After a long and productive spring where college coaches across the country headed to Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, several prospects who may not have been fully on the radar had their chance to shine.
With rosters ever changing in the two talent-filled counties, several Class of 2026 seniors had an opportunity to share some of that spotlight that usually comes out of the post season.
With less and less exposure from the larger companies who seem to be consumed with the transfer portal and athletes making the move at the collegiate level, there has been less focus on high school recruiting.
The elite players are still grabbing exposure and are written about often, there is a layer of gifted prospects that are flying beneath the radar until they attend an event where they are interviewed and watched by many who have never seen them play.
With less than two months until the start of the 2025 season, we will continue to bring you players and teams in the two counties – many who are new to the area.
With Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna (1A), Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas (5A), Miami Northwestern (3A), Miami Central (3A), Plantation American Heritage (4A), Miami Norland (4A), Miami Southridge (6A), Miami Christopher Columbus (7A), Miami Palmetto (7A), Pembroke Pines West Broward (6A), and Coconut Creek Monarch (6A) among the top 30 teams in the state this summer, the exposure nationally is impressive.
CLASS OF 2026 NAMES TO KEEP AN EYE ON
As many of the area prospects continue to be talked about nationally as they have made their commitments to the next level, there are several players who haven’t received the attention that they deserve.
Among those gifted players that certainly need to be watched include Miami Edison newcomer Michael Clayton II (QB, 6’4, 200), an Illinois commitment who comes in from Sanford Seminole.
Others who are continuing to climb the ladders are Desmond Johnson (LB, 6’1, 200, Miami Northwestern), Toledo commitment Shmar Akande (6'2, 180, DB, Pembroke Pines West Broward), Tedrick “Bear” Lee (Athlete, 6’0, 185, Miami Christopher Columbus), recent FIU commitment Jayden Ford (RB, 5'6, 155, Miami Central), Ben Gula (OL, 6'4, 285, Weston Cypress Bay), and Naval Academy commitment Phillip Goodrich Jr. (LB, 6'0, 210, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas).
Others who are also getting that well deserved spotlight includes Camaul King (DB, 6'0, 180, Miami True North Classical Academy), Duane Johnson (LB, 6'3, 200, Miami True North Classical Academy), Jermiyah Douglas (DB, 5'9, 175, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas), Recent Orlando Jones transfer Xavier Payne (OL, 6’7, 314, Miami Edison), Dylan Bennett (LB, 5'11, 210, Plantation American Heritage), recent Tampa Bay Tech quarterback transfer Darryon Jones (6'3, 215, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna), recent Mississippi State commit Dylan Steen (OL, 6'5, 295, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas), Santana Carlos (WR, 5'11, 170, Pembroke Pines Flanagan) and Miami Christopher Columbus linebacker Ethan Barosela (6'1, 215).
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..
TAMPA – If you want the true measure of a football program just look at what they do in the off-season.
Plantation American Heritage is the defending 4A state champion for many reasons – and on Thursday one of those reasons took place at the University of South Florida.
Two of the emerging stars of high school football in the state of Florida took part in a prestigious and talent-filled event on a hot, steamy day on Florida’s west coast.
For Class of 2027 offensive prospects Aiden “Big Country” Hartnett (6’3, 290) and Brandon “Big Baby” Adams (6’6, 310), it was all about competing and getting their names out there as they went against some elite defensive prospects.
With head coach Mike Smith and his Patriots getting ready for another challenging season, competing against some of the top football teams in south Florida, Hartnett and Adams made time to come the four plus hours to learn, compete and show why they will both will play a huge role for their team.
“This was the best line camp I’ve been a part of this year,” Hartnett explained. “Two sessions, five hours in shoulder pads and a helmet was the perfect way to showcase what I can do.”
Hartnett, who did well at other camps and combines, is going through the off-season with plenty of eyes on him as over the next year, his name will be finding its way to colleges and universities across the country.
Because he can play multiple positions, coaches like Tyler Hudanick (offensive line coach) had the opportunity to watch him during drills and competition and see his versatility. His work in the classroom (3.8 GPA) will also open doors moving forward.
Adams’ size and work in the classroom (4.7 GPA) will also keep him relevant over the next two years. He had several coaches watching as he won several matchups.
As the season gets ready to unfold and American Heritage looks to repeat, it will be these hot June days that they will look back to when sacrifices are made, and nobody is watching!
SOUTH FLORIDA REPRESENTED IN TAMPA
While Harnett and Adams were getting better on Thursday, other south Florida line prospects were also putting in the work as well. With defensive line coach Kevin Patrick and other assistants watching, many did their thing.
Miami True North Classical Academy Class of 2027 offensive lineman Ronald Riley (6’5, 320) has been attending several things this off-season and was once again working hard at the event.
Miami Gardens Monsignor Pace head coach Anthony Walker and his team ended their week-long caravan with a stop in Tampa, taking part in the 7-on-7 and also sending several players to the “Big Man” camp.
Among those were Class of 2026 players Ismael Carmona (DE), Dejuan Johnson (OT), Zachariah Nozile (DT) and Israel Sulbaran. Class of 2027 players Jeysus Cobas (OL), Calvin Etienne (DT), Quinton McGhee Jr. (OL) and Legend Walters (DE) were also on hand.
The Spartans also brought Class of 2028 players Michael Diaz (OL), Jordan Lewis (DE) and Jaden Parker (OL/DL).
Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna was also taking part in the 7-on-7 but also had R.J. Alphonse (DE), Elias Sturman (OL), Tavano Baptist (OL) and Ekeem Atehortua (OL).
Hialeah Gardens Mater Academy and head coach Tim “Ice” Harris, who won the 7-on-7 event, also brought some elite line prospects as well.
Among those were Class of 2026 players Jaylen Blackwell (OL), Carlos Botella (DE), Nasir Cruz and James Joseph.
Also, 2027 defensive lineman Edwardo Thompson.
The youth took center stage with Class of 2028 linemen Jaiden Thomas, Tyler Garcia and Julian Moncado.
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..
Moments after their spring game wins against Fort Lauderdale Dillard and Plantation, offensive line coach Roberto Montanez gathered his linemen together to discuss their performance.
Over the past few years – as Coconut Creek Monarch has emerged as one of the state’s top teams, it has been the play of the offensive line that started to make an impact.
This is a group that competes year-round and has become close – on and off the field, which is something that Montanez and head coach Calvin Davis have worked hard to achieve.
Known over the years for the position players that the Knights produce, there is now more emphasis on what happens up front, and after last year, and so far this off-season, it has shown as they provided protection for the passing game and opened holes for a quality running game.
“We have worked very hard to make sure that we become a dominating unit up front,” Montanez, a former player at the school, explained. “You look at the success of state playoff teams and champions and you will see an offensive line that makes a huge difference.
Among those linemen who figure to impact this program this coming season as they look to battle in 6A include:
2028 – Yhael Henry, G, 6’0, 300 – 2.75 GPA.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/24040664/Yhael-Henry
2029 – D’Angelo Howard, G, 6’4, 325.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/24099180/Dangelo-Howard
2028 – Jordan Murray, T, 6’2, 290.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/23518672/Jordan-Murray
2027 - Kyle Pearson, G/T, 6’3, 290 – 3.0 GPA.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/20173402/Kyle-Pearson
2027 – Nicholas Soto, G/C, 6’0, 275 – 3.5 GPA.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19516412/Nicholas-Soto
2026 - Sebastian White, T/G, 6’4, 260.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/17875215/Sebastian-White
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..
Once again on Monday night the South Florida High School Sports Radio Show took center stage with seven impressive guests.
Each and every week, the AM 560 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 show, which has run for nearly two decades, has become a popular listen for recruiting fans as well as high school sports purists, focusing on coaches and players in all sports.
Here is a look at the way Monday went:
Coach Anton Graham takes over as head coach at Southwest Miami and he talked about the Eagles.
COACH ANTON GRAHAM ON MONDAY NIGHT: https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/head-coach-anton-graham-southwest-miami-senior-high-school-c7eef
Miami Central senior defensive end Otis Guyton has stepped up on the football field and in the classroom for the Rockets. He talked about being a leader.
OTIS GUYTON ON MONDAY NIGHT: https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/otis-guyton-defensive-end-miami-central-high-school-ae199
Veteran football coach Art Taylor talked about teaching and developing the talent at Cooper City as he gets his Cowboys ready for another season.
COACH ART TAYLOR ON MONDAY NIGHT: https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/head-coach-art-taylor-cooper-city-high-school-03e75
Gaby Urrutia has been busy these springs and into the summer covering the University of Miami for 247 Sports and InsideTheU.com.
GABY URRUTIA ON MONDAY NIGHT: https://www.audacy.com/podcast/south-florida-high-school-sports-radio-5af98/episodes/247-hurricanes-gaby-urrutia-fd44c
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..
The one thing that casual football fans will never understand is from January through July, the recruiting process is perhaps busier than any other time of year.
Because the season is reserved for Thursday and Friday where games take center stage, many college coaches do not have the time to keep an ear close to what is happening at high schools across the country. They are trying to run their own programs.
With camps, combines, 7-on-7 events and spring football, the seven month “off-season” provides that forum the athletes need to turn heads and eventually get those offers.
As we are now two weeks into the summer, several talented prospects throughout Miami-Dade and Broward are getting the chance to thrust themselves on the radar – while others continue to enhance what many have already watched.
No matter what class it is, the prospects are out there in the hot sun at college campuses trying to get an advantage over the competition in front of the very college coaches that need to impress.
Once again, this summer, we are fortunate to be at the center of these events, watching and promoting the talent live and not from sitting behind a computer or listening to what others have to say.
As we continue to do year-round, shining the spotlight and promoting these gifted young men is what gives us a chance to assist in this competitive process.
Today, we bring you five more #305 and #954 talent that continues to make an impression:
2026 – Terrell Evans Jr., DE, 6’5, 225, Hialeah. Ever since his freshman season, here is a prospect that everyone was watching. He has size, quickness, athleticism and is always around the ball. Head Coach Tony Smith and the Thoroughbreds have something very special in this quality talent who continues to work hard and show plenty of leadership – which this program will need this coming season. Offered by Wofford, but is being looked at by a number of colleges who see some great things ahead.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/20054933/Terrell-Evans
2026 – Brandin Mincey, QB, 6’1, 170, Pembroke Pines West Broward. For those who follow this game remember the impact he made back as far as his freshman season at Miami Jackson. Makes the move north and he has been the talk of south Florida football so far this off-season. His ability to throw the ball with accuracy, run when needed and display leadership has put him in a position where he is one of the top prospects in the class for head coach Brian McCartney’s Bobcats.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/18153421/Brandin-Mincy
2026 – Xavier Payne, OL, 6’7, 314, Miami Edison. After playing a key role last season for Orlando Jones, who advanced to the 4A state title game, this FSU commitment makes the move south to play for head coach Luther Campbell and the improving Red Raiders in Class 1A. This is a very talented lineman who not only leads the way up front for a running game but also continues to improve his blocking skills. In addition to what he does on the football field, he also gets it done in the classroom (3.5 GPA) as well. Saw him for the first time during his sophomore season and he was impressive back then.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/18401191/676f6457a232c3c8c26af8cb
2026 – Noah Sidan, PK/P, 5’11, 175, Hollywood Chaminade-Madonna. Over the past two years he has emerged as one of the best kicking specialists in the state – with a strong and accurate leg and has become a weapon that comes through when needed – like he did two years ago as a sophomore at Miami Norland, beating rival Miami Central twice. Last year in leading the Lions to yet another state title, he was dependable and gave the team a huge lift with his strong leg. Another student/athlete who also gets it done in the classroom, sporting a 4.0 GPA in the classroom for veteran head coach Dameon Jones and his national powerhouse.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/19971498/Noah-Sidan
2026 – Michael Smarts, DE, 6’5, 230, Pembroke Pines Flanagan. A year ago as a junior at Davie Nova High, very few – of anyone – knew who he was, but that changed when he started to make an impact for the Titans and eventually turned heads at camps and combines in front of recruiting analysts who discovered that he is indeed one of the best in the class. Quick, smart and instinctive are three things that thrust him into the spotlight. Like Chaminade-Madonna standout Derrick Cooper last year, he is a perfect example that you need to attend games to find prospects who have been hidden. Makes the move to play his final season for the Falcons. Also a 3.6 student in the classroom.
TAPE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/22768076/Michael-Smarts
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..