When Elias Sturman of Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna was named MVP of the recent Under Armour Next Miami Combine, it started to shine a spotlight on the offensive line position in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties.
The 6'1, 308-pounder did well in drills and more than held his own in the competition that brought together some quality “big men” from all over southern Florida.
Sturman, who came to the school last year from Bradenton IMG Academy, is part of the new breed of linemen who take part in competition year round.
With 5-on-5 events along with line camps at colleges throughout the summer, the linemen are no longer placed in the background.
Because of the need for quality line play, there are several events that are held to teach technique while elevating the exposure of these prospects.
With events such as Under Armour, Rivals, Prep Redzone Florida and other showcases, linemen are now fully in the spotlight.
In addition to Sturman, other Miami-Dade and Broward linemen who gained valuable exposure at the Miami event included Class o0f 2026 rising seniors:
Ekeem Atehortua, 6'3, 310, Hollywood Chaminade Madonna – 3.7 GPA. Three-year performer for the Lions during their championship run.
Mekhi Bradley, 6'4, 280, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas. Comes south with plenty of potential and talent that will keep the Raiders on top.
Jordan Davis, 6'4, 330, Hollywood McArthur. Brings his talent from Davie Western and was easily one of the most dominant players at the UA event.
Bryan Granger, 6'3, 285, Pembroke Pines West Broward – 3.2 GPA. Has been on the radar for two years and has emerged into a quality player and leader.
Ben Gula, 6'5, 293, Weston Cypress Bay – 3.0 GPA. Heading into his third year as a prospect, this quality talent continues to get college interest.
DeJuan Johnson, 6’8, 308, Miami Gardens Monsignor Pace. This is someone you want to keep an eye on. A basketball player who is making the move to the gridiron and looks like a gifted young man that has the tools.
Ryan Miret, 6'4, 280, Miami Southridge – 4.4 GPA. A state and nationally rated wrestler who has emerged into a national line recruit with several Power 4 schools interested.
Dylan Steen, 6'5, 285, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas. Following in the footsteps of his brother who collected a Super Bowl ring this past season. He is well on his way to making a major leap.
Ashley Walker, 6'7, 295, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna. Comes south with plenty to offer the Lions and will keep this program at the top nationally as well. Great size and potential.
Rising juniors in the Class of 2027 also had the chance to shine as well:
Gerren Bray, 6'2, 290, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas – 3.5 GPA. This past season, he played a huge role for the 6A state champion West Boca Raton Bulls. Another fast-rising prospect.
Jayden Dean, 6'2, 285, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas – 3.75 GPA. Considered as one of the top centers in the state and anchors one of the best offensive lines in the state.
Aiden Hartnett, 6'3, 295, Plantation American Heritage – 3.8 GPA. Helped to lead the Patriots to a 4A state title this past season. A very talented football player.
Mark Matthews, 6'7, 275, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas. Another of the big men who stole the show at the combine and showed why he will be one of the best in Florida during the 2025 season.
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