After decades and decades of watching, promoting and evaluating talent throughout the country, state and in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, we have found that when you watch talent play instead of relying on seeing film only, you have a better grasp of what athletes can do – on and off the playing field.
Throughout the course of a year, we have the pleasure of attending numerous games, practices, camps, combines and seeing athletes in different arenas.
Fresh off the 2025 NFL Draft, spring has started at high schools across the state of Florida, and while the focus is on the rising senior (2026) class, underclassmen are also receiving plenty of attention from the college coaches as well as recruiting services and the media.
We are in different times when it comes to recruiting, and while the actual game of football has not changed, the way colleges and universities evaluate the prospects has certainly taken several twists and turns.
Understanding that the transfer portal is always going to be in play, choosing the student/athlete that fits your program is perhaps the most important thing that college coaches must realize.
Character has always been important, but now when you are looking at talent, you have to go beyond 40 times and how many tackles they make and truly get to know the individual, and that you simply cannot do by sitting in front of a computer.
Talking to prospects and understanding what they are all about – away from football can make a huge difference and often means everything when they get to the next level.
Today, we take a look at five Class of 2027 prospects that have started to make their way on to the radar – and will have the chance for colleges to see many for the first time.
Damian Fisher, DL, 5’10, 225, Homestead. The first thing you notice about this impressive athlete is the way he gets off the ball and has a motor that never stops. While he isn’t the largest player on the field, he is tough and will follow up plays to the end. He plays low and it gives him a chance to be a huge factor as a run stopper. He is versatile enough to play inside, edge and nose tackle in the middle. As soon as the ball is snapped, he focuses on getting a sack, which is part of his game that continues to elevate.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19651335/Damian-Fisher
Ji’Koi Highsmith, OLB/DE, 6’2, 200, Southwest Ranches Archbishop McCarthy – 4.8 GPA. 1040 SAT. 23 PACT. Easily one of the fastest-rising prospects in the class. Here is a versatile defensive talent that is quick off the ball and reads plays extremely well. He is a very smart young man who continues to pick up more and more about his position and the game by attending off-season events as well as his leadership for the Mavericks.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/20357665/672e9bd1eb3da2ca23324f18
James Klaiss Jr., WR, 6’1, 165, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna – 3.6 GPA. On a program that is loaded at the receiver position, here is someone that continues to use the off-season to get his reps and become more comfortable with getting on the football field more for the nationally-rated Lions over the next two years. Showcased his skills and got plenty of playing time on the junior varsity squad. This is someone to keep an eye on as he matures and continues to learn more about the game and position(s) he plays.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19530847/James-Klaiss-jr
Jayden Miller, QB, 6’0, 195, Fort Lauderdale NSU University School – 3.5 GPA. With so much elite rising talent at the quarterback position throughout Florida and in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, here is someone that is coming off a season in which he made a huge impact for the Sharks, taking them to the Sunshine State Athletic Association title game against Oviedo The Master’s Academy. Named to the first team all-state with huge numbers in his young career (3,145 yards and 26 touchdowns). Has very good arm strength and accuracy and his improvement against some top programs has certainly thrusted him into the spotlight and in the conversation as one of the best in his class. This program is expecting some major things this coming season.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19271336/Jayden-Miller
Edwardo Thompson, DL, 6’1, 240, Hialeah Gardens Mater Academy. Makes his way over from Miami Booker T. Washington as one of the top defensive line prospects in the state of Florida. Here is a very talented player that combines strength, quickness and athletic ability, and as he continues to learn the position technically, watch out! While his objective is to get to the passer, do not underestimate his skills as a run stopper. This is one of those players that everyone needs to keep an eye on over the next two seasons as he becomes a leader and a major producer.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19747559/Edwardo-Thompson
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FORT LAUDERDALE – After a 9-3 season and a heart-breaking state playoff loss to eventual 4A state champion Plantation American Heritage, the Dillard Panthers kicked off the spring in style this past weekend.
Head Coach Demitris Mincey and his football team headed to the third annual Battle 4 Broward 7-on-7 event with plenty at stake.
Even though they went 3-0 in the opening round of the tournament on Saturday at Hollywood McArthur, there were many who doubted whether this team could come back Sunday and in their third straight “954” title.
With powers such as Delray Beach Atlantic, West Boca Raton, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna, Miami Norland, West Broward and over 30 other Miami-Dade, Palm Beach and Broward County programs, the Panthers came to work, and by the time the final game rolled around against Atlantic, this team was primed to come from behind and take home a third straight title.
Among those players who made an impact for this team included rising senior quarterback Jayden Chico, who comes in for his final year from Plantation.
Chico was MVP of the tournament with 20 touchdowns and one interception as Dillard came from behind in all four victories.
In addition, there were impressive 8th grade defensive back Jamar Brinson, two-way standout Dorian Wildgoose, and defensive back Zamari “Pop” Marquez.
THE PANTHERS ARE A DEEP TEAM
In addition to those players who led the way, there were others who grabbed the spotlight over the two days:
The rising seniors (2026) included Andrew Stickney (QB), Anthony Carey Jr. (RB), Devin Simmons (DB), Kenny Dalvirmar (LB), Tyophi Clay (WR), Amari Brutus (DB), Pierce Kinch-Young (WR/TE), Timothy Russley (CB), Demitris Mincey Jr. (Athlete), Sidney “Sid” Newkirt Jr. (LB), Tyler Coney (WR), Cordell Coffey (WR), Latavius Taylor (RB), and Quyis Daley (LB/FB).
Rising juniors (2027) also had some impressive players with Kyle Brown (WR), Tederic Oatman (Safety), Ja’Corey Rhoden (DB), Ja’Rodd Rhoden (DB), Alexander Pinder (RB), O’Tavian Tucker (DB), and Jovensky Lully (WR).
Two rising sophomores (2028) also made an impact – with Sacari Jordan (DB) and Marcus Powell (DB), and Class of 2029 rising freshman Lamech Rucker (QB).
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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..
As the winter off-season came to an end over the weekend to give way to spring football in south Florida, the third annual Battle 4 Broward 7-on-7 event took place at Coral Glades High School in Coral Springs, McArthur High School in Hollywood and at Cardinal Gibbons in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday and for the championships on Sunday.
Over schools from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties took part in an event that would crown two different championships when play ended late Sunday afternoon.
Miami Carol City came back from a 1-2 start on Saturday to win the “754” crown – while for the third straight year, the Fort Lauderdale Dillard Panthers took home the “954” team title.
Several elite prospects filled the fields over the two days – with established prospects getting much of the attention as they showcased their many skills that will surface this off-season and into 2025.
There were also some players that may not be household names by prospects that are on the rise and will certainly help their programs this season.
2027 – Santana Blount, 5’9, 155, Miami Carol City. One of the fast-rising slot prospects in south Florida. Someone who is tough to cover, and while he doesn’t have Tutu Atwell speed, he certainly has a game that is similar to the Los Angeles Rams’ standout. At the 7-on-7 tournament, he proved to be sure handed and elite when it came to running pass patterns. Will be one of many players the Chiefs used to capture the “754” title this past weekend.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/22468691/Santana-Blount
2026 – Robert Ortega, RB, 5’6, 175, Hollywood McArthur – 4.1 GPA. Since he was an 8th grader at Hollywood Avant Garde Academy, he has shown that he is a back that is tough, quick and versatile. He not only runs the ball, but catches and is physical when it comes to blocking and adding that extra dimension to his game. While being the son of a coach is never easy, he moves over from Davie Western to play for the Mustangs this coming season. Is headed to the Ivy League next year – most likely choosing Brown University in Rhode Island.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/18274649/677f01b3002acf25bc553d15
2026 – Anton Smith, WR, 5’6, 155, Miami Killian. One of the impact prospects heads down south to play for the Cougars and after making a lasting impression at Miami Booker T. Washington. He can do it all as a receiver and on special teams – and if needed – can get behind center and play quarterback as well. One of the under-the-radar student/athletes who gets it done in the classroom as well. Keep an eye on his play this coming season.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/18032820/Anton-Smith
2027 – Joshua Sylvain, WR, 6’3, 180, Pembroke Pines Charter. While there were a number of gifted prospects during the two days of the event, very few who attended knew much about this impressive young man, who is about to have a breakout season. While he has things to work on, his size and ability to go up and get balls are things that will continue to thrust himself into the spotlight. In addition to catching passes, he is learning more about playing the position, and this spring college coaches who watch him play will like the fact that he is willing to roll up his sleeves and put in the work for the Jaguars.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19740803/Joshua-Sylvain
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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..
FORT LAUDERDALE - When Miami Carol City finished Pool Play on Saturday, the Chiefs were 1-2, heading into Sunday’s single elimination at Cardinal Gibbons High School.
Because of those close losses on the opening day of the 3rd Annual Battle 4 Broward referee training and 7-on-7 event, head coach George Stubbs team would have to win four times on Sunday to capture the 754 title. Mission accomplished.
While Fort Lauderdale Dillard was taking down Palm Beach power Delray Beach Atlantic to win the 954 title, the Chiefs were busy on Sunday working on their own title.
From the first game win against Coconut Creek to the title game against Plantation, the Chiefs, who will be a force in 2A in 2025, did what they had to and held their trophy high.
Among the top players over the two days included defensive standouts such as Class of 2026 players Rodarion Jones (DB), Thomas Jones (DB, 2 interceptions), Gerald Jones (DB), and linebacker Daishaun Dorsett.
There were also 2027 stars like Jashon Chaneton (DB, 2 interceptions), Jerryson Jean-Baptiste (DB), Jeremiah Xavier (DB), Miquan Stubbs (DB), Marquise Knighton (DB), and linebackers Keith Logan and Daniko Hunt.
Class of 2028 rising sophomores Cartier Morrell (DB) and Cornelius Offord (DB) made a major contribution as well.
THE OFFENSE SHOWS PLENTY OF FIREPOWER
The Chiefs also made an impression over the two days with rising seniors (2026) Javarius Robinson (QB), big play receiver Santiago Villaman, David James (WR), David Baker (WR), and receiver Kevin Walker.
Class of 2027 star slot receiver Santana Blount is one of the best in south Florida. Receiver Rolaun Spain and running back Claude Dauphin are also special.
Class of 2028 prospects Russell Britton (QB), Ke’onte Jackson (WR), and receiver Jacques Majors will be huge for the Chiefs this spring and into the summer.
MIAMI-DADE/BROWARD INFORMATION YEAR-ROUND. https://larryblustein.com/
MIAMI-DADE, BROWARD TRANSFERS? WE HAVE THEM FOR YOU. https://larryblustein.com/news/transfer-season-off-to-a-huge-start-in-miami-dade-broward
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..
By Dave Brousseau - BCAA Writer
POMPANO BEACH – Championship teams continuously find ways to win when it counts most.
The Coral Springs Charter High softball team apparently owns the blueprint when it comes to the BCAA Big 8 tournament.
Led by Heather Roberston, Gio Gurgel and Courtney Wahlbrink combination of six RBI, the Panthers rolled to a 9-4 victory over Western last Wednesday for the team’s third consecutive Big 8 title at Pompano Beach Community Park.
It was the Panthers (19-3) fifth Big 8 title in seven attempts.
“[Western] is a seasoned team and three games in a row is tough on pitching staffs,” said Coral Springs Charter coach Mark Montimurro. “They have a lot of good hitters, and we felt they would put a lot of balls in play.
They put some runs on the board, but we did enough to come out with trophy.
Charter has defeated Western seven consecutive games by a combined 62-11 runs, dating back to 2019. They finished the tournament, by outscoring their three opponents 26-7.
“Our team has moxie and grit and everybody in the county thought we’d be way down because we lost a lot of players. They stepped up and played up to their level. With our pitching we can play with anybody.”
Charter took an early 5-0 lead keyed by Roberston’s fourth home run in five at bats. She was named the tournament MVP with four homers and 10 RBI.
“I honestly wasn’t expecting it,” said Robertson. “I was looking for some hits and putting pieces together for the team. I wasn’t expecting the home runs. I was just swinging to swing.
Today I came out hot and was ready to play hitting a home run in my first at bat.”
The Wildcats didn’t cave, rallying for four runs between the third and fifth innings, closing to within 5-4 of the lead.
Analie Diaz, Kennedy Butter and Emma Konieczny had consecutive RBI singles in the top the third inning and Butter added another RBI singles in the fifth inning.
“It’s frustrating, but there’s a silver lining and that’s that we fought to the end,” said Western coach John Bradshaw. “I was super proud of the girls fighting to the end. Mark’s teams never quit and he’s got us three years in a row.”
The Panthers seized the Wildcats (15-5-1) comeback bid in the bottom of the sixth inning.
Addi Michel had an RBI bunt single, which was followed by an RBI single to left field by Gurgel and a two-RBI double to left by Walbrink a five-run advantage.
“We can up too flat, but we did bring it up throughout the game,” said Gurgel. “When our pitching and hitting come up big, we win,”
District play begins this week with Coral Springs Charter and Western as No.1 seeds.
Contact Dave Brousseau at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.