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..

FORT LAUDERDALE – There are so many areas of this country that produces elite high school football talent, but when it comes to south Florida, everyone agrees that the prospects are just different.

When the Rivals Miami Elite Camp came to St. Thomas Aquinas High School last Sunday, the impressive array of current and future football talent was on display in all classes.

As local, regional, statewide and national recruiting gurus came out to give their opinions on this wave of football talent that colleges and universities will look to get into their respective programs, it was time to step up and showcase a region that has long churned out impressive players that have gone on to the next level and beyond.

Among the prospects that were on display were an emerging group of linemen that have already found their way onto the radar – nationally.

With several events geared to getting the linemen more exposure and raising the talent bar, those on hand watched a number of Miami-Dade and Broward players that will be in the spotlight over the next 10 months.

Here are some of the players who stepped up their game and were talked about by all who attended.

RISING SENIORS ARE LOADED WITH DIFFERENCE MAKERS

The Class of 2027 is a place where offensive linemen will certainly make a difference, and there was no shortage of elite prospects:

Gerren Bray, 6’2, 295, Fort Lauderdale Saint Thomas Aquinas – 3.5 GPA.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19783194/Gerren-Bray

Amari Cherenfant, 6’2, 293, Hollywood McArthur.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/19568616/68defe3b6f2932b7d6b8a40c

Jayden Dean, 6’2, 285, Fort Lauderdale Saint Thomas Aquinas – 3.75 GPA.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/18274620/6944dcebfe3272e54109e373

Giovanni Garner, 6’4, 325, Miami Carol City – 3.1 GPA.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/26911829/697168c76b510df375161359

Aiden “Big Country” Hartnett, 6’3, 285, Plantation American Heritage – 3.8 GPA.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/17994260/Aiden-Hartnett

Cooper Hixon, 6’5, 310, Miami Westminster Christian - 4.98 GPA-31 ACT.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19405060/Cooper-Hixon

Mark Matthews, 6’6, 305, Fort Lauderdale St Thomas Aquinas.

TAPE:  https://www.hudl.com/profile/19972142/Mark-Matthews

Devon Munnings, 6’5, 280, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna – 3.03 GPA.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/23100945/68ea95662571e8dd77a4f757

Nico Ramos, 6’6, 315, Plantation American Heritage – 4.0 GPA.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/23679186/Nico-Ramos  

Ronald Riley, 6’4, 315, Miami True North Classical Academy – 3.1 GPA.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/17569464/Ronald-Riley

Mylo-Elijah Tshinkola, 6’4, 285, Coral Gables – 3.95 GPA.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/26989722/MyloElijah-Tshinkola

Jamarian Wilson, 6’2, 290, Miami Central.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/23512726/672ba2f386296d82767580cb

CLASS OF 2028 PROSPECTS SHOWCASE A BRIGHT FUTURE

As the rising seniors did their thing at the event, there were several local underclassmen that made a statement and showed that the future would be bright as well.

Class of 2028 rising juniors turned heads:

Semaj Robinson, 6’3, 280, Miami Carol City – 3.6 GPA.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/22368838/Semaj-Robinson

Laulelei “Deuce” Sualevai, 6’5, 295, Miami Christopher Columbus.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/22794729/Laulelei-Deuce-Sualevai

Nijal Thigpen, 6’6, 280, Miami Carol City – 3.5 GPA.

TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/9288079/68cade4d7611e1d19f71d726

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..

One of the most popular radio shows of its kind heads toward the middle of February with another impressive show on Monday night.

Six guests filled the two hours as the South Florida High School Sports Show once again presented some interesting topics.

Each week, the FM 104.3 WQAM radio program attracts the newsmakers in high school sports, recruiting college sports – not only locally, but throughout the country.

The show gives listeners an opportunity to hear about college football programs statewide from the media that cover them. It also focuses on the coaches who use the state of Florida – Miami-Dade and Broward Counties in particular.

The program, which has run for nearly two decades and has been recognized nationally as one of the best of its kind, has become a popular listen for recruiting fans as well as high school sports purists, focusing on high sports and the newsmakers.

Here is a look at the way Monday night went:

Heading into the 10^th year, the Orange Bowl High School Football Showcase has been huge for student/athletes who are still looking for financial assistance to attend college and play the sport they love. In nine years, over $9 million have gone into affording these young men an opportunity. Dave Shula has a better idea of what it takes to attain a college scholarship and he talked about it.

DAVE SHULA ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/coach-dave-shula-f85a4

NSU University School has a new head football coach and Traveon Henry is ready to continue elevating the program in Davie. He spoke about the commitment to not only winning on the field, but also getting it done in the classroom.

COACH TRAVEON HENRY ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/coach-traveon-henry-hc-nsu-university-school-2aa1f

After a losing season in 2025, the University of Central Florida football program needed a solid off-season, and head coach Scott Frost and his staff have enjoyed a solid recruiting and transfer portal off-season. Matt Murschel covers UCF and talked about what’s ahead this spring in Orlando.

MATT MURSCHEL ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/matt-murschel-orlando-sentinel-93530

After yet another national championship appearance, Keiser University used this off-season to add to the talent already on board with a huge recruiting class that features some of the top football talent from the Sunshine State. Head Coach Myles Russ talked about this very productive past month.

HEAD COACH MYLES RUSS ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/coach-myles-russ-hc-keiser-university-903f8

Coming off a national championship game appearance, the University of Miami is back in the mix as one of the best football programs in the country – and Gaby Urrutia from Inside The U dropped by to talk about the transfer portal and one of the top recruiting classes the school has had in decades.

GABY URRUTIA ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/gaby-urrutia-inside-the-u-6f6d7

The Rivals.com camp came to Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas High School over the weekend, and the stars certainly came out to showcase their talents. Nick Wilson from USA Today was on hand for the action and was impressed at the talent – at all levels – that showed out during a competitive Sunday.

NICK WILSON ON MONDAY NIGHT. https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/nick-wilson-usa-today-recruiting-58c8b

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..