The 2026 high school football season in Sarasota and Manatee counties is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated in recent memory. With the Florida High School Athletic Association's new Open Division policy set to reshape competition, traditional powerhouses and rising programs alike are preparing for a schedule that could pit the best teams against each other from the outset.
Reigning Champions and Their Outlook
Cardinal Mooney, the defending champion, enters the season as a clear favorite. The team brings back a wealth of experience, including senior quarterback Davin Davidson, who threw for 2,360 yards, 23 touchdowns and six interceptions last year. Alongside him, running back Connail Jackson, the 2025 Offensive Player of the Year, and linebacker Travion Lester, who amassed 96 tackles and 12 sacks, give the squad a potent mix of talent. Transfers such as Jackson Snelling and Kaleb Exume add depth, while the coaching staff hopes to build on a championship pedigree.
Manatee’s Rebuilding Effort
Manatee High School is looking to rebound from a disappointing previous campaign. The program has installed Nolan Downes, a transfer from IMG Academy, as its new quarterback. Downes arrives with 15 college offers and is expected to revitalize the offense. In addition, the team has bolstered its roster with new offensive pieces, aiming to exceed expectations and contend for a playoff run.
Venice’s Title Ambitions
Venice High School returns a core group of playmakers, including wide receiver Tyree Mannings Jr., a four‑star junior who boasts 23 scholarship offers and ranks among the nation's top receivers. The team's defense also features standout talent, and coaches believe the combination of experience and new additions positions them to chase another state title.
Coaching Changes and Emerging Talent
Parrish Community High School announced the hiring of Kody McNear as its new head coach, a move that could shift the competitive balance in the region. Meanwhile, several young prospects are drawing attention, among them Sarasota’s Hudson West, Manatee’s Nolan Downes, and Cardinal Mooney’s Amarian McRae, all of whom are projected to attract interest from major college programs.
The broader landscape includes Sarasota High School, which could notch its first winning season since 2021, driven by junior quarterback Hudson West. Across the county, the mix of seasoned veterans, dynamic transfers, and fresh coaching directions promises a season filled with dramatic matchups and breakout performances.