When the Rivals Miami event rolled into town last weekend, hundreds of football prospects from all over the state of Florida came out to showcase their amazing talent.
From quarterbacks, running backs, receivers and linemen on offense – to secondary performers and linemen on the defensive side of the ball, there were prospects in classes 2027-2030 that were invited to give college coaches and fans across the country see what kind of talent south Florida and other areas of the Sunshine State have for the upcoming season.
If you trace the linebacker position through the years in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, you will be blown away by the elite talent that has played the position at the high school level – and have gone on to college and professionally.
When the position had an opportunity to shine on Sunday, several local prospects were recognized for what they bring to the table and to their respective teams.
As they went through testing, drills and one-on-one competition, it was indeed evident that this group had some difference makers who were ready to make an impact.
Here is a look at the prospects who made an impression – starting with the rising senior (2027) class.
Joshua Hallas, 5’11, 205, Fort Lauderdale Calvary Christian Academy – 3.38 GPA. This two-sport (track & field) athlete is going to be someone to keep an eye on all off-season and into the 2026 season. Put up some huge numbers.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/19260633/68f7ab9407612954d34ef029
Gardi Jean-Baptiste, 6’0, 205, North Miami Beach. If you know this program, you already understand that veteran head coach Jeff Bertani uses his players at every position on both sides of the ball, and this quality talent is certainly no exception. Linebacker, defensive end, tight end and on special teams.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19673413/Gardi-JeanBaptiste
Debonaire Johnson, 6’0, 220, Hollywood McArthur – 3.3 GPA. Two Sport athlete. There is no getting around that this is one of the prospects who could emerge as the best at this position. Not only locally, but statewide with his speed, athleticism and skill.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/16942162/Debonaire-Johnson
Tedrick Oatman, 6’1, 210, Fort Lauderdale Dillard – 4.0 GPA. One of the prospects who is truly under-the-radar, but that has been changing for this two-sport (track & field) as he continues to raise the bar as a versatile defensive talent who also plays safety and nickel.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/19641797/68dc08718f077d595a6df80f
Jaiden Sheard, 6’0, 190, Plantation American Heritage – 4.8 GPA. Following in the footsteps of his father – a one-time Hollywood Hills, University of Pittsburgh and NFL standout (Jabaal Sheard), this two-sport (basketball) athlete is starting to come into his own. Is expected to have a huge senior year.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19685730/jaiden-sheard
Albert Smith, 6’2, 210, Miami Southridge. Yet another versatile difference maker on a defense that was one of the best in south Florida this past season. Whether it’s as a linebacker or at the defensive end position, he will be one of the many prospects that the Spartans will feature in 2026.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/20931961/Albert-Smith
Artrell Vance, 6’0, 210, Miami Killian – 3.2 GPA. Put up some huge numbers for the 8-3 Cougars this season during a playoff run. 111 total tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, 1 blocked punt and 1 TD.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/23255797/68e29d3c9175870d02edddeb
SOME UNDERCLASSMEN TO KEEP AN EYE ON
As the rising seniors did their thing – and were very impressive, there were also some younger prospects that also made some major strides.
Here are a few of the Class of 2028 rising juniors that caught the eye on recruiting websites, media members as fans.
Khavon Gipson, 6’1, 205, Miami Northwestern. If you watched him perform this past season you already know that this is another up-and-coming prospect that also showcased his skills at the Rivals event with a solid testing session. If you watch his film from a state championship run in 2025, you will see what everyone has been talking about.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/22891327/Khavon-Gipson
Zakhari Johnson, 6’0, 210, Miami Carol City. After spending time and learning at Miami Gardens Monsignor Pace, here is a quality football prospect that is projected to truly come into his own this coming season for the Chiefs. He has the size, strength, athletic ability and will only get better with maturity and growth. Also participates in track & field.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/22794216/6781f2289070611cabcf9b75
Keion Thomas, 6’1, 195, Miami Central. If bloodlines mean anything, and they often do, this is someone you will want to keep an eye on over the next two years/. Not only did he look good on Sunday, but the younger brother of former Central and current Los Angeles Rams standout Keir Thomas, is quick, strong and is someone who could be the next great Rocket linebacker.
Steven Moore, 6’1, 215, Miami Central – 3.2 GPA. Ever since he was in the 8th grade, here is a prospect that everyone has been watching. From his youth football days right until his sophomore season, he continues to mature and pick up more about the game. In addition, he has been a nationally ranked wrestler since grade school. Solid talent who is expected to blow up in 2026.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19498770/Steven-Moore
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For the past 55 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..