Football: 10+ Mississippi Players to Watch

The state of Mississippi has always punched above its weight in the world of football recruiting. With a long-standing reputation for producing elite-level talent, it’s no surprise that coaches from across the country treat the Magnolia State like prized territory. But in 2026, something different is happening. The fences that once helped Ole Miss and Mississippi State keep their top prospects close to home are starting to fall.

The class of 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most loaded Mississippi has ever seen. This group features game-breakers at the skill positions and dominant forces along the offensive and defensive lines. But what’s making headlines just as much as their talent is the fact that so many of them are choosing to take that talent elsewhere.

Preston Ashley, DB, Brandon: Ashley has been the heartbeat of a Brandon defense that reached the 7A state title game. With 168 tackles over his career and a physical, versatile skill set, he’s a defensive back who can play multiple roles. His commitment to Colorado shows just how far Deion Sanders’ influence has reached. Choosing the Buffaloes over Florida and Florida State, Ashley’s decision underlines how brand, vision, and fit can outweigh geography in today’s recruiting landscape.

Emanuel Tucker, OL, New Albany: A 6-foot-5 mauler with quick feet and two-way experience, Tucker’s background in basketball enhances his natural mobility on the football field. After decommitting from Mississippi State, Tucker pledged to LSU, joining a wave of elite Mississippi linemen headed to Baton Rouge. It was a targeted and strategic win for the Tigers, weakening an SEC rival while building their trenches.

Tylan Wilson, S, Pascagoula: Wilson is a lanky safety with strong ball skills and a knack for playmaking. As a two-sport athlete, his ceiling is high, and he could eventually slide closer to the box as a hybrid defender. With a decision looming, he’s choosing between Texas A&M, Clemson, and Arkansas. His recruitment reflects the national nature of modern recruiting and the growing strength of programs beyond traditional state borders.

Dereon Albert, DL, Jackson Academy: Albert’s strength and explosiveness make him a nightmare on the interior line. With 246 tackles and 22.5 sacks, his production speaks for itself. Tennessee landed him in a major recruiting coup, especially after also securing a commitment from his teammate, linebacker TJ White. Their package deal sends a message about the Vols’ strategy and success in Mississippi.

Corey Wells, DL, Petal: Wells brings size, length, and a high ceiling. He’s the kind of defensive lineman every Power Four program covets. His commitment to Texas is a major moment for the Longhorns as they continue to push deeper into SEC territory. It’s another sign that traditional recruiting borders are being redrawn.

Damarius Yates, RB, Kemper County: Yates is an explosive playmaker with track speed and big-play potential. With over 3,900 career all-purpose yards, he’s the kind of back who can change games. His flip from Mississippi State to Ole Miss was a huge in-state win for Lane Kiffin, proving that Ole Miss can still protect its turf when it matters most.

Jase Mathews, WR, Greene County: Mathews is a multi-sport athlete and elite receiver who thrives on quickness and creativity. His numbers are elite, and his recruitment has become a classic SEC showdown. While LSU and Texas A&M are in the mix, Ole Miss and Auburn are going head-to-head. Ole Miss has the relationship. Auburn is selling immediate opportunity. This decision will say a lot about what matters most to today’s top prospects.

Nolan Wilson, DL, Picayune: Wilson is an edge rusher with relentless energy and elite production. With 16 tackles for loss and seven forced fumbles as a junior, he’s already a game-wrecker. His commitment to Alabama shows that the Crimson Tide’s recruiting brand remains as potent as ever, even in the post-Saban era. Wilson chose the Tide over offers from Ole Miss, Florida, and Auburn.

Bralan Womack, ATH, Hartfield Academy: The 2024 Mississippi Gatorade Player of the Year is a force on both sides of the ball. Womack tallied eight interceptions, four returned for touchdowns, and over 1,000 receiving yards as a junior. With nearly three dozen offers, his recruitment is down to Ohio State and Auburn. His decision will be a referendum on the strength of national brands versus SEC tradition.

Tristen Keys, WR, Hattiesburg: Keys is the crown jewel of the 2026 class. At 6-foot-2.5 with blazing speed and a 41-inch vertical, he’s the consensus No. 1 player in Mississippi and the top wide receiver nationally. He committed to LSU in March, but the recruitment is still active. Tennessee is making a strong push, led by quarterback commit Faizon Brandon. Keys hasn’t closed the door, setting up a battle that could shake up the class rankings.

Just Outside the Top 10

JaReylan McCoy (DL, Tupelo) is a polarizing figure in the rankings due to an injury-riddled junior year. Florida, however, sees enough upside to make him a priority and already has his commitment.

Zayion Cotton (WR/TE, Grenada) is a towering target who helped lead his team to a state title. Mississippi State kept him home, scoring a key in-state win.

Bryson Cooley (OL, West Jones) is another top-tier lineman poached by LSU, strengthening their Mississippi haul and sending shockwaves through SEC circles.