The 2026 high school football season is already generating buzz across the Amarillo area and the broader Texas Panhandle, where a deep pool of returning talent promises to reshape the competitive landscape.
Rising Stars to Watch
Julian Reese II, a senior quarterback from Palo Duro, headlines the list after guiding his team to a District 2‑5A Division II title in 2025. He posted 3,053 passing yards and 31 touchdowns, earning MVP honors and a suite of Division I offers that have heightened expectations for his final season.
Cooper Schilling, also a senior quarterback from Perryton, followed up with 2,682 yards and 27 touchdowns in 2025, securing first‑team All‑District recognition and adding to the region’s quarterback depth.
At West Plains, running back Slade Russell earned District 2‑4A Division I Offensive MVP after racking up 2,002 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns, positioning him as one of the most potent ground threats in the area.
Wide receiver/tight end Kyron Brown from Palo Duro committed to the University of Texas, finishing his junior season with 37 catches for 637 yards and seven touchdowns, a combination that has scouts watching his every move.
Offensive lineman Jaxon Lawler from Bushland, a first‑team All‑District selection, announced his commitment to Oklahoma, underscoring the region’s ability to produce college‑ready talent on both sides of the ball.
Defensive standouts such as Keimaure Rayford from Palo Duro, who holds offers from Texas State, UTSA, UTEP, Houston and UNLV, and Landen Andrews from Panhandle, the District 1‑2A Division I Defensive MVP with 23 tackles, five interceptions and two defensive touchdowns, add further intrigue to the defensive landscape.
The breadth of talent extends beyond these marquee names, with additional standouts like Isaac Acosta, Kolson Allen and Kannon Aven emerging across various positions and schools, ensuring that the competitive balance will be tightly contested.
Community excitement is palpable, as local programs anticipate marquee matchups and rivalries that could define the season. With college commitments already locked in and a wealth of Division I interest, the upcoming schedule is poised to be a showcase of the Panhandle’s finest football prospects.