(ABC order; one per team)
Jalyn Abercrombie
ATH | Spring Valley | 2025
The Timberwolves remain one of the most consistent programs of the last decade under Brad Dingess. 2024 should not change things. All-around athlete Abercrombie is a Division I-level player who excels in running, receiving, and returning. Several newer names are expected to stand out for Spring Valley this season.
Max Anderson
QB | Spring Mills | 2025
Anderson has been one of the most prolific players in the state since his sophomore season. He is especially effective as a runner, but he also demonstrated passing skills with 16 scores through the air last year. The Cardinals should be a quiet contender this year with the likes of Blake Sanders, Brayden Kirk, Keyon Mills, Phophett Guillame, and Xavier Anderson.
Koi Fagan
ATH | Martinsburg | 2025
The defending champs hold a bevy of talented players, including Brady Breeden, Peyton Kaufman, Kane Whipp, and Zavier Pollard upfront, as well as top-ranked linebackers Nic Busky and Ace Flores. Their skill group is deep with Brayden Miller and expected breakouts like Kyree Bunny, Boston Todd, and Brian Dick. Koi Fagan, one of the most athletic players in the state, is expected to lead the Bulldogs to another championship run with his high-end speed in numerous positions.
Levi Faircloth
OL | Hedgesville | 2025
Hedgesville has seen significant progress in recent years, with Faircloth contributing since an underclassman. Standing at 6’5”, he has excellent size, developed feet, and athleticism, which has garnered him significant Division I interest. He will block for a solid offense led by wide receiver Gavin Young.
Guner Flores
LB | George Washington | 2025
The Patriots will boast one of the best linebacking corps in the state, with Flores being a strong piece. The 6’2” backer is an explosive player, particularly effective in his pass rush. He joins other high-interest defenders such as Hunter Giacomo and Clyde May, with Brayden Lude and Johvon Davis up front, and Sai’Vyon Brown and Solomon Ferrell as next-level skill players.
Zah Jackson
ATH | Huntington | 2025
The Highlanders boast one of the most talented rosters in the state, with all-state level skill players such as Tayveon Wilson, Avonte Crawford, Keegan Sack, and Taviun Chandler. They also have a talented front with Aryn McPherson, Mason Ramsey, Bryce Winkfield, and Landon Miller. Zah Jackson, a top position player since his freshman year, is a game-changer in all three phases. The West Virginia commit aims to lead the Highlanders to the championship as a senior.
Brock Kehler
LB | University | 2025
Kehler is a prototypical high-level linebacker. The 6’3” 235-pounder was a force as a junior, finishing with over 140 tackles. He is expected to lead the defense again and might play a heightened role on offense. The Hawks have talent in all sectors with players like Jimmy Gregg and Kaleil Lewis.
Landon Nida
ATH | Cabell Midland | 2025
Nida is one of the most dynamic pieces on a highly talented Scarlet Knight team. His play in various positions, particularly in the defensive secondary, will be key for Cabell Midland’s late playoff push. Nida has garnered serious Division I interest this offseason, alongside teammates Ben Guilliams, Caleb Parlier, and Carson Gue. Other standouts include Matthew Edwards, Logan Gillispie, and Landon Taylor.
Isaiah Osafo-Mensah
OL | Washington | 2025
The Washington program has been on the rise over the past few years, with Osafo-Mensah leading the charge up front. He has solid size and athleticism, making him an impact player on both offense and defense. The state should also know the names of quarterbacks Braylon Holmes and Michael Thomas and skill players Camren Togans, Isaah Beard, and Terry Rea III.
Tay’Shaun Roper
RB | Jefferson | 2025
Jefferson has always been known for speed, and Roper lives up to that reputation. The hard-nosed back is among the fastest players in the state, complemented by his shiftiness. The Cougar offense expects to score plenty with Roper and returning talented passer Dylan Harich. Jackson Rockwell and Kip Waldeck are expected to help the program return to the postseason.
Aidan Stire
SP | Morgantown | 2025
The Mohigans will have many players to watch in 2024, with their offense expected to run through running back AJ Thomas and a line featuring several promising young linemen. Among the highlights is their kicker and punter, Aidan Stire, considered one of the top specialists in the region. His elite play across all phases has earned him an opportunity to play for West Virginia next season.
Tucker Van Meter
DL | Capital | 2026
The Cougars are generating excitement with the return of head coach Jon Carpenter, known for having talented linemen. Van Meter, a 6’3” two-way player, is an aggressive and athletic tackle and interior defender. Other talent includes Shamar Smith, Tajai Davis, and Jakori Clark.
Noah Vellaithambi
QB | Hurricane | 2025
Vellaithambi has little left to prove, having been all-state at multiple positions and receiving Division I interest at several spots. Returning to quarterback, he is a frontrunner for the Kennedy Award, with his lead weapon, Tyshawn Dues, to throw to. Hurricane boasts a talented lineup, including Division I signees Drake Lanham and Rhett McGrew, as well as Ethan Chill and Sha’lik Hampton. More playmakers are expected to emerge as Hurricane aims for a deep run.
Every year, new players make a name for themselves, whether it’s an underrated senior or a breakout freshman. Comment on this post, X, or Facebook with your picks for who should be on everyone’s watchlist in Class A heading into 2024.