Upstate South Carolina's 2026 Junior Class Emerges
The 2026 high school football season in the Upstate is already generating buzz, as a new wave of juniors climbs the national radar. Rankings from 247Sports place ten players from the Greenville‑Spartanburg‑Anderson corridor among the most coveted prospects, each drawing a cascade of power‑conference offers before their senior year.
Leading the pack is Christian Scott‑Webb, a defensive lineman whose blend of size and technique has earned him the No. 1 spot in South Carolina and a 31‑offer slate that includes schools from the SEC to the Big Ten. His 44 tackles this past year underscore a disruptive presence on the line.
Close behind, Riggs Savage has cemented his status as the state’s third‑overall prospect and a top‑30 tight end nationally. With 19 scholarships on the table — among them from South Carolina and Indiana — his route‑running and receiving skill set make him a dual‑threat in the offensive scheme.
Defensive back Zion Dawkins, meanwhile, has caught the eye of ACC programs after recording four interceptions, a pick‑six, and 76 tackles. His ball‑hawking instincts and coverage versatility have positioned him as a potential early‑enrollee at several in‑state schools.
Running back Michael Martin has surged to third place in the state for rushing touchdowns, tallying 30 scores and 1,425 yards while attracting interest from Duke, Georgia Tech and Wake Forest. His blend of power and agility suggests a promising future at the next level.
Quarterback Jace Grass has posted impressive numbers — 2,779 passing yards, 31 touchdowns and just two interceptions — while operating alongside elite receiver Trey Wimbley, who is headed to Clemson. The partnership has turned the offense into a high‑octane unit.
Key Profiles of the Top Ten
Linebacker Phillip Savage brings a relentless motor, logging 75 tackles, seven for loss, three sacks and a defensive touchdown. His recruitment list includes Cincinnati, Miami (Ohio) and other power programs eager to add his versatility.
Defensive lineman Josh Evans stands out as a two‑way athlete, compiling 68 tackles with 13.5 for loss and seven sacks while also qualifying for state championships in the shot put. His athletic range adds depth to his defensive skill set.
Offensive lineman Ian Jones, though yet to receive a high‑profile offer, played a pivotal role in a ground game that produced a 1,611‑yard rusher and 21 touchdowns. His contributions in the trenches highlight the importance of line play in the team's success.
Defensive tackle Jayden Wheeler, nicknamed ‘Big Thunder,’ dominates the interior with 20 solo stops, three sacks and three hurries. His disruptive presence has made him a cornerstone of the defensive front.
Linebacker Kyle Jackson, a starter since his freshman year, has compiled 49 tackles, two sacks and six quarterback hurries. His early‑career experience and consistent production signal a matured leadership role.
Looking Ahead
As these juniors continue to develop, the Upstate’s football landscape is poised for a resurgence. The convergence of elite talent, aggressive recruiting and strong community support suggests that the 2026 season could usher in a new era of competitiveness on the national stage.