The Cincinnati area is buzzing as the new high school football season approaches, and among the many storylines the spotlight is falling on the region's most dynamic pass catchers and tight ends.
Charles Alexander Jr., a 6‑foot‑3 senior standing 190 pounds, has already locked in a commitment to Iowa State after a brief stint with Louisville, and his size and route running have made him a favorite among analysts.
Junior Cordell Ball, also measuring 6‑foot‑3, burst onto the scene last year with 56 receptions for 1,017 yards and nine touchdowns, a performance that has kept him firmly in the conversation for top honors.
A deep talent pool
Other standouts include Colten Barger, who helped Lloyd Memorial reach a 13‑1 record and the state semifinals, Noah Bilinski, a first‑team all‑league selection who amassed 84 catches for 1,082 yards and nine scores, and Tyler Fryman, who pledged to Kentucky in both football and baseball after posting 62 catches for 1,320 yards and 23 touchdowns.
Thomas Huckleby added 48 receptions for 881 yards and nine touchdowns, while Lorenzo McMullen, a four‑star recruit with offers from Cincinnati, Florida, Notre Dame, Oregon and Penn State, brings a national profile to the mix.
Christian Roether led Harrison with 30 catches for 500 yards and 11 touchdowns, Chase Walpole contributed 43 catches for 615 yards and three scores in helping Elder to a 12‑1 season, and Tysin Weaver topped Anderson with 91 receptions for 1,375 yards and 20 touchdowns, guiding his team to the Division II state final.
The commitments to schools such as Iowa State, Louisville, Kentucky and Grand Valley State illustrate a broader trend of top talent staying close to home while eyeing Power Five programs like Florida, Notre Dame, Oregon and Penn State.
Fans can now vote for their favorite player in an online poll, a gesture that underscores the community's deep engagement with the sport.