Written by: Drew Johnson (@RealNews102)
Welcome to The Platform Rankings List, the new go-to source for current and comprehensive high school football rankings. We’re dedicated to producing up-to-date lists across various position groups and graduating classes, ensuring you get the latest insights on rising stars and under-the-radar studs. We’re kicking things off with our inaugural rankings of the top 2026 defensive backs in Florida and Texas. Stay tuned as we continue to bring you the best in high school football rankings and analysis.
How we list:
- In-Person Evaluation
- Film Evaluations
- Stats/Player Impact/Upside
Top 10 2026 DB Watch List – Florida
Jaelen Waters | DB | Class of 2026 | Armwood | @Jaelen_waters9
Committed: University of Florida
A couple of years ago, I established that Waters would be a big-time DB prospect at the next level. He recently made a big-time move and committed to the Florida Gators. The rising junior has provided solid coverage against tough squads this season and even recorded some game-changing interceptions/pass breakups.
Kaiden Hall | S | 2026 | Milton | @_kaidenhall3
Offers: FSU, Georgia, Alabama, & more
Another premier rising North Florida prospect has earned his name on the list after a big-time offer from FSU this month. He also earned a four-star ranking after a productive sophomore season where he made strides on both sides of the ball. Keep an eye on this kid as he will see an uptick in college interest.
Xavier Lherisse | ATH | 2026 | Eau Gallie | @XavierXEL11
Offers: Alabama, Florida, USC, & more
What a season for the rising three-sport athlete which has him ranked as a four-star prospect. This kid is just getting started but has the tools to have a real deal impact at the next level. Lherisse received a big-time offseason offer from Notre Dame that will help with his overall recruitment. Watch out for Lherisse to see an uptick in college interest heading into the spring.
Chauncey Kennon | DB | 2026 | Booker | @C3Callme
Offers: Florida, FSU, UCF, & more
Kennon has developed into a solid four-star product as a 6-3 versatile athlete with plenty upside for the next level. With recent offers from the likes of Georgia, and Michigan, Kennon has stamped himself in the class of 2026 amongst a gauntlet of talented names on the list. He’s set for a huge year with Booker HS where he can make big-time plays on both sides of the ball. When breaking down his game, Kennon looks great in coverage because of his speed and fluid feet/hip movement. Think he will be impressive at the next level.
Ayden Pouncey | DB | 2026 | Winter Park | @AydenPouncey
Offers: FSU, UCF, Oregon, & more
Pouncey was one of the first DB prospects that caught my eye at the Elite Defensive Back Showcase last year because of his long frame. He had a solid performance at the off-season showcase and has flashed his P5 abilities throughout the season. The sophomore displays a good ability to flip his hips while using body control to drive through the ball to disrupt passes. Have to get my eyes on him when it’s time to compete against other talented receivers but his potential upside is clear as day.
Demetres Samuel Jr | DB | 2026 | Heritage | @demetres_jr
Committed: Syracuse University
The 2026 rising Heritage product made noise with his Syracuse commit back in March. He’s a highly coveted athlete and ranked in the top 100 nationally with a 6-2, 190 pound frame. When looking at his film, Samuel has displayed excellent technique and ball hawking skills. Don’t sleep on his ability to make things happen with the ball in his hands at the prep level rather it’s at wideout or special teams. Big-time recruit with a huge upside.
Jordan Crutchfield | DB | 2026 | Westwood Academy | @JayyCrutchfield
Offers: Florida, FSU, Cincinnati, & more
This kid is hands down the real deal. I watched him lock up multiple receivers and earn a camp offer from Cincinnati after a great day in coverage. Good size at 6-3, 198 pounds with plenty of time for even more growth and development.
Jaydin Broadnax | DB | 2026 | West Boca | @jbroadnax_5
Offers: Auburn, FSU, Penn State, & more
When you’re 6-3, athletic, with ball hawk abilities, college coaches start to pay attention. Media outlets as well as Broadnax was ranked a four-star defensive back prospect. The off-season has been a busy period for Broadnax who has received recent offers from UCF, Nebraska, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Important spring period for the young man who will look to continue building on generated momentum.
Brody Jennings | DB | 2026 | Mandarin | @SpidermanJ3
Offers: Arkansas, Florida, Ole Miss, & more
Recent offers from the likes of Kentucky, Miami, and Texas A&M have a lot of eyes on Jennings and his potential upside at the defensive back position. He’s gotten some love from college coaches since last year but this will be a productive spring period to show he has the skills and frame to make an impact at the college level.
Dariyon Gordon | DB | Class of 2026 | Ocoee | @dariyon_gordon
Recent offers: Georgia, FSU, Georgia State
The class of 2026 continues to produce DOGs as Dariyon Gordon adds to a long list of potential P4 prospects. He put on a decent show this offseason and has some of the best man coverage skills in the area. He has a good frame at 6-1 but it’s the mentality to win and compete that will separate him in the long run.
DJ Williams | DB | 2026 | Carrollwood Day | @RTR__DJ
Offers: FSU, Georgia, Michigan, & more
A productive sophomore season for Williams has earned him a four-star ranking. Combine the 6-2, 170-pound frame and you have a decent athlete that college coaches are eager to get eyes on. He received a few big-time offers from Notre Dame, Oklahoma, and Texas A&M. Look out for a notable fall season that’ll keep the interest around Williams’ upside.
