As we race toward April in this quick moving year, spring football for high schools is drawing closer.

As college coaches from all over the country head to Miami-Dade and Broward Counties to see some of the amazing talent, they will see prospects that they have known about for some time. But they will also come across football talent that continues to emerge and mature.

As the rising senior (2027) class is very much on the clock, and there are still many who have not made their decision on where to go to college, the underclassmen are also out there ready to showcase their talent as well.

When many of these colleges and recruiters last saw many of these players – especially the younger ones – they were smaller and lacked experience, but all that is changing.

Today, we continue to shine a spotlight on those younger players with a look at some Class of 2028 rising junior defensive prospects who are making some major strides.

Alexander “Alex” Beltran, DE, 6’4, 215, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna. From the first time you watch him perform, you are immediately sold. This is a very athletic talent who has a motor that does not stop. His speed and athleticism have gotten him to the level where college coaches are bowled over. He is one of those throwback kinds of prospects that plays this game from whistle to whistle. Even last season as a sophomore, he gave this team a preview of what is going to come over the next two seasons. Has taken advantage of the off-season with impressive performances at several events.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/23048466/Alexander-Beltran

Julien Castillo, LB, 5’10, 190, Southwest Miami. If this program is going to turn things around, having a prospect like this is essential. When you watch him play this game, you can see what kind of prospect he is developing into. He is always around the ball, a sure tackler and someone who comes to play this game. While he is still growing, his confidence comes from working in the weightroom, watching film to see exactly what he needs to work on to get better and being passionate about the game. Has a chance to be special with a solid off season, which will include this spring.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/23544154/julien-castillo

Clarence Gillis Jr., OLB, 5’10, 185, Coconut Creek. The best thing about watching the talent in south Florida is you see many of these quality prospects go from youth football and take their game to the next level. This former youth standout had a tremendous 2025 season as one of the top tacklers the Plantation Colonels had. Was instrumental in the first-round state playoff win at unbeaten Fort Lauderdale Dillard, coming up with play after play. A solid prospect, who still has time to grow into his body. What makes him such an outstanding linebacker is his ability to make plays. Ended the season as one of the top tacklers on a very athletic and skilled team. He will be fun to watch over the next two years.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/26904582/Clarence-gillis-jr

Travares Vicks, DT, 6’1, 240, Miami Christopher Columbus. With so many moves being made this off-season so far, here is someone that may have been one that slid under the radar. Watching him at Miami Northwestern in his brief appearance, this is certainly one of those players who showed that he will get after you and has a motor that doesn't stop until the play is over. He gets off the ball quickly and has plenty of athleticism, which will add up as he continues to hit the weightroom. While many have not watched him perform because his playing time was limited, this could be a talent that blows up this coming season. Not just because of a different environment, but if you watched him play last season, there were so many things to like – and he was just a raw sophomore who is still learning the game. It will be fun to continue to watch his progress in 2026.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/22441770/Travares-Vicks

Antonio Wilcher Jr., DT, 6’2, 280, Miami Southridge. From the time we watched him at Palm Glades to what he now brings to the table, heading into his junior year, this is someone who we consider as one of the best defensive linemen in the state – and one who is blowing up around the country. He is quick off the ball, strong and will get after the quarterback and shed blockers like many seniors do not do. He is the blueprint for a major college nose tackle and if anyone wants to dispute that, you need to watch him play. He doesn’t just play the game, but dominates and is part of one of Florida’s top defensive lines for the Spartans. As he matures and gets more technically sound, you will see how he separates himself from the competition. The next two years will be fun to watch as those who said he was too short will start to eat their words – one at a time!

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19062885/Antonio-Wilcher-Jr

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..