As the winter has now yielded to the warmer weather in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, college football coaches are making their daily stops at high schools.
There to watch spring practice and gain an edge on recruiting, this is certainly the time when may athletes will have the opportunity to jump on the radar – and impress those coaches who come from everywhere in the country to see the talent that is always impressive.
While spring may not be as important in every state, the month between late April and late May means just about everything to the football prospects and the coaches who are trying to sell their players.
The process is in the middle of playing out for these student/athletes who spend most of March and early April visiting these colleges to watch them practice and see for themselves what to expect if they make the decision to attend.
The second part of that process is now – when the college coaches come to see the players do their things – in scrimmages and end of spring games that will shine a spotlight on what they do in game situations and not in a pair of shorts and a t-shirt.
The final part comes in the month of June when once again these athletes head out to colleges to attend their camps, 7-on-7 competition, talk with coaches and see the campus when it’s warmer and not so crowded.
RISING SENIORS ARE ON THE CLOCK
Spring is the time when rising seniors (2027) put on their final audition before a decision is made on both sides. There is a sense of reality that comes into play on these visits when coaches and players are further evaluated and validated for their athletic ability.
Today, we bring you five rising seniors who are on the clock and will have the opportunity this spring and into the summer to showcase their many talents.
Gardi Jean-Baptiste, LB/DE, 6’1, 215, Miami Central. Coming over from North Miami Beach, this is someone who has the opportunity to be special. Whether as an outside linebacker or as a defensive end, coming off the edge, his strength is definitely chasing down the quarterback and using his speed, strength and overall athleticism to make plays. Will fit in with what the Rockets do on defense, using plenty of speed.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19673413/Gardi-JeanBaptiste
Nixon Kalish, QB, 6'4 175, South Plantation – 4.5 GPA. Was a huge part of the Paladins success last season – with 2,369 yards through the air with 20 touchdowns. Has the size and football skills to be a force once again. While he isn’t known for his running skills, he will use his legs to help move the chains. He had over 200 yards on the ground in 2025.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/23180605/Nixon-Kalish
Albert Smith, LB, 6’2, 210, Miami Southridge – 3.3 GPA. On a defense that was one of the best in south Florida a year ago, and will have the opportunity to be special once again, this versatile football talent will be someone that you will need to keep an eye on. He is quick, athletic and instinctive. Has matured and grown with this program and is coming of a season where his skills as an outside linebacker or in the middle were instrumental in getting this team deep in the playoffs once again. Because of his ability to make plays, colleges have already started to offer this All-County performer.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/20931961/Albert-Smith
Jahni Smith, RB/SS, 5’8, 175, Miami Palmetto. Makes his way over from Miami’s Florida Christian where he was a two-way player for a very talented team. Joins a program that returns several key member of last year’s regional championship team. What offers the Panthers is someone who can run the ball and make plays on the offensive side of the ball – while being able to play in the secondary and use his speed and skill to make an impact. Will be a player that college coaches will notice this spring and will have the chance to make a major contribution.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/26168813/JaHni-Smith
Jaylen “Thanos” Thanis, DL, 6’2, 280, Miami Carol City. As many are just finding out about this gifted football player, he was actually one of the elite defensive linemen in south Florida a year ago, playing for 3A state final Miami Northwestern, where he was dominant – with 1 touchdown, 2 fumbles recoveries, 5 forced fumbles 7 sacks, 20 tackles for loss and 59 tackles (20 assists). This is a player who has the chance to really blow up with the Chiefs this coming season.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19538967/Jaylen-Thanis
FLORIDA EXPOSURE EVENT COMING MAY 23RD. Right after spring and a week before summer. This is a cannot miss exposure camp/combine. Sign Up Early!!! https://prepredzone.com/2026/04/why-should-i-attend-the-prep-redzone-florida-exposure-event/
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..