A Fast Start for Rising Sophomores

We’ve already released our first rankings for the OKPreps class of 2026, as well as an in-state watch list for 2027, but we noticed a trend while going over so much in-state tape. There’s a considerable amount of rising sophomores who have already made a big impression. As such we wanted to offer some of the names that have already stood out and figure to see their recruiting take off over the next few years and, in all likelihood, much sooner.
Creed Barrett – QB – Washington
Early Takeaways: Barrett has the feel of maybe the state’s next elite quarterback prospect after several years without one. Leading Washington to another state title as just a freshman was an impressive opening act and with his mobility and general arm talent there’s definitely a feeling that he’s just getting started.
Tommalik Benson – CB – Westmoore
Early Takeaways: He may not be well known yet but watching the rising sophomore work there’s a chance that the Jaguars have their first high-major prospect under David White. He’s an instinctive player who, unlike so many young defensive backs, likes to arrive with some physicality and looks more than comfortable playing near the box.
Breck Brady – DL – Bethany
Early Takeaways: The son of former Sooners standout Rickey, Breck was just starting to work his way into the forefront for the Broncos when we saw him midseason. He’s got a great frame and though he clearly could follow in his father’s footsteps at tight end, he flashed some real potential as a future defensive tackle.
Kamieon Compton-Nero – CB – Rejoice Christian
Early Takeaways: There are few players on this list of rising sophomores who seem to have more upside at this point than Compton-Nero. He has big-time length, the ability to turn and run, and still has plenty of room to grow. He’s one of the more interesting possibilities in this 2028 class.
Terrance Evans – DL – Tulsa Union
Early Takeaways: Evans was rumored to be something special before he ever stepped onto the field for the Redhawks. After a year of playing it’s pretty clear he could be the state’s next great defensive tackle. Just how far that can take him is going to be up to him but if Evans reaches his ceiling, he could be truly special.
Kristopher Grimaldo – LB – Madill
Early Takeaways: Grimaldo is the rare linebacker who made an early impact. As a freshman he lined up a lot as an outside linebacker but it will be interesting to see if he develops into an off-ball linebacker. Grimaldo shows off closing speed and a decisive style that show real promise.
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Wyatt Knol – OT – Edmond North
Early Takeaways: Knol is, currently, a very long and lean offensive tackle but his movement skills are hard to ignore. He’s also shown off some ability to be physical and mix it up. If everything lines out and his frame continues to develop he could get onto a similar trajectory as Cooper Hackett.
Knoxtyn Rallo – ATH – Piedmont
Early Takeaways: Rallo is one of the state’s most exciting players to watch. Though his film, and role, was somewhat limited for Piedmont, speed like his is tough to ignore. It will be very interesting to see how he develops and at what position but he’s a name people need to know.
David Thomas – WR – Stillwater
Early Takeaways: The lone 2028 prospect to already hold a Sooners offer, Thomas has loads of ability and has the chance to be the state’s next elite receiver. Thomas can do a bit of everything and, along with several others, is a clear contender at this very, very early point for the state’s top spot.
Ryder Waddell – LB – Poteau
Early Takeaways: Near the end of our film evaluation we came across the big and long linebacker. Waddell is really just a ball of talent at this point in time but the talent is hard to ignore. He’s a rising sophomore who could become a very big name in the next few years.