UA Next: Questions about the rankings after practice on Monday

UA Next: Questions about the rankings after practice on Monday

UA Next: Questions about the rankings after practice on Monday

LAKE BUENA VISTA. Fla. – Exercise number one is set for the Under Armor Next All-America Bowl. It was an easier exercise, but there was still a lot to learn in the evening.

Rivals takes a look at a handful of ranking questions from day one.

IS THERE A FIGHT FOR THE TOP PLACE IN RIVALS250?

Jackson Cantwell, the current No. 1 contender in the 2026 Rivals250, showed why he is considered the best player in the country. His footwork, athleticism and technique were exceptional during practice work. But fellow offensive tackle Immanuel Iheanacho was also an outstanding player on day one. The Maryland native is still raw but moves very well for his size and plays with great power.

The quarterbacks in the class – specifically Ryder Lyons, Jared Curtis and Faizon Brandon – will have a say in this discussion. But we could be preparing for an epic battle between two crucial offensive tackles for the top spot in the 2026 class.

IS DERREK COOPER A FIVE STAR RUNNING BACK?

Derrek Cooper is a five-star athlete and one of the top 2026 Rivals250 prospects. He was able to play at a high level on both sides of the ball in college. We think he could be a perfect hybrid space linebacker. Because of his ability to cover, he was able to play all three downs and rush the passer.

But as a running back, he is a powerful downhill runner who can also catch the football. There are programs like Georgia and Ohio State that are known for playing running back that would put him in that position.

Cooper is playing running back this week so he has a chance to make his point.

Will a tight end break away from the pack in 2026?

The group of tight ends entering Orlando in 2026 is top-notch and the gaps between the top prospects at the position are small, making every evaluation point count.

Xavier Tiller, who is committed to Texas A&M, appears to be a future SEC tight end. He has great potential and will fit into the coach Mike ElkoThe program is good. Utah junior Brock Harris is hard to see in person, but he moves well due to his size and creates spacing with his routes.

Georgia native Kaiden Prothro is shining in camp and expectations are high for him this week. He had a good first day and will probably excel in tackles.

It’s another great year at the position and we’re getting great exposure to some of the best players at the position.

WILL THE CLASS OF 2026 CREATE ANOTHER FIVE-STAR RECEIVER?

Ohio State commit Chris Henry Jr. is currently the only five-star receiver in the 2026 class. Will anyone be with him at the game this week? There are a few candidates.

Mississippi native Tristen Keys made several plays on the first day of practice. He is a smooth route runner who is electric with the ball in his hands. Fellow Mississippi guard Xavier McDonald has pretty good size and can really stretch the field. He has a chance to really improve his stock.

Florida native Naeem Burroughs has game-changing speed and has a chance to make some big plays this week. For these prospects, this is a great opportunity to achieve the coveted five-star status.

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