Top Houston-Area Recruits to Watch for the 2026 Class

As the college football signing period approaches, Houston is buzzing with excitement over its talented high school athletes, particularly those in the upcoming 2026 class. While many top recruits have already committed, there’s plenty of talent emerging that football fans won’t want to miss.

Leading the group is Henderson, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 187 pounds. Committed to Houston, he is currently ranked as the No. 1 “athlete” in the nation and No. 2 overall in Texas. Last season, Henderson showcased his skills as a quarterback, throwing for 2,689 yards and 25 touchdowns. His standout performance at the Navy All-American Bowl earned him the MVP title, adding to his growing reputation.

Another noteworthy player is Stewart from Shadow Creek, known for his explosive abilities on offense. At 6-foot and 181 pounds, he notched 60 catches for 922 yards and 15 touchdowns last year. Committed to Texas, he has already tallied 25 touchdown catches in two seasons, solidifying his status as the No. 19 receiver in the country.

Okpala, a linebacker from Mayde Creek, made his mark with 50 tackles and five sacks during his junior year. Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 215 pounds, he ranks as the No. 14 linebacker nationally, showcasing his skills both defensively and as a team player.

Warren, another athlete on the rise, is recognized for his impressive touchdown production at Iowa Colony. Scoring on 14 of his 26 receptions, he averaged 24 yards per catch this past season, marking him as the No. 24 overall player in Texas.

The defensive back prospect, Calicut, has begun attracting offers from top schools including Texas and Alabama. He completed his junior campaign with 44 tackles and is receiving recognition as the No. 16 safety in the nation.

On the offensive line, Moore has proven to be a force for Willis. Listing 6-foot-4 and weighing 290 pounds, he helped his team achieve nearly 500 yards per game, making him a highly sought-after recruit.

Bishop continues to impress as a wide receiver, finding the end zone 18 times last season. With college pedigree and tremendous talent, he’s a name to watch.

Last but not least, Mack has made headlines as a dual-threat quarterback. His seasons as a sophomore and junior saw him achieve impressive stats, with over 1,800 passing yards and close to 2,000 rushing yards, positioning him as a versatile athlete for the future.

These talents highlight the strength of the Houston area’s high school football scene. As we look ahead to the future of college football, it’s clear that the 2026 class has the potential to make significant waves.