Preseason forecasts reshape expectations for El Paso districts
Dave Campbell's Texas Football magazine has released its annual preseason predictions for the El Paso high school football landscape, outlining which programs are slated to dominate each district and which newcomers could surprise. The projections span multiple classifications, from 6A through 3A, and incorporate returning star athletes, offensive accolades and defensive anchors.
In District 1-6A, Eastwood is projected to claim the title, bolstered by standout talents Kington Jeffries and Zacary Adams. Pebble Hills is expected to finish second, followed by a cluster of rivals including Franklin, Eastlake, Montwood, Coronado and Socorro, setting the stage for a tightly contested race.
District 1-5A Division 1 sees El Dorado favored to win, anchored by quarterback Brycen Booth and defensive tackle Jose Bustamante. The team will face stiff competition from Americas, which is slated to finish second and features preseason Offensive MVP Maurice Edwards.
Del Valle enters District 1-5A Division 2 as the preseason champion, with Joel Vizcarra and Didrick Acosta leading a strong supporting cast. Chapin is projected to finish second in the same division, highlighted by Corwon Martin, the preseason Offensive MVP for that group.
Andress is favored to win District 1-4A Division 1, with Jamari Milton and Elijah Cooper spearheading the offense. The program has also been labeled a 2026 sleeper team, and Milton is touted as Texas' best-kept secret, suggesting a potentially breakout season.
Irvin is projected to capture District 1-4A Division 2, driven by defensive linemen Kane Pittman and Alex Cardenas. In the same division, Clint is expected to finish second, trailing Mountain View, Fabens and Bowie.
Anthony is positioned to finish sixth in District 3-3A Division 2, trailing Coahoma, San Angelo Grape Creek, Crane, Alpine and Stanton, indicating a deep field of contenders in that classification.
Pebble Hills tight end Noah Tarrant has earned recognition among Texas' top recruits, boasting 24 college offers and drawing attention for his athletic upside.
Eastlake head coach JB Frontz has been named among the 40 coaches under 40 to watch in Texas, reflecting the growing influence of young leadership across the region.