GAMES
RANKINGS
The featured standouts of the 2026–27 Shadow Creek Sharks football team.
VYPE Houston 2026 Football Preview | District 19-6A: Star-Studded Shadow Creek Chases Pearland’s Title
Pearland Oilers
Manvel Mavericks
Dawson Eagles
Dobie Longhorns
Brazoswood Buccaneers
Sam Rayburn Texans
Alvin Yellowjackets
Pasadena Memorial Mavericks
*Teams in bold are projected playoff contenders
...
VYPE PRESEASON AWARDS
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER: Tavis Coleman, Shadow Creek
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Royce Swan, Pearland
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Karnell “Greedy” James, Manvel
BREAKOUT PLAYER OF THE YEAR: BJ LaFell, Shadow Creek
ON THE CUSP: Dobie Longhorns
...
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE THE 2026 VYPE HOUSTON FOOTBALL MAGAZINE
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE PHOTOS FROM THE 2026 CITYWIDE PHOTOSHOOT
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE DIGITAL MAGAZINE
Pearland Oilers
Farrah Sheeren (VYPE)
...
A sense of unfinished business surrounds Shadow Creek as the fall approaches. Despite an 8-4 result, third place in the district standings brought the Sharks’ championship streak to an end in 2025, and their postseason journey ended in the Area Round against C.E. King. Now begins the redemption arc. In his third season at the helm, head coach Tyrone Green may have the most complete roster of his tenure. Few players possess the upside of Jaylen Addai. The electrifying wideout is ranked among the premier Class of 2028 prospects in Texas and boasts an offer sheet that includes Ohio State, Michigan, Texas, Notre Dame, Miami, and Alabama. Fresh off District 22-6A Offensive Newcomer of the Year honors, Addai totaled nearly 1,200 all-purpose yards and 16 scores while flashing the athletic traits that make him a matchup nightmare. Orchestrating the offense will be senior quarterback Tavis Coleman, a McNeese State commit who secured first-team all-district recognition after throwing for nearly 2,000 yards and 37 touchdowns. His arsenal includes Addai, three-star wide receiver Aden Starling, and future Ragin’ Cajun Bryce Coleman, while sophomore athlete BJ LaFell provides another dynamic piece capable of impacting every phase. On defense, Michigan-bound senior Xavier Muhammad arrives from South Houston to give Shadow Creek a formidable four-star presence off the edge. First-team cornerback Brandon Sherrard (Texas) and safety Kevin Jackson II (Maryland) round out a loaded secondary, tasked with containing opposing receiving corps.
...
Following the program’s first district title since 2018, Pearland delivered an 11-1 finish a year ago, capturing the crown undefeated before seeing its playoff run narrowly derailed by Dickinson, 28-21, in the second round. The Oilers’ identity will continue to be rooted in defensive excellence, as the unit surrendered fewer than 14 points per game under coach BJ Gotte. Standing at 6-foot-3, senior DeMarco Jenkins is an absolute menace in the trenches, with the Miami commit totaling 48 tackles—including 17 for loss—and seven sacks en route to first-team all-district recognition. Factor in first-team corner Edward Smith, second-team outside linebacker Kamryn Harris, and fellow senior Taylan Alviza anchoring the defensive line, and Pearland’s bread-and-butter should remain as disruptive as ever. Then comes the challenge of reloading offensively, with the graduation of unanimous first-team running back Ja’Maurey Champion leaving a sizable void. Fortunately, tailback Royce Swan appears well-equipped for an expanded role after gaining valuable reps as a sophomore. His production—just under 900 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns—netted second-team all-district distinction and offered a glimpse of what's to come. He should have ample room to operate behind an imposing front featuring first-team seniors Roy Swan Jr. and Colby Rao, along with fullback Dominic Teichelman. Elsewhere, Braxton Jones (Jr. WR), Michael Shawver (Sr. WR), and Karon Johnson (Sr. TE) make up a balanced assortment of targets in the passing game.
...
Manvel found its stride late in 2025, stringing together six straight victories highlighted by a 70-35 playoff rout of Hightower. Summer Creek ultimately brought the postseason push to a close in the Area Round, but an 8-4 finish showed that coach Kirk Martin and the Mavericks are trending in the right direction. The offense will revolve around new signal-caller Brayden Tuiasosopo, a senior who recently committed to Army West Point. Developing chemistry with four-star wideout Carter St. Junious will be paramount, as the junior returns after a first-team all-district showing. St. Junious’ 6-foot-3 frame and exceptional skill set have also made him a coveted prospect on the recruiting trail, holding offers from LSU, Texas A&M, Oregon, Miami, Texas, and UCLA. Meanwhile, the rushing attack will utilize the senior tandem of Kenneth Malone Hayes and Xaiden Brown, who combined for more than 900 yards and 20 touchdowns last fall. Carrying one of H-Town’s most recognizable nicknames, Karnell “Greedy” James Jr. (LSU commit) brings an unmistakable presence to the Mavs’ defense, demonstrated by 53 tackles, two interceptions, and six pass breakups that earned him a first-team all-district nod. Senior linebacker and fellow first-team selection Samuel “BAM” Weary (UTEP) was a force in the middle, collecting nearly 120 tackles (15 for loss), three sacks, three picks, and two forced fumbles. 22-6A Defensive Newcomer of the Year Brayson Robinson and Kevin Tatum Jr. create problems off the edge, collapsing pockets and containing the run.
...
The balance of power looked a little different thanks to Dawson, as head coach Mike Allison and company emerged as the district runner-up and established themselves among the area’s challengers. Though a 21-16 opening-round loss to Ridge Point ended the Eagles’ playoff run, their ascent suggested the district hierarchy may no longer be set in stone. Senior athlete Corey Brown remains Dawson’s wild card, capable of impacting the game from virtually anywhere on the field. Whether lined up at receiver, taking handoffs, or making plays in the secondary, Brown range produced 616 all-purpose yards and 13 touchdowns en route to District 22-6A Utility Player of the Year honors. Fellow senior Calvin Wesley, a second-team all-district selection, will also see time at multiple positions. He’ll operate behind an experienced front led by Carter Ceasar, Tyler Henry, Javier Torres, and Arthur Powell. Defensively, the Eagles bring back the bulk of a unit that allowed roughly 16 points per contest. First-team all-district linebackers Caden Exum and Nathanael Talom, who combined for 171 tackles, headline the group, while seniors Jumar Curry and Aiden Witt reinforce the trenches.
...
Despite the challenges that come with navigating such a demanding district slate, Dobie still managed to post a respectable 5-5 record and stay within striking distance of the playoff picture. The road back to contention won’t be easy, but it’s one the Longhorns are prepared to embrace. Tailback Adrian Taylor serves as the engine behind Dobie’s attack, primed to build on the explosiveness and vision he showcased as a sophomore while taking on an expanded workload this fall. Senior guard Achilles Rostro sets the tone up front, anchoring an offensive line tasked with creating room for Taylor while giving quarterback Jalen Miles time to find second-team all-district wideout Nolen Thomas through the air. The Longhorns will have a few more questions to answer on the other side of the ball, though Robert “RJ” Robinson (Sr. DE), Orlando Gomez (Sr. LB), Dakarai Parker (Sr. CB), and Jyles Washington (Jr. LB) are positioned to make their mark.
...
Brazoswood begins a new chapter following UIL realignment, leaving District 24-6A after a 4-6 result and fifth-place standing. Guided by head coach Eric Luster, the Bucs are chasing their first playoff berth since 2022—a goal that will be anything but straightforward. Familiarity on defense should serve Brazoswood well, led by cornerback Keiran Lunford, a first-team all-district honoree who racked up 67 tackles and three interceptions a season ago. Senior linebacker Ethan Henry paces the middle of the unit, while juniors Tyler Luna and Kristian Butler bulk up the front seven. Taking over at quarterback is Bay City transfer Jonus Edwards, a 6-foot-1 senior who fits the mold of a prototypical QB1 and brings the skill set to elevate the Buccaneers’ scheme. He’ll be joined by receivers Nick Darthard and Camryn Davis, along with junior running back Denzel Jackson.
...
The Texans finally found their footing among their rivals, snapping a two-year drought without a district victory. Sam Rayburn pieced together a 5-5 mark, including a 3-5 showing against 22-6A opponents, signaling a potential shift in momentum. The defense’s ability to navigate the district gauntlet will be key, but the Texans retain proven pieces to lead the charge. Linebacker Raymond Sabala (second-team all-district), safety Coen Holliday (second-team), and linemen Juelz Byrd-Acuna, Nathan Slater, and Julian Montelongo (honorable mentions) provide a veteran backbone for the unit. On offense, junior guard Darrell Randall (second-team all-district) strengthens the front alongside sophomore Byron Raymond, while the Youngblood duo is poised for increased involvement.
...
Coming off a 3-7 campaign that placed them seventh in the district standings, Alvin has plenty of ground to cover in its pursuit of rejoining the conversation. Still, second-year head coach Matthew Bass’s group has shown flashes of offensive upside. Senior Anthony Desanto returns as the Yellowjackets’ signal-caller, protected by all-district honorable mention guard Jacobi Small. Desanto’s arsenal includes wide receivers Kollin Breaux and James Keeland, along with H-back Dareon Cannon, another honorable mention pick. Defensively, second-team all-district cornerback Travis Gross headlines a group bolstered by junior safety Blaine Bingham and senior linebacker Will Mauerhan.
...
After serving as the interim leader, Colton Freeman officially took the reins as Pasadena Memorial’s head coach in January. The transition follows a challenging season that saw the Mavericks finish 2-8 overall and 1-7 in district play. Senior Joseph Castillo, a first-team all-district selection a year ago, figures to be a key catalyst in the program’s push forward, bringing two-way value at wide receiver and cornerback. Fellow senior Landon Johnson is poised to take the next step under center, while the safety tandem of Logan Gerber, a second-team all-district pick, and Jaden Arispe provides stability on the defensive side of the ball.
...
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE THE 2026 VYPE HOUSTON FOOTBALL MAGAZINE
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE PHOTOS FROM THE 2026 CITYWIDE PHOTOSHOOT
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE DIGITAL MAGAZINE
Landen Williams-Callis, Randle High
THE HOT 100: Williams-Callis, Mosely, Sampson top Houston's Athletes of the Year; photo gallery
The primary factor in determining the rankings was their performance during the 2025-26 school year. Additional consideration was given to multi-sport athletes, college commitments, national recruiting status and overall accomplishments at the district, regional, state and national levels.
The result is a collection of the area's most dynamic and accomplished athletes — competitors who have proven themselves on the biggest stages in 2025-26.
So here are the Top 50 Boys Athletes for the 2025-26 season.
Cardae Mack, Atascocita
...
TOP 50
No. 1 Landen Williams-Callis, Randle, Football and Track
Texas Gatorade Player of the Year; VYPE POY
…
No. 2 Alvin Mosely, Crawford, Football and Basketball
VYPE Basketball POY Finalist; First-Team Football
…
No. 3 CJ Sampson, Tomball, Baseball
2X State Champion, State MVP (Texas A&M-signee)
…
No. 4 Jermaine Bishop Jr., Willis, Football and Basketball
All-time leading WR in Houston HS Football; UT-signee
…
No. 5 Blake Hamilton, Tompkins, Football and Track
The Fastest Man in Houston? TD Club of Finalist
…
No. 6 Keisean Henderson, Legacy SSS, Football
No. 1 QB in the Country, UH-signee
…
No. 7 Reese Alston, Second Baptist School, Basketball
2X TAPPS State Champion; Guy V. Lewis Winner
…
No. 8 Grant Sperandio, Memorial, Football and Baseball
Star QB, Texas-commit on the Mound; State Finalist
…
No. 9 John Hebert, Strake Jesuit, Football
4th All-Time Yardage for RBs in Houston (UH-signee)
…
No. 10 Dillon Mitchell, CE King, Football and Track
Fastest Man in Nation, Team’s Top WR
…
No. 11 Andrew Jones, Klein Collins, Track
Won State Gold in Both Events, Back to Back
…
No. 12 Cardae Mack, Atascocita, Football
Massive Career for Eagles, Arizona State-signee
…
No. 13 Parker Glenn, Cain, Soccer
2X State Champ, District MVP
…
No. 14 Isaiah Santos, Seven Lakes, Basketball
VYPE Public School Player of Year; Regional Finals
…
No. 15 Micah Tennison, Oak Ridge, Swim
Two Golds at State, Texas A&M-signee
…
No. 16 JD Wallace, Yates, Football, Basketball and Track
All-District Football; Basketball; Track (UTEP-signee)
…
No. 17 Xavier Muhammad, South Houston, Football, Basketball and Track
Major DI Football, All-District Basketball (Michigan-commit
…
No. 18 Jaylen Addai, Shadow Creek, Football, Basketball and Track
The Future of Shadow Creek.
…
No. 19 Colton Coney, Clear Creek, Water Polo
State MVP; The State’s Top Player
…
No. 20 Sean Perez, Humble, Wrestling
Best Pound for Pound Wrestler in H-Town; State Champion
…
No. 21 TK Gaines, Waller, Football and Baseball
2x Baseball USA Gold; Unanimous Football All-District QB
…
No. 22 Carson White, Iowa Colony, Football, Baseball and Track
Junior Had Huge Year. One of Top QBs, Starting CF, Relays in Track (OSU-commit)
…
No. 23 Adam Boyd, Atascocita, Basketball
MVP of District; Led Team to State Semis (La.Tech-signee)
…
No. 24 Peter Dorsey, Wheatley, Football and Basketball
D1 Defensive End; Led Wildcats to State Semis in Hoops
…
No. 25 Kosi Okpala, Mayde Creek, Football
TD Club Defensive POY; Dominant Hitter (UT-signee)
…
No. 26 Wayne Shanks, Kinkaid, Football and Track
Led Falcons to SPC Title… again (Arizona-commit)
…
No. 27 Landon Veal, Houston Christian, Basketball
Star on SPC Champs; High Major Hooper
…
No. 28 Miguel Becerra, College Park, Soccer
School Made History Winning State Title
…
No. 29 Marcus Cantu, Lutheran South, Baseball
Helped Lead Pioneers to Another TAPPS Title (Coastal Carolina-signee)
…
No. 30 Kaleb Maryland, North Shore, Football
Won State as a Senior at QB (Utah State-signee)
…
No. 31 CJ Toney, Atascocita, Football and Baseball
1,400 Yards Offense; Centerfielder for Regional Semifinalist (Wash State-signee)
…
No. 32 Catcher Hopkins, Tomball Baseball
2X State Champ; Heartbeat of Tomball; (Texas A&M-signee)
…
No. 33 Lincoln Frazier, Willis, Football
Led State in Passing as a Freshman
…
No. 34 Damon Miles, Clear Lake, Basketball
Led State in Texas in Scoring
…
No. 35 Joshua Shelton, Pearland, Track
Won the 400 Meters at State
…
No. 36 Za’Qwaun Nunn, North Shore, Football, Track, Wrestling
District MVP on the State Champion; Regional Track
…
No. 37 Logan Milsaps, College Park, Wrestling
State Champion. One of Nation’s Best Wrestlers
…
No. 38 Miles Young, Episcopal, Baseball
SPC Champ and Perfect Game Rated 10 of 10 (Georgia-signee)
…
No. 39 Nicholas Ferguson, Heights, Track
State Camp in the 800 Meters
…
No. 40 Noah Ballard, Klein Cain, Football and Soccer
State MVP for Soccer; Won State; Kicks Field Goals too
…
No. 41 Obinna Umeh, St. Thomas, Football
VYPE Private School Player of the Year (Duke-signee)
…
No. 42 Jack Smejkal, The Woodlands, Baseball
Second Team All-State; Ace Pitcher (Texas-signee)
…
No. 43 Landon Brown, Iowa Colony, Baseball
Led Team to Historic Playoff Run; 3rd Team All-State (Miss. State-Signee)
…
No. 44 Joseph Credit, Pearland, Football
District Defensive POY; TD Club Finalist (Kansas-signee)
…
No. 45 Camden Gibson, College Park, Track
Tremendous in XC; Won 1600 at State Class 6A (Tulsa-signee)
…
No. 46 Ashten Ballew, Katy, Baseball
District Offensive POY, Led Katy to Regional Finals
…
No. 47 Alim Olajuwon, Episcopal, Basketball
All-SPC, ESPN 4-Star, SPC Finalist
…
No. 48 Griffin Saacke, Bridgeland, Cross Country and Track
Houston’s Top Long Distance Runner
…
No. 49 Peyton Trummell, Lake Creek, Baseball
Led Lions to State Finals; All-Time Leading HR Man at LC
…
No. 50 Pierce Ritchey, St. John’s, Wrestling
VYPE Private School Wrestler of the Year