2026 QB Luke Delafield flashes in state championship game

NEW ORLEANS — The Caesars Superdome played host to the Louisiana state championship games over the weekend. It also provided a window to the next wave of talent popping up around the state.

That includes 2026 Stonewall (La.) North DeSoto QB Luke Delafield.

As a freshman, Delafield helped guide North DeSoto to the state title game. The 2026 quarterback opened the game with a dime downfield over two Lutcher (La.) defensive backs for a 78-yard touchdown. Delafield finished the game 23-of-39 (59 percent) for 320 yards and two TD. He was intercepted four times trying to rally his troops back late.

Freshmen rarely get a chance to start under center in this setting, but Delafield was up for the moment.

“To be 15 years old, playing in this moment … there’s gonna be many more big moments for him,” North DeSoto Coach Dennis Dunn said after the game. “He’s gonna come out on top.”

The Griffins leaned on Delafield, the freshman, who boasts a very strong arm and can fit throws into tight windows, and isn’t shy about taking chances. Delafield has a sound delivery and outstanding touch on his passes. He consistently puts the ball where his receivers can have a chance to make a play.

“Remember that name,” his coach remarked. “I’ve had the privilege of coaching some great ones, two National Player of the Years in Brock Berlin and Josh Booty, and he has every bit as many tools and as much talent as any of those guys. The greatest attribute of Luke, though, is humility, his ability to lead. He was born for moments like this.”

“He’s gonna learn from this experience and when he’s back on this stage, he’ll perform,” he continued. “For him to do the things we had him do as a freshman, I’ve never had one before doing things like him He’s got poise, a presence, the things you want in a quarterback.”

Delafield is the Dunn’s first-ever freshman starter at quarterback. In Year 1, Delafield passed for 2,572 yards and 38 TD. He also works closely with Berlin.

“We’re no longer the best-kept secret in Northwest Louisiana,” Dunn laughed. Certainly not with Delafield entrenched as the QB1 for the next three seasons.