Top Texas Prospect Watch: Underclassmen On The Rise

Sophomore QB Jaxon Schad has a big time performance to open the season.

Every season in Texas, new names emerge and establish themselves as future stars on the recruiting radar. Week Zero was no different, as several freshmen and sophomores announced their arrival with big-time performances. From explosive offensive weapons to field generals under center, these hidden gems are quickly turning into household names across the state.

Zach Williams, WR, Bishop Lynch (Dallas, TX), Class of 2029

Williams wasted no time making an impact, opening the season with 4 receptions for 122 yards and a touchdown. He flashes elite quickness and sharp route running, showing the ability to stack defenders off the line of scrimmage and create separation downfield. His shiftiness in space makes him a dangerous playmaker who can turn short gains into explosive plays.

Williams already holds early offers from Texas State, Sacramento State, Toledo, and Syracuse, and if his debut was any indication, that list is only going to grow.

Trey Wright, QB, Lone Star HS, Class of 2028

One of the most impressive debuts statewide came from Wright, who proved himself as a true dual-threat quarterback. He threw for 303 yards and 3 touchdowns, while adding 140 yards rushing in Lone Star’s opener. His elusiveness as a runner combined with his arm strength and accuracy on the move make him one of the most dangerous underclassmen signal callers in Texas.

Also an elite basketball player averaging double digits as a point guard his freshman season, Wright’s multi-sport athleticism translates to his ability to lead, create, and take over games. Expect his name to be in the conversation as one of the top 2028 quarterback prospects.

Royce Swan, RB, Pearland HS, Class of 2028

Swan made the most of his touches in Week One, carrying the ball 7 times for 77 yards and 2 touchdowns. At 5-foot-9, 175 pounds, he shows excellent burst, vision, and elusiveness, with the ability to set up blocks and finish runs with toughness. He also displayed a natural nose for the end zone in short-yardage situations.

As Pearland continues to lean on his playmaking ability, expect Swan’s production and recruiting attention to rise quickly.

Carter Zingleman, QB, Coppell HS, Class of 2028

At 6-foot-5, 219 pounds, Zingleman looks the part of a prototypical college quarterback, but his game extends far beyond his size. In Coppell’s 28-20 win over Sachse, he passed for 200 yards and rushed for 122 yards with 3 total touchdowns, flashing his dual-threat capabilities.

Zingleman’s strong arm allows him to fit throws into tight windows, while his speed and size make him a load to handle as a runner. A standout track athlete who won a district title in the 400M, he is an explosive all-around competitor with early offers from Houston, Baylor, UTSA, and Midwestern State.

Cody Smith, LB, South Oak Cliff (Dallas, TX), Class of 2028

Thrown into the fire against 6A powerhouse North Shore, Smith looked like a seasoned veteran in his first varsity start. At 5’10, 190 pounds, he brings sideline-to-sideline speed, physical tackling, and strong instincts that allow him to diagnose plays quickly.

His ability to take proper angles to the football and deliver reliable stops makes him a defensive name to remember in the coming years for perennial contender South Oak Cliff.

Jaxon Schad, QB, Pflugerville Weiss, Class of 2028

Now in his second season as the starter, Schad looked polished and in full command of his offense in a 56-28 win over Round Rock McNeil. He finished with 233 passing yards, 3 passing touchdowns, and 1 rushing touchdown.

Schad’s skill set is advanced for his age. He shows great touch on the deep ball, the ability to thread tight coverage windows, and a quick release. Add in his athleticism and poise in the pocket, and it is clear why he has already drawn offers from Texas Tech, SMU, and Houston. Expect his stock to continue rising as he leads Weiss through Central Texas competition.

The Takeaway

Texas football never has a shortage of future stars, and Week One highlighted the next wave. From Zach Williams’ breakout at Bishop Lynch to quarterbacks like Trey Wright, Carter Zingleman, and Jaxon Schad showing next-level ability, the Lone Star State continues to reload with underclassman talent. These Top Texas Prospects are names for recruiters to know, and they will not be hidden gems much longer.