The Montgomery Advertiser has released its latest high‑school football rankings, pinpointing the ten players who are expected to shape the Montgomery area’s narrative as the 2026 season moves into Week 3. The list, compiled from recent game footage, preseason polls and direct input from local coaches, spotlights athletes who have already demonstrated the ability to influence both sides of the ball.
Week 3 Preview
These rankings are not merely a tally of statistics; they reflect a blend of Week 0 performance, each player’s classification within the AHSAA, preseason expectations and the strategic insight of coaches who know the competition intimately. The result is a nuanced view of who is poised to lead the region’s squads into the upcoming regional showdown.
At the top of the list stands Deshawn Hall of Prattville, whose elite receiving skills have already drawn attention from college scouts. His upcoming Week 3 road contest against Hoover will be a key test of whether his play‑making can translate against a traditionally strong defensive front.
Close behind, Jayden Aparicio‑Bailey earns the No. 2 spot for his exceptional coverage ability and leadership on defense, traits that have cemented his reputation as one of the nation’s premier defensive backs.
Braden Gordon from Montgomery Academy, ranked third, may have posted modest offensive numbers in Week 2, but his defensive impact remains a cornerstone of his team’s success, often disrupting opposing drives with timely pressure.
Jason Crenshaw, positioned fourth, brings a dominant edge‑rushing presence that has seen him attract interest from Power 5 programs such as Georgia Tech, underscoring his potential at the next level.
Junior quarterback Will McKay of Prattville climbs to fifth after a flawless Week 2 outing that featured four touchdowns and zero turnovers, showcasing his poise under pressure and efficiency in the passing game.
Running back Quinton Robinson of Pike Road, ranked sixth, has been a workhorse, logging over one hundred rushing yards in three consecutive weeks and anchoring his team’s ground attack.
Sophomore CJ Brown, also from Prattville, leads the receiving corps with five touchdowns in three games and an average of 86 yards per contest, highlighting his role as a primary target for his quarterback.
Ricardo Parker, placed eighth, contributes consistently on defense, regularly registering tackles‑for‑loss despite his team’s already formidable defensive unit, a testament to his relentless pursuit of the ball carrier.
Reid McBride of Montgomery Academy, ranked ninth, posted a strong Week 2 performance with four touchdowns while limiting turnovers, reinforcing his reputation as a reliable playmaker.
Elijah Brown rounds out the top ten with a presence that, while less statistically prominent in Week 2, adds depth and versatility to his squad’s overall composition.
Together, these ten athletes illustrate the richness of talent across the Montgomery area, a region where high‑school football continues to serve as a breeding ground for future college and professional prospects. As Week 3 approaches, the spotlight on these players promises heightened excitement and competitive vigor throughout the AHSAA season.