Colorado Preps 2026 Football Outlook
Colorado’s high school football landscape is entering a pivotal 2026 season, with preseason rankings already shaping expectations for the state’s elite programs. In the 4A division, Monarch sits second behind a handful of traditional powerhouses, a placement that reflects both past achievements and the promise of a revamped roster.
The Monarch Knights are poised for a breakout year after a strong offseason. Returning standouts such as running back Malakai Payne and quarterback Grant Haas bring a blend of speed and experience, while senior Abbott Lockwood, a recruit drawing interest from all three service academies, adds depth to the backfield. Coach Jeff Santee, who has already lifted the program into the elite tier within two years, believes this could be the most talented squad he has fielded.
Just a few miles away, Holy Family continues to dominate the 3A conversation. The Tigers are ranked third and return sophomore quarterback Kaden Hopkin, who burst onto the scene with 2,723 passing yards and 29 touchdowns last season. Their recent dominance over Mead, including a playoff win, fuels optimism that they can contend for a state title.
Fairview’s Ki Ellison, a junior who finished among the state’s top ten in passing yards, will be charged with leading a offense that lost key weapons Jordan Rechel and Toray Davis. Despite the turnover, Ellison’s 2,964 yards and 35 touchdowns in 2024‑25 demonstrate his ability to adapt, and his leadership will be tested as the Knights aim for deeper playoff runs.
Longmont’s Jacob Foot emerges as one of the most underrated playmakers in the region, stepping into a larger role after Broomfield’s Kashus Clarvoe transferred to Valor Christian. His agility and vision have already drawn praise from coaches and teammates, positioning him as a potential game‑changer for the Lancers.
Further down the rankings, Silver Creek and Skyline sit ninth and tenth in 4A, respectively. Both teams bring back their top tacklers from 2025 — Kai Brown for Silver Creek and Bobby Knapp for Skyline — giving them a solid defensive foundation as they look to climb the standings.
Early Season Matchups
The season’s first test arrives on August 21, when Monarch opens against defending 3A champion Pomona. The matchup will serve as an early barometer for the Knights’ title aspirations and could set the tone for a competitive Boulder‑Longmont corridor.
With early games on the horizon, coaches and fans alike are watching closely how these teams translate preseason promise into on‑field success. The mix of seasoned veterans and emerging stars promises a thrilling year of high‑school football across Colorado.