Rising Stars of Michigan High School Football
As the summer heat settles over the Great Lakes, Michigan’s high school football scene is buzzing with anticipation for the 2026 campaign. Ten seniors have emerged as the players to watch, each bringing a blend of size, skill and college‑level promise that could reshape the state’s rankings.
The tradition of powerhouse programs continues, with schools such as Detroit Catholic Central, Detroit Country Day and Orchard Lake St. Mary’s dominating recent divisions, while newcomers like Kalamazoo Loy Norrix are beginning to make noise on the national stage.
At the center of the conversation is Duke Banta of Detroit Catholic Central, a quarterback who guided his team to a perfect 14‑0 season and a Division 1 championship as a junior. His poise under pressure and precise passing have drawn comparisons to the state’s all‑time greats.
Equally compelling is Anthony Cartwright III, a towering pass catcher from Detroit Country Day who has pledged to Oregon. His physicality at the line of scrimmage and ability to high‑point the ball have made him a nightmare for opposing secondaries.
Gideon Gash, also a product of Catholic Central, showcases versatility, excelling as a receiver and a shutdown cornerback, while committing to Texas Tech. His dual‑role talent reflects the modern athlete who can influence the game on both sides of the ball.
Jabin Gonzales, the dual‑threat quarterback from Orchard Lake St. Mary’s, has led his squad to back‑to‑back Division 2 titles, and his decision to stay home for college adds a local narrative to his already impressive résumé.
Other names stirring excitement include Dakota Guerrant, a top recruit whose elite receiving skills have earned him an Oregon commitment; Bryce Kish of Howell, a two‑way standout headed to Clemson; and Recarder Kitchen, a pass‑rusher from Muskegon who will wear Michigan blue next fall.
Meanwhile, Jakari Lipsey’s athletic frame has propelled him to a Navy All‑American Bowl invitation, Myles Smith’s disruptive presence on the defensive line earned him a spot at Indiana, and Don Spillers III’s contributions on both sides of the ball keep Detroit King in the conversation for another title run.
The commitments of these prospects illustrate a broader trend: top talent is increasingly choosing major programs, yet many remain rooted in Michigan’s rich football culture. Their decisions will not only shape their own futures but also influence recruiting pipelines across the Midwest.