ESPN MASSIVE REPORT: Five Key Players Who Could potential end up in the 2026 class Boiler Sports Report 1

ESPN MASSIVE REPORT: Five Key Players Who Could potential end up in the 2026 class Boiler Sports Report 1

The 2026 draft class may still be two seasons away, but scouts and analysts are already buzzing about a handful of rising stars who could define the class. Whether they’re dominating high school courts, tearing up the 7-on-7 circuit, or making early noise in college, these five prospects have the talent, upside, and intangibles to make a major leap. Here’s why they’re already on the radar.

### 1. **Jalen Whitmore – QB, St. Augustine (FL)**

**Why He Could Be 2026 Bound:**
Whitmore has the tools NFL scouts drool over—elite arm strength, size (6’4”, 215 lbs), and dual-threat mobility. Already projected as a Day 1 starter at Alabama, Whitmore has the poise and vision of a pro. He’s showing signs of being this class’s version of Caleb Williams. If he develops as expected over three years, he’ll be a lock for the 2026 draft.

**Key Strengths:** Pocket awareness, deep ball, leadership
**Player Comp:** C.J. Stroud with more wheels

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### 2. **Tyrese Battle – SG, Oak Hill Academy (VA)**

**Why He Could Be 2026 Bound:**
Battle is drawing comparisons to Bradley Beal with his elite shot-making and advanced footwork. The 6’5” shooting guard already holds offers from Duke, Kentucky, and UConn. Should he opt for one year of college or an alternate path like the G League Ignite, his polished offensive game could fast-track him to a one-and-done status.

**Key Strengths:** Shot creation, mid-range pull-up, basketball IQ
**Player Comp:** Devin Booker lite

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### 3. **Elijah Rawlins – EDGE, Mater Dei (CA)**

**Why He Could Be 2026 Bound:**
Rawlins is already a terror off the edge at the high school level, and his frame (6’6”, 245 lbs) is perfect for an NFL transition. With a commitment to Georgia, expect him to rack up sacks early in his college career. His bend and explosiveness scream first-round potential.

**Key Strengths:** Explosiveness, technique, motor
**Player Comp:** Brian Burns

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### 4. **Kamari Voss – PG, Montverde Academy (FL)**

**Why He Could Be 2026 Bound:**
Voss is a pure floor general with elite court vision and control. At just 17, he’s already flashing NBA-level passing and pick-and-roll reads. If he lands in a system that lets him shine as a freshman, he could easily rise into the lottery conversation for the 2026 NBA Draft.

**Key Strengths:** Vision, handle, tempo control
**Player Comp:** Tyrese Haliburton

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### 5. **Malik Jefferson – WR, IMG Academy (FL)**

**Why He Could Be 2026 Bound:**
This 6’3” speedster ran a 4.35 40-yard dash at 17 years old and has hands like glue. With a commitment to Ohio State and comparisons to Garrett Wilson, Jefferson has everything scouts love in a modern NFL receiver. If he continues his development, he could be WR1 in 2026.

**Key Strengths:** Speed, hands, route-running
**Player Comp:** Garrett Wilson

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**Final Takeaway:**
The 2026 draft class may still be forming, but the foundation is already being laid by these standout athletes. With development, health, and the right systems, each could become a household name when their time arrives.

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Let me know if you’d like this adapted for NCAA team coverage or to feature Purdue athletes!