As the 2026 high school football season draws near, Lubbock’s programs are buzzing with optimism. A group of seniors who dazzled in 2025 is poised to drive the next wave of success, turning early‑season matchups into showcases of talent and determination.
Offensive Leaders
Quarterback Jonah Reed of Monterey High School returns as the centerpiece of his team's attack. In 2025 he amassed 2,816 passing yards and 32 touchdowns, establishing himself as the top returning signal‑caller for the upcoming campaign.
Running back Josue Sigala from Muleshoe High School earned the 2025 small‑school Super Team offensive player of the year honor after rushing for 2,235 yards and scoring 38 total touchdowns, a combination that makes him a focal point of any offensive game plan.
Wide receiver Cooper Hammock‑Wilson of Idalou High School emerged as a deep threat, hauling in 67 catches for 1,125 yards and 12 touchdowns while also contributing two punt‑return scores that added a dynamic spark to his team's special teams.
Vershaunndrick Smith, an offensive lineman from Estacado High School, was recognized as a four‑star prospect and earned unanimous first‑team all‑district honors, underscoring his dominance in the trenches.
Defensive Impact
Defensive lineman Peytan Moyers from Idalou High School led his unit with 88 tackles, including 25 for a loss and 10 sacks, illustrating a relentless pass‑rush presence that will anchor his team's defense.
Linebacker Jaivyth Cruz of Ropes High School posted 174 tackles, 32 of which came behind the line of scrimmage, and added four sacks, a performance that placed him among the most prolific defensive playmakers in the region.
Defensive back Cruz Dickson from Shallowater High School contributed 59 tackles and intercepted six passes, providing a reliable secondary that will look to limit opposing aerial attacks.
Special Teams Highlight
Punter Parker Bottema of Coronado High School averaged 33.4 yards per punt on 40 attempts, a consistency that should give his team favorable field position throughout the season.