The Gadsden Quarterback Surge
The Alabama high school football season is slated to open around August 20, with most squads taking the field on August 21 or the following week, while the state championships will make their debut in Mobile from December 2‑5, adding a new spotlight to the postseason.
Among the standouts, Brody Blevins of Westbrook Christian burst onto the scene last year with 36 total touchdowns, a performance that has already attracted high‑profile recruiting interest.
Mason McAteer from Collinsville delivered almost 4,000 yards and 43 touchdowns, positioning him as one of the most prolific passers in recent memory.
Sam Sollie of Gadsden City threw for 1,294 yards and 13 scores while earning offers from several Division I programs, underscoring his dual‑threat potential.
Mac Long, now at Plainview, posted 2,023 yards and 23 touchdowns last season, continuing a trajectory that has made him a favorite in local scouting reports.
Alec Ashley from Sand Rock added 2,352 yards and 28 touchdowns, while Cole Austin of Piedmont contributed 1,800 yards and 26 scores, each reinforcing the depth of talent in the region.
Cutter Mays of Pisgah shattered expectations with 2,567 yards and 35 touchdowns, a combination that has drawn praise from coaches across the state.
Jon Beck Wade of Geraldine balanced a rushing attack of 1,382 yards and 29 touchdowns with 1,025 passing yards and 10 scores, illustrating a rare versatility for a high school quarterback.
Additional names on the radar include Beau Bennett, Adam Griffith, Brodi Mass, Jayman Mintz, Dean Morgan, Christian Morris and Brady Ruark, each bringing distinctive skill sets that could reshape offensive schemes.
The convergence of early‑season games, the unprecedented Mobile championship schedule, and the sheer volume of talent suggests that the 2026 campaign will be defined by these quarterbacks' performances, potentially influencing college recruitments and future all‑state selections.