Mecklenburg County high school football preview: Which teams could wind up on top?

Which Mecklenburg County school teams could play for a football title? Which players have been offered college scholarships? Here’s an outlook on and preview of the area’s season.

Also, in case you missed it, Mecklenburg County’s private schools were featured earlier this week.

ARDREY KELL

Head coach: Carter Greene (1st year)

2025 record: 6-4

Returning starters: 7

Key returnees: Khy’lieb Rodriguez (6-1, 175, WR, Sr. — 755 receiving yards last year; committed to NC State); Mackenzie Coates (6-3, 170, DB, Sr. — committed to the University of Maine); K’Hari Holley-Williams (6-4, 306, OL, Jr.); Sarjan Mamedov (5-11, 225, OL, Sr.); Brody Taylor (6-2, 270, OL, Sr.); Mohamed Cisse (5-11, 274, OL, Sr.); Ricky Garmon (5-10, 225, LB, Sr.).

Key newcomers: Sidnee Westbrook (6-2, 190, WR/DB, Sr. — formerly of North Mecklenburg); Noah Dailey (6-1, 165, QB, Fr. — formerly of Community House Middle School).

Outlook: Ardrey Kell has an experienced offensive line and a star in receiver Khy’lieb Rodriguez. First-year coach Carter Greene must work on a defense that returns only two starters.

BALLANTYNE RIDGE

Head coach: Tyson Fernandez (2-8, 2nd year)

2025 record: 2-8

Returning starters: 3

Key returnees: Zion Caeser (6-1, 170, WR, 2029); Holden Jones (5-10, 210, LB, 2028); Leo Ntsain (5-10, 215, LB, 2028); Nate Nwasike (5-11, 240, DL, 2028); Jayden Krause (6-3, 190, TE, 2028); Ryder Polston (5-9, 170, Ath., 2028); Evan Gautraux (6-5, 210, OLB, 2027); Rico Johnson (5-11, 175, DB, 2029); Devin Delfino (6-0, 175, DB, 2028); Julien Montgomery (6-2, 260, DL, 2028).

Key newcomers: Ryan Rizutti (6-2, 185, QB, 2028); Bryan Inneh (5-11, 180, RB, 2029); Zayden Jeter (6-2, 200, DL, 2029); Grayson Johnson (6-0, 175, DB, 2028).

Outlook: Ballantyne Ridge starts its third year as a program, and it’s the second year as head coach for Fernandez, who was defensive coordinator in Year 1. He said 90% of the team is returning — and it has good depth on the offensive line. Sophomore Zion Caesar had a team-high 447 yards receiving as a freshman. He’s one to keep an eye on.

BERRY

Head coach: Darius Robinson (3-17, 3rd year)

2025 record: 0-10

Returning starters: 9

Key returnees: Saron Cooper (5-10, 165, DB, Jr. — All-Conference Honorable Mention); Noah Brown (5-11, 185, Ath., Jr. — All-Conference); KJ Ellis (5-11, 190, Ath., Jr. — All-Conference Honorable Mention); Nana Mensah (6-1, 175, WR, Sr.); Bryss Blackshear (6-0, 205, EDGE/LB, Jr.); Andrew Barrett (6-0, 295, OL/DL, Sr.); Chris Brown (5-10, 215, RB, Jr.).

Outlook: With three all-conference honorable mention returnees among nine starters back, Berry aims to end its 12-game losing streak.

BRADFORD PREP

Head coach: Adam Webber (1st year)

2025 record: First-year varsity team

Returning starters: 0

Key newcomers: Noah Shorts (6-3, QB, Jr.); Josh Caves (6-1, Ath., Jr.); Tyler Gunter (6-2, DL, Soph.); Blake Askew (6-0, OL/DL, Soph.); Anthony Chmielewski (5-10, Ath., Soph.); Damier Watson (6-2, DL, Jr.); EJ Threatt (6-4, OL, Soph.); Gervais Copeland (6-2, Ath., Soph.); Amir Puranda (5-9, RB/LB, Jr. — Independence transfer); Amari Puranda (5-8, Ath. — Independence transfer); Yasheem Smith (6-2, Ath. — Chambers transfer); Ashton Sherrod (5-9, Ath. — Chambers transfer); Dean Benbow (6-2, DL — Mallard Creek transfer); Blake Bigelow (6-2, OLB — Chambers transfer).

Outlook: Webber has played and coached on powerhouse teams at Shelby and Independence. Now he wants to use that experience to quickly develop a winner at Bradford Prep, a charter school. He said some of his athletes can play all over the field, but knows it will take time to figure out where to put the pieces.

BUTLER

Head coach: Donald Littlejohn (1st year)

2025 record: 5-7

Returning starters: 16

Key returnees: Lucas Culberson (6-0, 190, WR, 2027); Damourion Thomas Wright (6-2, 220, RB, 2027 — All-Conference); Matthew Shields (6-0, 215, LB, 2027 — All-Conference); Niko Henderson (6-1, 175, QB, 2027); DJ Starling (5-8, 175, WR/RB/KR, 2027); Israel Houston (6-1, 190, DB, 2027); Julio Conde (6-2, 220, TE/DE, 2027).

Key newcomers: Christian Liles (5-10, 180, RB/DB, 2027); Elyejah Jackson (6-0, 180, LB, 2027 — All-Conference).

Outlook: With 16 starters back and two all-conference players, Littlejohn starts Year 1 with some talent. The coach plans a fast-paced no-huddle offense and says the Bulldogs defense has gotten stronger and faster, too.

CHAMBERS

Head coach: Captain Munnerlyn (5-7, 2nd year)

2025 record: 5-7

Returning starters: 10

Key returnees: Marley Vincent (5-10, 180, DB, 2027); Ahmire Byrd (6-2, 190, DE, 2028 — All-Conference); Jymel Green (6-0, 178, CB, 2029); Dior Carter (5-10, 170, WR, 2029 — All-Conference); Allex “AJ” Jenkins (5-10, 180, DB/LB, 2027 — All-Conference); Malachi Gant (5-9, 170, WR, 2027); Tahj Brooks (5-9, 180, RB, 2028).

Key newcomers: Jamouri Nichols (6-0, 180, QB, 2027 — West Charlotte); Keland Shelton (6-3, 215, DB, 2027 — Providence High).

Outlook: With 10 starters back and nearly a dozen transfers, including former West Charlotte state championship MVP quarterback Jamouri Nichols, Munnerlyn — the Carolina Panthers star — thinks his team is ready to move back into the North Carolina football elite tier. On paper, the Cougars have the talent to get there.

CHARLOTTE CATHOLIC

Head coach: Mike Brodowicz (110-15 overall)

2025 record: 7-5

Returning starters: 5

Key returnees: Will Johnson (6-1, 275, OT, Sr.); Chase Kummer (6-2, 210, QB, Sr.); Merriot Valentine (5-11, 210, NG, Sr.); Frank O’Brian (5-10, 185, WB, Sr.); Will Bishop (6-0, 210, OG, Sr.); Jake Ruminski (5-10, 185, LS/MLB, Sr.); Aiden Flynn (5-9, 160, K, Sr.); Alex Broome (6-0, 180, OLB/WR, Sr.); TJ Linnert (5-10, 190, RB, Sr.); Andrew McCarter (6-4, 235, OT, Jr.); Jude Spisso (6-1, 185, TE/P, Jr.); Jackson Williamson (6-5, 250, Soph.); Charles Patrick (5-10, 185, CB/WR, Sr.); Sam Kaupp (5-10, 200, OLB/FB, Sr.); Jack McCarter (5-11, 255, C, Sr.); Declan O’Neill (5-11, 165, FS, Jr.); Rylan Linnert (5-9, 160, CB, Jr.); Max Whelen (6-0, 185, FB, Jr.); Harper Costello (5-10, 200, DE, Jr.); Connor Hill (6-0, 195, TE, Jr.); RJ Witterstaeter (6-0, 201, OG, Jr.); Paul Zaremba (6-1, 170, SS, Soph.); Hudson Rowe (5-9, 175, OLB, Soph.); Carson Chadha (6-0, 225, OG/DE, Soph.); Landon Gallagher (6-1, 202, DE, Soph.); Brady Williams (6-0, 190, MLB, Soph.).

Key newcomers: Nick Mazzei (5-9, 155, OLB, Sr.); Dom Becks (5-9, 165, CB, Sr.); Brendon Anderson (5-11, 170, WB, Sr.).

Outlook: Catholic hasn’t been the same since Brodowicz left in 2022, after winning 110 games and five state titles from 2014-22. Since he left, the Cougars have had two coaches in four years — after having just two from 1973-2022. Catholic has not had a losing season in 27 years but Brodowicz hopes to bring the magic back to the program. He expects his offensive line to be a strength and a young defensive line to develop into one.

CHRIST THE KING

Head coach: Charlie Jackson (2nd season, 7-4)

2025 record: 7-4

Returning starters: 16

Key returnees: Carter Stevens (6-0, 185, WR/FS, Sr. — 15.7 YPC, 11 TDs, 6 INTs; All Catawba Shores 2025); Caden Fritz (5-8, 175, LB/RB, Sr. — 240 career tackles, 11.5 TFLs; All Catawba Shores 2025); Thomas Semler (6-7, 270, LT, Jr.); Jameson Ehret (6-0, 190, QB, Sr. — 2,800 passing yards, 30 career TDs); Noah Bernicke (6-0, 180, LB, Sr. — 74 tackles, 5 TFLs); Bryson Dejong (6-4, 190, DE/TE, Sr.); Juan Cassanova (6-1, 190, NT — 63 tackles, 9.5 TFLs, 5.5 sacks).

Outlook: Christ The King returns a lot of talent, and experience, from a 7-4 team. That includes nine starters back on a defensive unit that allowed 15 points per game in 2025.

COMMUNITY SCHOOL OF DAVIDSON

Head coach: Kenneth McClamrock

2025 record: 7-5

Returning starters: 10

Key returnees: Matthew Worley (6-4, 285, OL, 2027 — multiple college offers); Liam Carneiro (6-0, 170, K/P, 2027 — multiple D1 offers); Ty Sigler (6-1, 185, QB, 2027); Nixon Willis (5-8, 185, RB, 2027); Cade Rasmussen (6-2, 185, OLB, 2027); Lawson Sherman (LB, 2028); Colin McWilliams (DL, 2027).

Key newcomers: Silas Brister (WR/DB, 2027); Jack Browning (WR/DB, 2028).

Outlook: McClamrock starts at Community School with a fairly deep and experienced team, including senior lineman Matthew Worley, who has committed to Davidson. Community School reached the second round of the playoffs last season and aims to top that in ‘26.

CORVIAN

Head coach: Chris Amill (5th year, 36-13)

2025 record: 10-2

Returning starters: 8

Key returnees: Nate Kamba; Jesiah Fields; Cameron Simpson; Desmond Walker; Cameron Clark; Tyson Douglas-Brown; Brock Spaulding; Kelvin Stinson; Chaz Campbell; TJ Jones.

Key newcomer: Collin Jeffries (Fr.)

Outlook: Amill has developed Corvian into an N.C. small-school state power. His team should make another deep playoff run in November.

GARINGER

Head coach: Jupiter Wilson (2nd year at Garinger, 50-82 overall)

2025 record: 1-9

Returning starters: 15

Key returnees: Jacob Andrews (6-0, 215, QB/FB/DE, Sr. — All-Conference FB); Tristan Murphy (6-1, 180, QB/WR, Sr.); Laro Thompson (5-10, 165, RB/WR/S, Jr.); Z’Kuario Woods (6-2, 275, OL/DL, Sr.); Zach Peebles (6-1, 180, DB/WR, Jr.); Delorence Henderson (5-10, 180, DB/WR, Jr.); Raquan Kirkland (6-1, 190, RB/LB, Soph.); Tyrese Upshur (5-11, 185, LB/WR, Jr.); Queshuan Miller (6-0, 185, LB/RB, Jr.); Mashon Daniels (5-11, 180, LB/RB, Sr.); Chris Griffin (5-11, 275, OL/DL, Sr.); Jabron Tann (6-4, 245, OL/DL, Jr.); Cadonis Jamison (6-1, 220, OL/DL, Sr.); Jeremy Higgs (5-11, 250, OL/DL, Jr.); Eliel Mangala (6-1, 225, OL/DL, Sr.); Tim Stewart (CB/WR, Soph.); Spenser Guest Burns (6-5, 300, OL/DL, Jr.); Romeo Ognodo (5-10, 165, OLB/DB); Demarco Whitmire (6-0, 275, OL/DL, Jr.).

Key newcomers: Dasir Fallen (6-1, 235, OL/DL, Jr.); Jose Callaberos (5-11, 250, OL/DL, Soph.); Joel Mason (5-10, 175, WR/DB, Jr.).

Outlook: Garinger ended a 48-game losing streak last season and was more competitive in games than it had been in years. With a full off-season under Wilson, the Wildcats look bigger and stronger and want to win more than just one game in 2026. It’s very possible.

HARDING

Head coach: Terrence Cunningham (2nd year, 2-8)

2025 record: 2-8

Returning starters:

Key returnees: Daniel Carter III (6-4, 195, Ath., Jr. — 2025 All-Conference Honorable Mention); Jamarcus Hairston (5-7, 235, RB/DL, Jr. — 2025 All-Conference; second in CMS rushing yards in 2025); Trenton Bynum (6-0, 175, Ath., Jr. — 2025 All-Conference Honorable Mention); ZayQuan Massey-Brice (5-7, 165, Ath., Soph.); DeCarlos Brown (6-4, 250, TE/DL, Sr. — committed to Davidson College; currently ranked among the top two GPAs in Harding’s 2027 graduating class); Knowledge Harris (5-11, 305, OL, Jr.); Randon Mpilu (6-1, 270, OL/DL, Sr.); Zachary Wilson (5-10, 270, OL, Sr.).

Key newcomers: Tytan Smith (6-1, 270, QB, Sr. — Palisades High School transfer); Amari Watkins (5-11, 175, DB/SS, Jr. — White Knoll High School, South Carolina, transfer); Zymarion Cherry (5-11, 170, DB, Soph. — West Charlotte High School); Nasir Crank (5-7, 155, DB, Fr. — Wilson STEM Academy); Ashton Covington (5-9, 165, Ath., Soph. — Harding High School basketball player; first year of football); JahNeir Haigbea (5-9, 165, WR/DB, Jr. — Harding football newcomer).

Outlook: The smallest public school in CMS, Harding has challenges that many of its neighbors don’t face. But Cunningham has some all-conference talent on the roster and said 90% of the team has been together for three years. “We believe,” Cunningham said, “we have physically and mentally grown up and are in the best position physically and mentally to compete in our conference.”

HOPEWELL

Head coach: Brandon Sneed (2nd year)

2025 record: 4-7

Returning starters: 15

Key returnees: Miles Vanderspuy (5-7, 170, Ath., Sr. — Conference Specialist of the Year; played QB, RB, TE, WR, DB, LB, KR and PR); Naiel Brooks (5-8, 170, LB, Soph. — All-Conference as a freshman); Chase Phifer (6-4, 215, Ath./DE, Jr.); Bradley Kule (6-3, 255, OT/DL, Jr.); Devon Misher (6-3, 250, IOL, Sr.); CJ Johnson (6-1, 175, DB, Sr.); Tyler Velardi (6-0, 200, DE, Sr.); Ladianian Bristol (6-0, 200, OLB/DE, Sr.); Isaiah Agee (5-8, 165, DB, Sr.); Jacob Beeson (6-2, 330, OL, Sr.); Kareem Marshall (5-8, 185, RB, Sr. — 600-plus rushing yards, 6.0-plus yards per carry); JT Williams (5-8, 155, WR, Sr.); Xavier Mosley (5-10, 160, DB, Sr.); Miliano Zamora (6-0, 175, HB, Sr.).

Key newcomers: Damo’n Broussard (5-11, 200, RB, Jr. — Carson; two-time All-County and two-time All-Conference; 86 carries for 684 yards and 7 TDs in 8 games as a sophomore); Antonio Jenkins (5-11, 185, QB/Ath., Jr. — North Mecklenburg); Jordan Moore (6-2, 200, WR/QB/Ath., Sr. — West Charlotte); Aaron Brown (6-2, 290, OL, Jr. — Mallard Creek); Shiloh Graham (6-3, 185, DB/Ath., — Mallard Creek); Chandler Leach (5-10, 170, DB, Jr. — Hough).

Outlook: After a breakthrough first season, Sneed appears to have the Titans heading on the right track. He plans to keep his high-octane offense intact, running and passing behind a big and strong offensive line. The question mark is on the defensive front. If Sneed and Hopewell can figure that out …. watch out.

HOUGH

Head coach: DeShawn Baker (4th season)

2025 record: 14-0

Returning starters: 8

Key returnees: Ethan Royal (6-1, 185, QB); Jahmere Anderson (6-1, WR); Tauatevalu Tuionetoa (6-2, OL); Mason Pearsall-Brown (6-2, WR); Jackson Heath (5-11, 185, S); Jonah Holloaway (5-10, S); Ryan Peterson (6-0, 220, LB); Charlie Puckett (6-0, 220, LB).

Key newcomers: Jay’den Brown (DL); Maddox Thompson (WR); Davion Jones (DB); Sincere Daye (DB); Josh Dobson (DB); DL Cory Cunningham (DL)

Outlook: The 2025 state champions are better, on paper, than a year ago. Dobson, a 5-star safety, has one of the nation’s top 5 NIL money evaluations. Jones is a 4-star. QB Ethan Royal was state championship MVP. The Huskies, if they can navigate a wicked schedule, could turn out to be a historically good team.

INDEPENDENCE

Head coach: Robert Williams (1st year)

2025 record: 10-3

Returning starters: 3

Key returnees: Bruscuttly Maxine (6-0, 225, DE, 2027); Kevin Powell III (6-5, 210, S, 2027); Noah Wright (6-0, 185, Ath.).

Outlook: Williams takes over an Independence team that’s had four double-digit winning seasons in a row under former coach DJ McFadden, who is now at West Charlotte. Williams, the defensive coordinator at West Charlotte last season, says depth will be a team strength this season with a lot of returnees back from last season’s team.

LAKE NORMAN CHARTER

Head coach: Matthew Montroy (19-10, 4th season)

2025 record: 5-6

Returning starters: 14

Key returnees: Dylan Wignot (5-11, 175, QB, Sr. — passed for more than 2,000 yards, broke school records, 20-plus TDs, All-Conference); Asher Church (6-0, 210, OL/DL, Sr.); Baiyin Ji (6-1, 250, OL/DL, Sr.); Wyatt Herron (6-2, 290, OL/DL, Sr.); Chase Gentile (5-6, 175, RB/DB, Sr.); Logan Frate (5-7, 190, LB, Sr.); Tristan English (5-11, 180, WR/DB, Sr.); Devin Chiu (5-7, 170, WR, Sr.); Eli Washington (5-6, 150, WR/DB, Jr.); Tiger Mukendi (5-10, 195, LB/H, Jr.); Colton Clark (5-10, 215, LB/H, Jr.); Haze Dodson (5-11, 200, RB, Soph. — approximately 1,000 rushing yards as a freshman; Honorable Mention All-Conference).

Key newcomers: Nathaniel Hines (6-0, 245, OL/DL); Christian Pendergrass (6-3, 275, OL/DL); Alexander Milcarek (5-6, 145, K).

Outlook: With seven starters back on both sides of the ball, Lake Norman Charter is poised to make a return to the playoffs.

MALLARD CREEK

Head coach: Kennedy Tinsley (8th year)

2025 record: 7-4

Returning starters: 14

Key returnees: Austin Ballou (6-8, 340, OT, 2028 — All-Conference); Cailen Napier (6-3, 205, QB, 2028); Xzavier Edmond (5-9, 190, RB, 2028 — All-Conference); Geremiah Mobley (6-3, 250, DE/DL, 2028 — All-Conference); Dorian Dailey (5-11, 180, DB, 2027); Achraf Ouardi (6-4, 275, OT, 2028); Ismail Abdul-Ali (6-3, 210, TE, 2027); Jordan Isaiah (6-1, 175, DB, 2027); Devin Dukes (6-1, 185, WR, 2027); Javion McMullen (5-9, 165, DB, 2028); Elijah Newton (5-10, 330, OL, 2027); Kaiden Okam (6-4, 260, DL, 2029); Jaiden Cuff (6-1, 280, DL, 2028); Michael Heard (6-4, 340, OL/DL, 2028); Joshua Person (5-9, 190, RB, 2028); Antonio Fokes (5-10, 200, LB/RB, 2027); Isaiah Johnson (5-11, 220, LB, 2028); Deron Powell (6-3, 240, DE, 2028).

Key newcomers: Tyrell Barze (6-1, 190, Ath., 2028); RJ Roseboro (6-1, 170, WR, 2028); Ky-Mani Scruse (5-10, 170, Ath., 2027).

Outlook: Coach Tinsley, named as a head coach for this year’s Under Armour All-American game, is high on this team. He thinks the Mavericks will be able to run the ball and stop it. The team has monstrous size. The question, as it’s been for several years, is whether they can throw the ball. If that develops, watch out, Mallard Creek’s 20th season of football could be special.

MYERS PARK

Head coach: Duke Howell (1st season at Myers Park, 16-17 overall)

2025 record: 9-3

Returning starters: 5

Key returnees: Ramir Watson (6-0, 185, QB, 2027); Kam Guy (6-0, 190, S/WR, 2027); George Tsigaridas (6-7, 335, OL, 2027); Joseph Meyer (6-2, 280, OL, 2027); Connor Mullally (6-1, 305, OL, 2027); Diego Lewis (6-3, 255, DL, 2027).

Key newcomers: Shaq Drayton (6-3, 225, DE/RB, 2029); Ethan Johnson (6-3, 215, DE, 2029); Aiden Burke (6-4.5, 195, WR, 2027 — Cuthbertson); Will Morton (6-0, 205, SS — Charlotte Latin); Bockarie Sesay (6-0, 250, DL, 2029); Jacon Miller (6-3, 190, WR/LB, 2029).

Outlook: Myers Park graduated a large senior class, and Howell, in his first season, will need his remaining seniors to play a big role on a young, but talented team.

OLYMPIC

Head coach: Brandon Thompson (8th year, 51-23)

2025 record: 9-3

Returning starters: 7

Key returnees: Kenyan White (6-2, 190, LB, Sr. — 2025 Defensive Conference Player of the Year); Isaiah Ford (6-4, 240, DL, Sr. — 2025 All-Conference; three-year varsity starter); Ahmir Boulware (5-11, 170, WR, Sr. — three-year starter); Travis Pee (5-11, 180, DB, Sr. — 2025 All-Conference; three-year varsity starter); Conner Lewis (6-1, 185, DB, Sr. — two-year varsity starter; allowed no TDs in 2025); L’Darius Young (5-11, 250, OL, Sr. — three-year varsity starter); David McAdams (5-10, 180, WR, Sr. — two-year varsity starter; 500-plus receiving yards as a junior).

Key newcomers: Ravion Pauling (5-10, 180, RB, Jr. — South Mecklenburg); Tristen Ivey (6-2, 300, OL, Jr. — New Bern); Jorrad Dials (6-0, 210, LB, Sr. — Bunker Hill); Michael Mull Jr. (5-11, 185, QB, Jr. — Archbishop Hoban, Ohio); Chase Thompson (6-0, 170, QB, Soph. — Palisades).

Outlook: Olympic returns lots of experience on its defensive line, but is trying to develop its offensive line. New Bern transfer Tristen Ivey, a 6-2, 300-pound junior, may help with that. The Trojans should again battle AL Brown for the league title.

PALISADES

Head coach: Jonathan Simmons (21-24, 5th year)

2025 record: 8-4

Returning starters: 11

Key returnees: Cole Hough (6-0, 180, QB, Sr. — All-Conference); Nick Rankin (6-0, 175, Ath., Sr. — All-Conference); Hudson Nolden (6-3, 230, TE, Sr. — All-Conference); Ephraim Holmes (6-4, 290, OL, Jr. — All-Conference); Noah Bolden (6-3, 265, DL, Sr.); Tim Hames (6-0, 285, OL, Jr.); Jacob Black (6-1, 210, DL/LB, Sr.); Zyquis Wall (5-11, 180, DB, Jr.); Donnovan Brown (6-3, 215, DL, Sr.).

Key newcomers: Jeremiah Holt (6-0, 165, DB, Sr.); Izayah Davis (5-10, 180, RB, Sr.); Kai Smith (6-4, 300, OL, Jr.); Somorian Wilson (6-3, 265, OL/DL, Soph.); Riley Hicks (6-0, 180, WR, Sr.).

Outlook: Palisades wants to join the elite teams in Mecklenburg County and returns 11 starters with a conference championship goal. All-conference QB Cole Hough returns with several skill players and the Pumas’ defensive line should be a strength as well. About the only question mark is at linebacker, where Palisades will be working new players in.

PINE LAKE PREP

Head coach: Austin Trotter (8th season, 39-34)

2025 record: 2-8

Returning starters: 4

Key returnees: TJ Kieffer (5-11, 190, LB, Sr. — 104 tackles, 337 career tackles); Paul Mahoney (6-2, 265, OL/DL, Jr. — All-Conference); Eli Lewis (6-2, 220, OL/DL, Soph.); Logan Pettit (6-1, 205, RB, Jr.); Mark Mahoney (5-11, 175, WR/RB/DB, Soph.); Donovan Murphy (5-11, 165, S, Jr. — All-Conference Honorable Mention); Bo Macy (6-0, 160, WR, Sr.).

Key newcomer: Eyan Mann (6-0, 170, WR, Sr.)

Outlook: Four-year starter TJ Kieffer returns at middle linebacker. He has more than 300 career tackles. Around him, 16 of the 22 starters were freshmen or sophomores in 2025. Trotter hopes those players’ experience will help, and he’s looking for big seasons out of RB Logan Pettit, athlete Mark Mahoney and lineman Eli Lewis to turn his team’s fortunes around.

PROVIDENCE

Head coach: Perry Osbey (1st year)

2025 record: 8-4

Returning starters: 15

Key returnees: Luke Meador (6-1, 180, QB, Sr.); Kaleb Vines (5-10, 185, RB, Sr.); Liam Drayton (6-5, 220, DL, Sr.); Alex Haywood (6-5, 235, TE, Sr.); Otavio Oliveira (5-11, 180, WR, Sr.); Bryce Taylor (5-10, 170, DB, Sr.); Malachi Matthews (5-10, 205, LB, Jr.).

Key newcomers: Andrew Giordano (5-11, 200, LB, Jr.); Jackson Burton (6-0, 170, DB, Soph.).

Outlook: Osbey takes over the team after former Panthers’ coach Wes Ward left for a job out of state. Returning QB Luke Meador is back with several talented skill position players. Liam Drayton, who had 6 sacks last season returns to lead the defense, and six Panthers overall have Division I offers. Osbey has a team that can contend, and win, a second straight league title.

ROCKY RIVER

Head coach: Shon Galloway

2025 record: 3-7

Returning starters: 2

Key returnees: Santana Loudermilk Jr. (6-0, 160, DB/WR, Sr.); Carter Breland (6-0, 200, LB, Sr.); Jordyn Ragan (5-10, 200, DE, Sr.); Kayden Price (6-4, 205, DE/TE, Sr.); Xavion Lindsey (5-7, 160, WR/DB); Richard Miller (6-0, 280, OL/DL, Sr.); Dane Mukendi (5-11, 200, LB/RB, Jr.).

Key newcomers: Ricky Lorrick (6-3, 185, DB/WR, Sr.); Stevie Bethea (5-10, 185, RB, Sr.); Terrell Boulware (5-8, 175, DB, Jr.); Amir Anderson (5-11, 170, DB, Sr.).

Outlook: Rocky River has only four players with serious Friday night experience, but first-year coach Galloway loves his team’s attitude. He said the Ravens are positive heading into opening week, and he thinks Loudermilk (3 interceptions last season), Price and Ragan (34.5 tackles, 10.5 TFL, 3.5 sacks) can be team stars.

SOUTH MECKLENBURG

Head coach: Joe Evans (8th year, 64-54)

2025 record: 7-4

Returning starters: 8

Key returnees: Jacob Rothfuss (6-0, 225, DL, Sr.); Daniel Bregman (6-0, 180, DB/WR, Sr.); Knox Moon (6-0, 180, WR, Jr.); Brendan Hall (6-7, 305, OL, Jr.); Xavier Lopez Cruz (5-8, 160, WR/DB); Amir Gillispie (6-0, 185, DB/WR, Jr.); Adisa Abubakari (6-0, 200, LB, Sr.); Lamin Bangura (6-2, 260, DL, Sr.); Aidan Bedford (6-0, 190, QB, Sr.); David McNair (6-4, 230, DL, Soph.).

Outlook: After playing all of its games on the road last season while CMS built the Sabres a new school, South Meck will debut its brand-new field Aug. 28 against Community School of Davidson. The Sabres are poised to make another postseason playoff appearance.

WEST CHARLOTTE

Head coach: DJ McFadden (47-15 overall)

2025 record: 10-3

Returning starters: 3

Key returnees: Emori McClain Jr. (5-11, 185, RB, Sr. — 61 carries, 316 rushing yards, 3 TDs); Kaden Smith (6-1, 225, LB/DE, Sr. — 49 tackles, 28 solo, 14 TFLs, 9 sacks); Demari Wallace (6-4, 355, DT, Sr. — 27 tackles, 4 hurries, 2 sacks); Jessiah Whitlock (5-9, 175, DB, Sr.); Lorenzo Drakeford (6-0, 265, OL, Sr.); JD McDonald (5-8, 165, WR, Sr.).

Key newcomers: JT Heath (5-11, 175, DB, Soph.); Jachai Rankin (5-11, 170, WR, Jr.); Josiah Carr (6-6, 275, OL, Jr.); Shiloh Rhodes (6-5, 235, DE/TE, Fr.); Zaivion Marable (6-0, 225, LB, Jr.); Zayveon Skeen (6-1, 170, DB, Jr.).

Outlook: McFadden rebuilt Independence into a winner and now takes over at a school with a much deeper talent pool. West Charlotte lost 12 players to transfer after making the regional finals in December, but McFadden says the young players who remain, and who have been undefeated on junior varsity, will surprise people. He said the Lions will have size and speed, but will have to grow up quick.

WEST MECKLENBURG

Head coach: Randall Ingram (1st year)

2025 record: 1-10

Returning starters: 6

Key returnees: Drake Lineberger (5-11, 165, QB, Soph.); Dylan Lineberger (6-1, 175, S, Soph.); Amaree Jones (6-2, 165, S, Sr.); Martiques Taylor (5-10, 180, WLB, Jr.); Tony Hodges (6-2, 240, OG, Jr.); Cameron Walker (5-11, 240, DL, Jr.); DJ Hamrick (6-3, 255, OT, Soph.).

Key newcomers: Cameron Wright (5-8, 155, WR, Jr.); Jayden Huff (5-11, 175, RB, Sr.).

Outlook: Ingram, a former high school star in Mecklenburg County, gets his first head coaching job and will try to rebuild West Mecklenburg, which has had some success. He has a young team without much experience, but that will give him a chance to build from the ground up.

Austin Ballou, Mallard Creek: The 6-8, 340-pound junior offensive lineman anchors one of the area’s biggest front lines. Ballou was all-conference as a sophomore in arguably the state’s toughest conference, the Meck Power 6, last season.

Saron Cooper, Berry: As a sophomore, Cooper had 52 tackles and an interception, earning honorable mention all-conference honors.

Cory Cunningham, Hough: A Providence High transfer, Cunningham is a 6-3, 265-pound senior ranked by 247 Sports as the nation’s No. 17 recruit at defensive line in his class. He has offers from Auburn, Georgia, Michigan and Miami, among others.

Joshua Dobson, Hough: A 5-star defensive back committed to South Carolina, Dobson has a $1.4 million NIL evaluation that is top 5 nationally for high school players.

Tyson Douglas-Brown, Corvian Community: Brown threw for 1,797 yards and 23 touchdowns as a freshman, while rushing for 402 yards and four more scores.

Xzavier Edmond, Mallard Creek: As a sophomore, Edmonds was named all-conference in the Meck Power 6 and ran 101 times for 705 yards and 8 scores. His usage rate will increase this season.

OL: Moreno Fisher, Hough: The 6-7, 270-pound senior anchors one of the region’s top offensive attacks. He’s committed to Virginia.

Jymel Green, Chambers: The 6-1, 155-pound sophomore already has offers from schools like Auburn, Florida and Florida State. He’ll team with senior Marley Vincent (30 tackles, 4 TFL) to give the Cougars a solid defensive backfield.

Michael Griffin, Hough: The West Charlotte transfer is moving from linebacker to defensive back. Last season, he had 86 tackles, including 18 for a loss and 5.5 sacks.

Kam Guy, Myers Park: A senior safety/wide receiver, Guy returns after getting 33 tackles and 5 interceptions last season.

Jamarcus Hairston, Harding: The 5-7, 235-pound running back/defensive lineman was an offensive engine for his team last year. He ran 181 times for 891 yards and 10 touchdowns, making all-conference.

Ephraim Holmes, Palisades: The 6-4, 290-pound offensive tackle returns for his senior year after being all-conference in 2025. He’s got offers from schools like App State, East Carolina, South Florida and Temple.

Cole Hough, Palisades: The all-conference quarterback returns after throwing for 2,189 yards and 17 touchdowns last season.

Davion Jones, Hough: A 4-star safety committed to South Carolina, Jones had more than 50 tackles and 4 interceptions at West Charlotte last season.

Nate Kamba, Corvian Community: Auburn commit was heavily double-teamed last season, finishing with 28 tackles, 16 tackles for a loss and three sacks.

Luke Meador, Providence: The senior QB threw for 1,589 yards and 18 touchdowns last season, leading Providence to a second round playoff berth. With receiver Octavio Olivera back (he missed most of ‘25 with injury but had 54 catches as a sophomore), Meador could improve his junior year production.

Geremiah Mobley, Mallard Creek: The 6-3, 250-pound senior defensive lineman was all-conference last season.

Jamouri Nichols, Chambers: At West Charlotte, Nichols developed into one of the area’s top and winningest quarterbacks. The former state championship MVP threw for 2,005 yards and 20 touchdowns and ran for 518 yards and 13 touchdowns last season.

Ryan Peterson, Hough: The 6-0, 220-pound junior linebacker was named his team’s defensive MVP in the state championship game. Peterson finished the season with 72 tackles, nine tackles for a loss, two sacks, two fumble recoveries and an interception. He was a first team All-Observer pick as a sophomore.

Nick Rankin, Palisades: The 6-foot, 175-pounder was all-conference last season and plays a multitude of places on the field. Last year, he had 70 tackles on defense, 3 interceptions, plus he threw a pass, ran for 247 yards and 7 touchdowns and he caught 7 passes for 149 yards and another score.

Khy’lieb Rodriguez, Ardrey Kell: Senior receiver burst onto the scene last season and vaulted up the recruiting rankings. He had 755 yards receiving and has committed to N.C. State.

Ethan Royal, Hough: The state championship MVP threw for 2,272 yards and 29 touchdowns and he ran for 721 yards and 14 touchdowns. He’s committed to Marshall.

Keland Shelton, Chambers: Shelton was a second-team All-Observer pick last season. The 6-3, 215-pound linebacker/safety, a Providence High transfer, had 89 tackles, 13 tackles for a loss and 8 sacks last season.

Matthew Shields, Butler: The 6-0, 215-pound senior linebacker was all-conference last season when he had a team-high 127 tackles, 16 tackles for a loss, 2.5 sacks and 2 interceptions.

Ty Sigler, Community School of Davidson: QB threw for 2,642 yards and 26 touchdowns as a junior.

Kaden Smith, West Charlotte: A 6-1, 225-pound senior linebacker/defensive end, Smith had 49 tackles, including 28 solo last season. He had 14 tackles for a loss and 9 sacks for one of the state’s best defenses.

Carter Stevens, Christ The King: Stevens caught 30 passes for 471 yards and 7 TDs, averaging nearly 16 yards per catch. On defense, the all-conference star had 34 tackles and 6 interceptions.

Damourion Thomas Wright, Butler: The 6-2, 220-pound senior running back was all-conference last season, when he ran 197 times for 1,367 yards and 11 touchdowns. He said his goal this year is 2,000.

Miles Vanderspuy, Hopewell: The Greater Charlotte conference specialist of the year as a junior, Vanderspuy played QB, RB, TE, WR, DB, LB, KR and PR in 2025. He averaged 82 yards per game on offense and had 26 tackles on defense.

Kaleb Vines, Providence: The 5-10, 185-pound senior running back ran 142 times for 855 yards and 10 touchdowns as a junior and caught 26 passes for 371 yards and another score.

Kenyan White, Olympic: White was the 2025 Greater Metro conference defensive player of the year after getting 113 total tackles, eight tackles for a loss, 3 interceptions and 2 sacks.

CATAWBA SHORES 1A/2A/3A

1. Corvian

2. Christ the King

3. Lake Norman Charter

4. Community School of Davidson

5. Pine Lake Prep

6. Langtree Charter

7. Lincoln Charter

8. Bradford Prep

GREATER CHARLOTTE 7A/8A