Rising Stars of the 2026 Elite 11
The annual Express-News Elite 11 list spotlights the most promising high school football players from the San Antonio area, blending seasoned standouts with fresh talent.
Among the returning champions, Hunter Haug and Ty Knutson of Smithson Valley have each secured back‑to‑back state titles, cementing their status as leaders on the field and as top recruits for Power Four programs.
Brayden Booth from South San, already noted for his historic recruitment, announced his commitment to the University of North Carolina in June 2025 after drawing interest from SMU and Ole Miss.
Braelyn Allen, a sophomore at Johnson High, burst onto the scene as a wide receiver, amassing 1,280 yards and 19 touchdowns in her freshman campaign, earning Express-News Football Newcomer of the Year honors.
The list also features Mikhail McCreary, a four‑star defensive back from Johnson, and Kaeden Scott of Roosevelt, the top‑ranked Texas recruit in the 2027 class who pledged to Texas A&M.
Hakim Frampton, who transferred from Robinson High, contributed 37 catches for 724 yards and nine touchdowns, helping his new team capture a state championship.
Ty Knutson’s quarterback performance led Smithson Valley to a second state title in his first year, throwing for 2,610 yards and 29 touchdowns, underscoring the depth of talent in the 2026 cohort.
These prospects not only highlight individual achievement but also signal a vibrant future for San Antonio football, with commitments to major collegiate programs and the promise of continued state‑level success.