Football: How does USA Today determine the top 100 recruits in Florida?
Recruiting analysts Jon Santucci and Nick Wilson explain how they compile the annual USA Today Florida Network Top 100 list.
It takes a lot to be considered an elite football player.
Dozens of measurables and countless intangibles make up a high-level recruit, and all of them combine for a unique player.
But some players, like the ones on this list, are the prototypes for their position. These five players, in one way or another, have the physical tools that project well at the next level.
(Players are listed in alphabetical order.)
Jabari Brady, Monarch
USA Today Florida Network Rank: No. 24
Position: Wide Receiver
Brady has the frame and toolkit to fight for reps as a freshman for whichever elite program gets him on campus. He is physical on the outside, has the strength to make catches through defenders, and the height to go upstairs. Brady also has an incredibly long wingspan and good hands. All of this, combined with impressive technique and explosiveness, have made him one of the most coveted receivers in the 2026 cycle. Brady took a visit to Missouri in March and is scheduled for an official visit in June.
Jaelen Waters, Armwood
USA Today Florida Network Rank: No. 20
Posotion: Cornerback
Waters, a Miami commit, looks like he was created in a lab for the sole purpose of breaking up passes. Corners with long arms already have an advantage, but Waters’ wingspan is so wide that he is in his own category. He’s strong enough to battle with bigger receivers, but also has elite speed that rarely allows any separation. Waters is already an elite corner with solid technique, and he only projects upwards.
Jordan Campbell, Miami Northwestern
USA Today Florida Network Rank: No. 12
Position: Linebacker
Campbell is a big, physical linebacker who still finds a way to play above his weight. He has wide shoulders, long arms, and his quick twitch advantage is real. On top of this, he has shown impressive fundamentals in coverage and is explosive off the edge in pressure. He’s a complete linebacker both physically and technically, and his hometown Hurricanes recognized this early in his career. Campbell committed to the Hurricanes in November 2023.
Noah Grubbs, Lake Mary
USA Today Florida Network rank: 31
Position: Quarterback
Grubbs, a Notre Dame commit, is a prototypical quarterback physically and mentally. He has the same height (6-foot-4, 190 pounds) as most of the quarterbacks taken in the first round of this year’s NFL Draft, and he has the frame that will allow him to reach NFL weight. He has downright outrageous arm-strength and accuracy, but he also has demonstrated a high understanding of the position with his pocket presence, progressions, and decision-making.
Preston Carey, IMG Academy
USA Today Florida Network Rank: No. 30
Position: Defensive Lineman
It’s hard enough to find a defensive tackle who has the size to contribute upon arrival in college, let alone the strength or technique. But Carey (6-foot-5, 300 pounds) is a textbook people-mover with a big wingspan, elite top-shelf strength, and impressive mobility. It’s no wonder that the Long Island native is a priority for blue-blood programs like Georgia, Alabama, and Ohio State. He’s taken visits to Syracuse, Rutgers, Florida, and USC so far.
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