It’s been three months since Miami Palmetto’s heart-breaking loss in the 7A state semifinals, and the Panthers are still stinging from something that may never go away.

The 45-44 two overtime loss at Vero Beach, which would have sent veteran head coach Mike Manasco and his Panthers to the state title game for the first time in school history is something that is serving as fuel this off-season as this program is now among the top teams in the state and understands that anything short of getting to that final game would be a disappointment.

While there are several seniors who will be moving on, it will be up to the underclassmen and newcomers to finish the business that ended on that December night in Indian River County.

As we know, high school football is different than it has been – with student/athletes moving from school to school, and while this roster should pretty much remain the same, several new faces will be added in the coming months.

CLASS OF 2027 RISING SENIORS WILL BE COUNTED ON

With that loss to Vero Beach fresh on the minds of the returning players, this rising senior (2027) class will take the lead role this off-season and benefit from their experience.

Among those current rising seniors include Mathias Augustin (LB), Denzley Balthazar (LB), Eythan Bargman (DB), Kemoni Brooks (CB), Aiden Butler (RB), Ari Cromartie (OL), Bomani Francis (LB), Rashad Fuller (OL), Roberto Gonzalez (DE/OLB), Victor Guerrero (DL), Brandon Howard (OLB/DE), Kaden Howard (WR), Antonio Jackson (DL), Cory Johnson (LB), Elijah Johnson (OL/DL), Joshua Lamons (DB), Julian Sanchez (OL), Deyon Smith (LB/S), Jahni Smith (RB), Kelsey Veargis (DB) and safety Armond Weston.

UNDERCLASSMEN WILL BE VERY IMPORTANT

With several teams standing in the way once again in 2026, the underclassmen will be vital to this success of this program.

Among those 2028 rising juniors will be Ben Ballie (TE/DE), Britton Bayag (WR/FS), Baudelin Bontemps (DB), Julian Alvarez-Briz (OL), Jayden Diaz (OLB/DE), Nathan Katz (WR), Nicolas Lacayo (OL), Jefftavious Lyons (WR), Daniel Paulino (OL), Santana Rogers (RB), Jason Rolle (DB), Fletcher Spann III (LB) and offensive linemen Alex Urbina.

There are also Class of 2029 rising sophomores who figure to step up as well. Prospects such as Travis Godbolt Jr. (LB), Kaden Hunter (OL), Malik Lamons (WR), Haydrian Molina (QB), Landon Polizzano (K/P), Abriyam Radcliff (CB), Mario Stallings (DB) and defensive back Shawn Strozier.

2025 Miami Palmetto Panthers

Miami Booker T. Washington, W 35-0

Miami Southridge, L 34-34

Miami Christopher Columbus, W 24-21

Miami Killian, W 42-21

Coral Gables, W 43-0

Homestead South Dade, W 45-7

Miami Northwestern, L 28-0

Miami High, W 43-7

Fort Myers Bishop Verot, W 20-10

Coral Springs Coral Glades, W 42-0

Miami Christopher Columbus, W 27-10

Miami Lakes Barbara Goleman, W 65-41

Vero Beach, 45-44 (2OT)

MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/

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..

When you talk about the receiver position in south Florida, the lineage goes deep.

As far back as 50 years ago, you will find a Miami-Dade or Broward receiver who not only made a splash locally and statewide, but certainly many were recognized nationally.

From high school to college and into thew National Football League, receivers have long made a lasting impression – and as the camps, combines and 7-on-7 events have taken place the past two months, we are watching the next wave of prospects.

While we have given so many of them their place in the spotlight throughout December, January and much of February, today we take the time to showcase a few others. Some who are already on the radar – while others are being singled out for the first time – in all classes.

2027 - Kaden Howard, 5’11, 160, Miami Palmetto – 3.7 GPA. During a state playoff run, here is one of the players who really made an impact for the Panthers as a versatile receiver who scored seven times and had over 600 offensive yards. Will be one of the best in south Florida for the 2026 season. Talk to coaches who have lined up against this playmaker and all will tell you that he hasn’t come close to reaching his potential.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19438407/Kaden-Howard

2027 - Finn Crissy, 6’0, 175, Fort Lauderdale Saint Thomas Aquinas – 4.5 GPA. The son of a special teams coach, here is someone who has been around the game all of his young life and has made some major strides as a receiver over the past three seasons. Will be someone this program will certainly need for depth this coming season. Has speed and is a fluid route runner with very good hands.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/20196993/Finn-Crissy

2027 - Malik Denson, 5’10, 180, Southwest Archbishop McCarthy. Has been an impact player for this program as someone who is versatile and comes up with huge plays. During a season when the Mavericks won the district, they counted on him as a pass catcher and as a junior leader. Keep your eye on this quality football talent. Will go over 1,000 yards this coming season for his impressive career.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/20032119/68d3f20a1b118871f374fc8d

2027 - Walter Olden II, 5’11, 174, Davie Western – 3.4 GPA. During a year where the Wildcats fell off, this was someone who stepped up to make a difference as a pass catcher – scoring 12 times and accounting for over 500 yards. With a solid combine season as well as coming up huge during 7-on-7 play, this is a prospect who can definitely be the player who makes the biggest splash! Coaches who have watched him think he could be that player this year that turns the tide in games.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/19337252/697960032c2c2307ef6d579f

2027 - Jamal Robinson Jr., 6’2, 180, Hialeah Gardens Mater Academy Charter. No matter where he has lined up, this is one of those football players who grabbed the spotlight. For those who have never watched him – during his stops at Miami Killian, Miami Booker T. Washington and now for the Lions – are missing out on an impact performer. He could very well be one of the top three receivers in a very talented class. Had over 500 yards last season, but those who have watched him in the off-season believe that he hasn’t come close to reaching his potential.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19947897/Jamal-Robinson-jr

MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/

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..

FORT LAUDERDALE – When the recent Rivals Miami Elite Camp came to St. Thomas Aquinas High School, several local, regional, statewide and national recruiting experts made their way south to look at the talent that was on display.

One of the positions that has certainly gained in popularity in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties over the past decade is quarterback.

With so many prospects learning their craft from a young age, quarterbacks are now a hot property in south Florida – and no more was that evident than at the Sunday event.

As quarterbacks are learning the position from the start of their careers, by the time they reach high school, college coaches are already familiar with these talented prospects.

While many players stepped up at the recent event, and for the most part put themselves on the radar screen, Miami-Dade and Broward passers left a lasting impression that will carry over throughout the off-season and into 2026.

Today, we take a look at some of those from the #305 and #954 who turned heads, starting with the rising senior (2027) class:

Cody Conness, 6’1, 200, Fort Lauderdale Saint Thomas Aquinas - 3.81 GPA. Whether it was at St. Thomas Aquinas, Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons or back to play for the Raiders, this left-hander has worked hard, did everything asked of him and produced when called upon. While it’s extremely tough to judge any player from a camp or combine setting, making an assessment positive or negative - having watched this quality young man perform in game conditions, he is a competitor who throws a nice ball and continues to pick things up. Great attitude and when given the opportunity he will produce!

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/26286016/69498fd7e371a29ddc9e2079-

Zac Katz, 6’1, 200, Miami True North Classical Academy – 3.8 GPA. When you have the opportunity to watch prospects perform more than one time and judge their potential, you tend to see things that make them special, and this Florida International University commitment is as close to an old school prospect as you will find. Accurate, versatile and has leadership qualities that wins you games. A total team player who put up big numbers (2,448 yards, 25 touchdowns) in leading his team to a regional final. Took time away from the 7-on-7 season to work on his body and has worked hard with the weights to become more physical.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/17908883/Zachary-Katz

Kai Moore, 6’1, 199, Miami Christopher Columbus – 3.7 GPA. Ever since he was in the ninth grade, this is someone that had college coaches watching and his teammates talking about his potential. Makes the move over from Miami Norland, where he threw for 2,528 yards and 23 touchdowns - and with a solid work ethic, this is one of those prospects who brings so much to the table – on and off the field. An accurate passer who is smart, athletic and demands respect from the opposition because he’s a winner. College coaches know that their team thrives with a player like this.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/20299699/6929d2bb84423567d9906b53

James Perrone, 6’2, 190, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas. From the first time anyone had the chance to watch this impressive and versatile prospect, they were blown away with his decision making, ability to make plays and his leadership. While he will always do well at camps and combines, his game is all about what he does on the football field as he showed the past two seasons leading Miami Southridge. As this USF commitment makes his move to Broward County, he will have the opportunity to continue to grow and compete. He is not afraid to use his legs to add to his arsenal and move the chains. During a deep playoff run, he threw for 3,231 yards and 33 touchdowns and added 636 yards and nine scores on the ground.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/19687356/66fcb1a2fc56e166ea364e68

Jack Spaeder, 6’3, 195, Davie Western – 3.75 GPA. Starts his final season in high school as a three-year varsity starter who played at Hialeah American and Coconut Creek Monarch before moving over to play for the Wildcats this past year. Has a strong arm (1,600 yards), will run if needed and is a competitor. Works as hard as anyone in this class to improve and get better. Had a solid Rivals event and will use that as a springboard to the off-season, where spring will be vital to his future. Was named as one of the top quarterbacks in Broward County this past season.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/18342160/Jack-Spaeder

Jackson Stroud, 6’5, 195, Hollywood McArthur. Comes over from Fort Lauderdale Calvary Christian where he had the opportunity to learn and play. His ability pass and run made this talented athlete someone to keep an eye on – and you can guarantee that he will have the opportunity to play this game at a high level. Threw for 11 touchdowns last season while get some quality starts. This off-season will be all about getting more reps and competing in as many events as possible. Watching him at the Rivals event you can tell that his footwork and release will certainly be an asset.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/18998620/691a3fad4a50c91c2d7d8e1f

CLASS 2028 PROSPECTS DREW PRAISE FROM COACHES AND FELLOW PLAYERS

As the local 2027 prospects were being watched closely by the instructors and coaches on Sunday, you can almost guarantee that they were all looking into the future – and there were some quality prospects to watch.

Here is a look at a few rising juniors (2028):

Blake Calixte, 6’1, 160, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas – 4.25 GPA. Only at a powerhouse like this program can you have a young player already showcase enough skills and ability that colleges are starting to extend interest. This run/pass prospect is certainly someone that this program is banking on for the future. This spring and throughout the off-season you can expect him to continue learning and maturing. Just watching some of his scrimmage clips you can see exactly what he brings to the table.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/23043531/676d6946a232c3c8c26a77fa

Logan Escobedo, 6’3, 185, Plantation – 5.17 GPA. Here is someone that we have been waiting to see for the past two seasons. Injuries have sidetracked his career, but when you watch him make plays during 7-on-7 events and the Rivals event last Sunday, you can see what he brings to the table as a prospect. He is the definition of a student/athlete, who does extremely well in the classroom, which will open doors. Anxious to see him play this coming season and continue to establish himself as a prospect.

Dontavious Kinchens, 5’10, 165, Miami Northwestern. Making the move from Mater Academy, here is a prospect that is very much under the radar, and will have the opportunity to continue maturing this off-season. Threw for over 1,200 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. The younger brother of former University of Miami All-American and Los Angeles Rams star safety Kam Kinchens had a productive day at Rivals. He tested well, did some impressive drills and showcased an accurate arm during competition. While he still has a lot to learn, you can bet that he is willing to do what it takes.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/23167037/Dontavious-Kinchens

Nate Merrell Jr., 6’4, 175, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas – 3.4 GPA. After a season where he led his Miami Immaculata LaSalle program to the region finals and 11 wins by throwing for 1,800 yards and 24 touchdowns, this impressive student athlete makes the move north to compete for playing time with the seven-time defending state champions. This is a prospect who is not only on the rise on the football field but is also a quality baseball (pitcher/shortstop) prospect. Showcased some of skills at the Rivals event as several recruiting “gurus” were impressed at what he brings to the table.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/18015085/Nate-Merrell-Jr

Brady Quinn, 6’1, 195, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna. When you throw for nearly 3,000 yards and 37 touchdowns and happen to lead your team (Naples Lely) into the state playoffs, you become major news when you transfer to a school that has reached the state finals nine consecutive years. No matter where this quality prospects goes, everyone knows exactly who he is. One of the top performers in the nation is a gifted talent who has played at a high level since youth league. Will be in the spotlight in the spring as college coaches continue to evaluate right through until the start of the 2026 season. Big time prospect! He also holds down a 4.0 grade point average in the classroom.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/19487425/68b58f396671c4f59536c7b9

LEONARD ANXIOUS TO LEAD THE WAY AGAIN IN THE CLASS OF 2029

There is no getting around the fact that Malik Leonard was the talk of high school football in the state of Florida. A 14/15-year-old freshman that led his team to the state title game, throwing for an amazing 2,935 yards and 31 touchdowns for the Lions. This left-hander, who has a 3.8 GPA in the classroom, is still learning the game as he makes the move from Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna to play for the Chiefs this coming season. In 255 attempts, the 6’1, 170-pounder threw just six interceptions!

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/25428037/Malik-Jeremiah-Leonard

MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/

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..

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 8^th 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

MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/

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..