The 18U division at DR7 DFW was a showcase of top talent and fierce competition during pool play on Saturday. Throughout the event, standout performances lit up the field as players demonstrated elite athleticism, sharp skills, and game-changing plays on both offense and defense. In a weekend filled with dynamic moments and impressive displays of ability, several athletes emerged as the ones to watch. The mission and goal of The Platform is to #ExposeTheUnexposed and provide adequate coverage of athletes around the country giving them exposure. Here, we spotlight several standouts that made the 18U division one of the highlights of DR7 DFW during pool play.
Derrick Martin | Athlete | Class of 2026 | Lewisville High School | @dj3_martin
Derrick Martin is a true playmaker whose versatility shines on both sides of the ball. As a defensive back, his speed allows him to cover ground quickly, while his great vision and ball skills make him a formidable presence in the secondary. On offense, he stands out as a gifted receiver with elite route-running ability, seamlessly transitioning between roles. His interception during pool play perfectly showcased the full spectrum of his talents. Last season, as a key cog for Lewisville, Martin amassed 15 total touchdowns and 1,243 all-purpose yards—a performance that has drawn interest from top programs including SMU, Houston, Arkansas, Ole Miss, North Texas, and Baylor, among others.
Jace Daniels | Defensive Back | Class of 2026 | Arlington Martin High School | @JxceDaniels
Jace Daniels was a standout during pool play for Ignite Athletics. At 6-foot-1 and 180 pounds, Daniels combines excellent length with clean footwork and superb field vision, enabling him to read plays and close out on receivers with impressive speed. His skill set was on full display as he recorded an interception and several pass breakups, disrupting opposing offenses and showcasing his potential. With his blend of athleticism and smart play, Daniels is a prospect in the DFW area well worth keeping an eye on.
Mackylan Dixon | Athlete | Class of 2026 | Idabel High School (Ok.) | @MackylanDixon
Mackylan Dixon is an all-around talent whose explosive play and versatility made him a standout for C4 during pool play. Quick in space with an exceptional ability to cut, change directions, and explode past defenders, Dixon’s strong hands and athleticism set him apart on offense. As a true two-way player, he made several key plays for his team on Saturday. Last fall for Idabel he excelled on both sides of the ball, contributing 43 carries for 279 yards and four touchdowns, along with 231 receiving yards and three touchdowns. On the defensive side, he recorded 44 tackles and an interception during the regular season, showcasing his impact on both ends of the field. A player in the state of Oklahoma who should attract more attention from colleges, Dixon is one to watch this off season.
Luke Wrublesky | Safety | Class of 2026 | Lakeside High School (Ark.) | @lukewrub
Luke Wrublesky moves fluidly in space, combining a stout, compact build with impressive agility and strength at the point of attack. Standing 6-foot tall and weighing 190 pounds, Wrublesky made his mark during pool play for True Buzz with several crucial pass breakups. He had an outstanding junior season at Lakeside, registering 115 tackles—70 of them solo—demonstrating his relentless pursuit and ability to shut down opponents. Adding to his versatile skill set, Wrublesky has also contributed on offense with 2 touchdowns, showcasing his all-around playmaking ability. With such a dynamic performance for True Buzz on Saturday, Luke Wrublesky is undoubtedly a safety to get eyes on in the state of Arkansas this upcoming season.
Dawson McFadin | Tight End | Class of 2026 | Conway High School (Ark.) | @Dawsonmcfadin42
Dawson McFadin was impressive during pool play with his smooth, polished route running and reliable hands. With a larger catch radius and a keen ability to find open holes in the defense, he consistently emerged as a top target for True Buzz. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 218 pounds, his long, lean frame and excellent body control allow him to showcase remarkable athleticism after the catch. Hailing from Conway, Arkansas, McFadin is a prospect to keep an eye on as he continues to elevate his game.
Lucas Sawyer | Quarterback | Class of 2026 | Richardson High School (Tx.) | @Lucassawyer_
Lucas Sawyer can spin it!! With impressive arm strength, he skillfully fits the football into tight coverage windows, he has the skill set to spray the entire route tree with pinpoint accuracy and his ability to put the ball on his receivers in rhythm were traits that stood out in his game. His deep ball exhibits a great touch, allowing him to connect downfield with accuracy. Sawyer had full command of the Ignite Athletics offense, which enabled them to score at will during pool play. He is QB prospect that college programs should get eyes on heading into his senior season.