Anthony Jennings, 6’1, 175, Fort Lauderdale Dillard – 3.5 GPA. Track Field. “Speedy” has been one of the elite receiving prospects in the state for the past two years, and this University of Florida commitment is coming off a 34 reception, 823 yards and 11 touchdown season.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/18231676/691b630f2f0461ff7a407a8a
Julius Jones Jr., 5’10, 175, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas. This recent Notre Dame commitment helped to lead the Raiders to their seventh consecutive state title with 58 receptions for 876 yards and 14 touchdowns.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/20767020/6723ac5c4e7dacfcf52131e3
Carlos Avila-Lopez, 5’10, 180, Pembroke Pines West Broward. Last season, during his junior year at Fort Lauderdale NSU University School, this gifted prospects finished the season with 46 catches (15.56 yards per catch) for 716 yards.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19355992/Carlos-AvilaLopez
Tyrone Williams III, 6’0, 181, Miami Immaculata LaSalle – Track & Field. One of the most sought after prospects this off-season returns after a stellar junior season where he caught 44 passes for 724 yards and nine receptions.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/20858144/692b587884423567d990e4f3
CLASS OF 2028
Drew Barber, 6’0, 160, Fort Lauderdale Westminster Academy. Finished the 2025 season for the Lions with 63 catches for 1,032 yards and 11 touchdowns. Is also a basketball standout.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/22594747/Drew-Barbar
Britton Bayag, 5’9, 165, Miami Palmetto – 4.6 GPA. Last season, as a versatile member of Miami Westminster Christian, this standout finished the season with 46 receptions for 784 yards and 11 scores for the Warriors.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19403794/Britton-Bayag
Tromon Isaac Jr., 5’11, 190, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna. Ended his sophomore season for the 1A state runner up Lions with 38 catches for 763 yards and six touchdowns.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19498576/Tromon-Isaac-Jr
CLASS OF 2029
Aviyon Darien, 5’11, 180, Miami Northwestern. After a stellar freshman season at Hialeah’s ABF Academy – with 42 catches for 710 yards and five scores, he makes the move to play for the Bulls and has enjoyed a tremendous off-season.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/25970057/Aviyon-Darien
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 56 years, we have spent more time on football fields than anyone in the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we get to as many events as possible to see the athletes LIVE. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein), Instagram (OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
It’s no secret that when it comes to defensive backs in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, college coaches make it a priority to recruit prospects in the secondary.
For what ever reason, cornerbacks and safeties have always found their way from youth league to high school, college and into the NFL from field across south Florida.
Along with the receiver position, defensive backs have been a target for colleges and universities across the country, and as we head toward the 2026 season, nothing has changed.
Coming off the 2025 season, this region of the state produced some of the top playmakers. Several players were among the top when it came to picking off passes – and quite a few of them will return for another year.
Today, we shine the rather bright spotlight on some of the players who had big years last season are back once again.
Here is a look at some of those difference makers:
CLASS OF 2027
David Cesar, 5’10, 170, Miami Dr. Krop. In 2025, as a two-way player for the Lighting, he picked off four passes.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/22912077/David-Cesar
George Diaz, 6’1, 186, Miami Archbishop Carroll – 3.1 GPA. Capped off his junior season with a state playoff appearance and four interceptions from his safety position. He also had 42 total tackles and 11 pass breakups.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/20135564/George-Diaz
Jemari Foreman, 6’1, 180, Weston Cypress Bay. This FSU commitment came up with 10 interceptions a year ago as a junior at Plantation.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/23197049/68d405ffe306c34b09181507
George Harris, 6’0, 190, Miami True North Classical Academy. This versatile prospect finished his junior season as a catalyst for the Titans with nine interceptions.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/17631972/68cf18738a61b935346a86f9
Andre Hyppolite, 6’1, 180, North Miami Beach. This recent University of Miami commitment, who plays all over the field for the Chargers, ended his junior season with five interceptions.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19428607/Andre-Hyppolite
Michael Millar, 6’1, 180, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna. A year ago, during his junior season at Weston Cypress Bay, this safety finished with four interceptions.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19674060/Michael-Millar
Leondre Strawder, 6’0, 188, Hialeah Gardens Mater Academy. During his junior season for the Lions, he finished the year with four picks.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/24162284/Leondre-Strawder
2028
Dylan Galadza, 6’1, 170, Miami Archbishop Carroll. In 11 games for the Bulldogs, he came up with four interceptions and 30 tackles during a season that ended with a state playoff game.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/22873472/Dylan-Galadza
2029
David Lima, 5’8, 150, Homestead Somerset Academy Silver Palms – 3.417 GPA. As a freshman, this versatile two-way standout showcased his skills – coming up with four interceptions for the Stallions.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/26280865/69251358843db2a7705173f4
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 56 years, we have spent more time on football fields than anyone in the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we get to as many events as possible to see the athletes LIVE. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein), Instagram (OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
During the course of any season, there are going to be impact players that some may overlook.
On any given team, there are prospects who make plays and fill up the stat sheet, only to be taken for granted by other more high profile players.
When it comes to defense, returning an interception or fumble for a score will get you the headlines and put you into the spotlight, but what about those athletes who lead their team in tackles and are the reasons why games are won and lost?
Being a leading tackler on a team will get you mentioned, but they turn out to be the unsung heroes and should be recognized for what they bring to the table.
Today, we bring you some of the top tacklers in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties who will be back for the 2026 season. Talented game-changers who will have the chance to propel their teams into the state playoffs – and beyond:
CLASS OF 2027
Levi Champion (Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas). 182 total tackles and among the most total tackles for the second straight year at West Palm Beach The King’s Academy.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/18043861/Levi-Champion
Trey Hollandsworth (Fort Lauderdale Westminster Academy). 136 Tackles, 128 Solo 23 TFL, 6 Sacks.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/6362144/Trey-Hollandsworth
Tedrick Oatman (Fort Lauderdale Dillard). 120 total tackles and six sacks out of his linebacker position last year at Miami Norland.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/19641797/68dc08718f077d595a6df80f
Wyatt Smith (Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas). Finished with 115 tackles (62 solo) and 13 sacks.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/20133523/Wyatt-Smith
CLASS OF 2028
Ricky Carter (Miami True North Classical Academy). On of the elite players in Florida, he had 136 tackles and six sacks for a state playoff team.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/22328895/Ricky-Cater
Chanavis Chance Jr. (Miami Christopher Columbus). 126 as a linebacker at Plantation High.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/22769095/Chanavis-Chance-Jr
Ahziah Murphy (Miami Norland). Playing both defensive end/linebacker, he led the Vikings with 109 total tackles (76 solo).
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/23033189/Ahziah-Murphy
CLASS OF 2029
Noah Finkelstein (Coconut Creek North Broward Prep). 150 tackles, 2.5 sacks 10 tfl, 4 FR, 2 PBU.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/26293095/Noah-Finkelstein
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
For the past 56 years, we have spent more time on football fields than anyone in the country. From games to practices, camps, combines and 7-on-7 events, we get to as many events as possible to see the athletes LIVE. Follow us on Facebook (Larry Blustein), Instagram (OurBoyBlu) and Twitter (@PrepRedzoneFL). Contact us at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..