Featured photo by Teran Malone (West Virginia MetroNews)
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’26 West Virginia Defensive Backs to Watch
ABC Order
Hope Bokwe
6’3″ 190lbs | Spring Mills HS | 2026
“His length is impressive, and his change of direction at his size is rare. With plenty of room to grow and a great frame, his upside is clear. He showed out at the showcase and was one of the top performers on both sides of the ball.”
Aidan Burke
6’0″ 170 lbs | Mingo Central HS | 2026
“This kid is a football player—plain and simple. He has range and is electric with the ball in his hands. His body composition stands out from other skill players on the field. Long-term, he projects as a dynamic hybrid-type player.”
Carter Cooper
5’11” 175 lbs | Morgantown HS | 2026
“A breakout season may be on the horizon for Cooper. He’s a pure athlete who can line up at multiple spots to take advantage of his speed, strength, and agility.”
Aidan Hernandez
6’2″ 170 lbs | Herbert Hoover HS | 2026
“Did it all last season—especially on offense as a reliable pass catcher and ball carrier. With his length, speed, and ball skills, he could project to either side of the ball at the next level.”
Damian Johnson
5’9″ 170 lbs | Capital HS | 2026
“The kid can really open up and run. He’s got good feet and makes sharp breaks on the ball. The only knock is his size, but he produces at a level that more than makes up for it.”
Zaiiden Lockett
5’10” 170 lbs | Morgantown HS | 2026
“He’s a true hybrid-type player, and you can tell he embraces the role. Shows patience when fitting the run and brings physicality at the point of attack. His offensive film highlights his overall athleticism. Definitely a fun and impressive tape to watch.”
Christian Robinson
6’0″ 190 lbs | Capital HS | 2026
“No doubt an intriguing prospect—he’s got the length, size, and athleticism. Projects well as either a high safety or an overhang defender. Still a bit raw technically, but his instincts help bridge the gap. Plenty of upside as he continues to develop.”
Isaac Sands
5’10” 170 lbs | Wheeling Park HS | 2026
“This is a player who deserves more attention. He shows unique, uncoachable traits—particularly his patience in flat-foot reads and discipline when playing the alley. He triggers with intent and accuracy, while also showing the ability to make plays in space. His coverage skills stand out as well.”
Luke Shafer
6’0″ 170 lbs | Nitro HS | 2026
“Certainly could have earned a spot on our wide receiver watchlist after a highly productive 2024 campaign. He combines length and sharp footwork to stay a step ahead of defenders.”
AJ Thomas
5’11” 170 lbs | Woodrow Wilson HS | 2026
“A true free safety through and through. He plays with excellent range and brings physicality when needed. Shows good ball skills, smooth and quick feet, and has the ability to cover a lot of ground on the back end.”
Camren Togans
6’1″ 180 lbs | Washington HS | 2026
“Projects as an athletic linebacker with the size and physicality to play in the box. Also shows range in pass coverage, with plenty of film as a capable safety.”
Mason Walley
5’10” 150 lbs | Martinsburg HS | 2026
“His stock rose significantly at the showcase, especially going up against some of the best in the state. He can absolutely run, and his technique has taken a big step forward. His explosiveness out of breaks stands out, and he moves extremely well in tight spaces. A rising prospect to keep an eye on.”