Key Transfers Shaping the Local Landscape
The 2026 high school football season in the Peoria area is already generating buzz as a wave of talented transfers prepares to make their mark on the field.
Jakoby Johnson, a 6‑foot‑3, 255‑pound junior two‑way lineman, is leaving Brimfield for Farmington. He will step in to replace offensive linemen lost to graduation, bringing a rare combination of size and versatility to the front line.
Mason Phillips, a 6‑foot‑3, 235‑pound senior from Washington, is heading to Metamora. Coaches expect him to contribute on both sides of the ball, adding depth to the offensive line while also bolstering the defense.
Cole Merna, a 6‑foot‑1, 190‑pound senior, is moving from Richwoods to Peoria High. Last season he helped limit opponents to just 14 points, and his arrival is expected to reinforce the defense with his speed and tackling ability.
Jacob Merna, a 5‑foot‑11, 175‑pound senior, will wear two hats for Peoria High, playing both linebacker and running back. His dual‑role skill set aims to add extra punch to the team's central defense and offensive backfield.
Eli O’Donnell, a 6‑foot, 160‑pound senior, is battling to replace Breon Greene — a former All‑Area quarterback — in the Peoria High backfield. The competition promises a fresh offensive dynamic as the team looks to fill the void left by Greene's departure.
Jeeter Schweigert, a 5‑foot‑11, 175‑pound senior transferring from Washington to Metamora, brings prior experience to the quarterback race. He will vie for the starting role alongside Christian Nelson, adding a layer of competition that could sharpen the offense.