The Metro East high school football scene is buzzing as analysts have compiled a list of 50 players who are expected to shape the 2026 season. The selections, announced recently, are based on 2025 performance, early recruiting interest and projected impact on upcoming campaigns.
Quarterbacks and Offensive Leaders
Among the standout quarterbacks, Luke Clouser appears on the watch list as a CM quarterback. Owen Kehrer, a junior from Breese Central, impressed with 2,147 passing yards and 27 touchdowns last year, while also adding a strong rushing threat. Caiden Capell, a senior from Belleville West, split his time between quarterback and defensive back, throwing for 900 yards and 12 scores while also contributing 680 rushing yards.
The running back corps features Steven Brown, a 5‑foot‑9 senior from Althoff who topped his team with 1,242 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. Jordan Wright, a 6‑foot‑3, 278‑pound offensive lineman from the same school, is expected to open lanes for Brown’s ground game. Donald Collier Jr., a versatile athlete from Cahokia, contributed 759 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, earning all‑state recognition.
Receivers, Defenders and Standout Recruits
At the receiving end, Cary Willis, a 6‑foot senior from Belleville East, caught a team‑high 58 passes for 655 yards and six touchdowns, while also anchoring the secondary. James Johnson, a 6‑foot‑3 safety committed to Cincinnati, added 55 receptions for 783 yards and contributed 38 tackles with five interceptions. Defensive standouts include Killian Rauch, a 6‑foot senior from Belleville West who logged 53 tackles, an interception and a fumble recovery.
Logan Thompson, a 6‑foot cornerback from Belleville East, is a four‑star recruit and the state’s No. 4 overall prospect, drawing significant attention from college programs. His blend of size, speed and ball‑hawking skills positions him as one of the most highly anticipated prospects for the upcoming season.
The breadth of talent across the region suggests that teams will rely heavily on these players for leadership and performance. Their diverse skill sets, from dual‑position versatility to elite recruiting rankings, set the stage for a competitive 2026 season that could see several of these athletes become household names.