Cypress Ranch's Braden Baker (Houston commit)
“It’s something I’ve been waiting for,” Baker said of his upcoming senior season. “I’m really excited for my senior year and I think it’s going to be a big season.”
In 2025, Cy Ranch reached the Regional Semifinals for the first time since 2014, the year the Mustangs advanced to the State Championship game. For Baker, the upcoming campaign is about ushering Cypress Ranch back toward those heights.
“I want to lead my team to State,” he said. “From a recognition standpoint, I want to earn all-district honors or even District MVP and really solidify my legacy at Cy Ranch.”
Baker’s commitment to the local Houston Cougars this offseason added another layer of motivation heading into the 2026 campaign — the opportunity to represent his hometown on an even bigger stage.
Matt Powell (VYPE)
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“It means the world to me being able to show out in front of my city,” Baker said. “I’m definitely going to show Houston fans what they’re getting next year.”
While Baker’s motivation heading into his senior season stems from several different factors, perhaps the biggest driving force is his desire to prove consistency. He understands the spotlight that comes with his success and knows the question surrounding him: was last season a breakthrough, or the beginning of something bigger?
“I’m trying to prove that I’m supposed to be where I am right now,” he said. “I want to show people that last year wasn’t just a one-time deal and that I’m going to keep improving my senior year.”
With a championship pursuit ahead and a new chapter waiting at Houston, Baker enters 2026 determined to show that his rise was only the beginning.
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The featured standouts of the 2026–27 Shadow Creek Sharks football team.
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
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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
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Farrah Sheeren (VYPE)
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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The featured standouts of the 2026–27 Dickinson Gators football team.
Barbers Hill Eagles
Deer Park Deer
Clear Springs Chargers
Clear Falls Knights
Clear Creek Wildcats
Clear Lake Falcons
Clear Brook Wolverines
*Teams in bold are projected playoff contenders
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VYPE PRESEASON AWARDS
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER: Lorenzo Aguirre, Dickinson
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Trace Yates, Deer Park
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Raiden Cook, Barbers Hill
BREAKOUT PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Luke Babin, Barbers Hill
ON THE CUSP: Clear Falls Knights
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Doug Brown (VYPE)
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Dickinson's breakthrough felt inevitable a season ago. Armed with one of Houston’s most imposing rosters, the Gators came within inches of reaching their first UIL State Final Four since capturing a championship in 1977. A 13-1 finish in 2025 was only blemished by a Region III Final loss to North Shore, which went on to claim the UIL 6A Division I title. That narrow miss has only intensified Dickinson’s hunger as the Gators look to carve their names into program history this fall. Reigning District MVP Lorenzo Aguirre returns under center following a prolific junior season in which he amassed more than 3,400 passing yards and 43 touchdowns. The senior quarterback will have no shortage of weapons, headlined by senior receiver Ja’marion Payne and versatile junior Jayse Washington. Payne hauled in eight touchdown receptions a year ago, while Washington earned second-team all-district honors and provides a dynamic presence across the field. Senior tailback Tavin Gomez powers the ground attack in response to securing second-team recognition last season, with Michael Pugh Jr. adding another explosive option in the backfield. First-team all-district selections Chase Lewis and Braeylon Bradley anchor a formidable front for head coach John Snelson’s defense. Lewis enters his senior year with major recruiting momentum after posting 71 tackles and six sacks, earning offers from North Texas, UTSA, Tulane, UNLV, and UTEP. Four-star cornerback Royce Bimage paces a ball-hawking secondary after a breakout sophomore showing that drew interest from Ohio State, Texas A&M, LSU, Notre Dame, Miami, and USC. Safety Darian Coleman and linebacker Ethan Sampson round out the unit, fortifying the back end and interior, respectively.
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The Eagles make their Conference 6A debut this fall on the heels of a 10-4 campaign that culminated in a Region III Final appearance. Barbers Hill quickly re-established itself as a bona fide contender under first-year head coach Cody Simper, and all indications suggest The Hill is equipped to maintain that standard despite the jump in classification. Continuing the theme of change, one of the offseason’s most intriguing developments was the arrival of quarterback Luke Babin. The four-star Baylor commit joins the Eagles after a standout stint at Woodville, where he secured District 12-3A Division II Co-MVP distinction. Babin accounted for more than 3,000 passing yards and 40 touchdowns, adding nearly 600 rushing yards and seven more scores on the ground. He’ll fit right in with a proven group in Mont Belvieu. Athlete Kaegan Morton (UTSA) emerges as the focal point of the Eagles’ skill-position unit, bringing the type of game-breaking speed that propelled him to the UIL Track & Field State Meet this past spring. Anthony “Bowe” Bonnet Jr. gives Barbers Hill another reliable weapon out wide after a second-team all-district nod. Miles Spurlock (So. RB) is a name to watch, already holding Division I offers from Houston, Texas Tech, UTSA, and Texas State. Senior Cameron Davis adds experience in the backfield, while Max Summers and Breydon Nelson provide muscle up front. Defensively, the tandem of Raiden Cook and Bryce Jackson is primed to wreak havoc in the trenches. Cook, a four-star Houston commit, returns after recording 10.5 sacks in just eight games, while New Mexico State-bound senior Bryce Jackson added 15 of his own. Their disruptive presence should pay dividends for a Barbers Hill secondary led by Chris Clark, Kross Kilgo, and Cole Ackerman.
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Continuity works in Deer Park’s favor as September approaches, giving the Deer an opportunity to carry forward the progress established during a 6-5 showing a year ago. A three-way tie for second in the district standings set up a daunting first-round matchup with North Shore, making an early postseason exit easier to understand. Even so, the experience should serve as a valuable springboard for a program that appears to be on the rise. The driving force behind head coach Austin Flynn’s offense remains running back Trace Yates. Now a senior, Yates totaled more than 700 yards from scrimmage and six touchdowns last fall, earning first-team all-district recognition before he announced his commitment to Army West Point in June. Quarterback Haden LaFrenz, who holds offers from Texas State and UTSA, figures to build on an impressive sophomore campaign. He threw for more than 1,500 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2025, adding 557 rushing yards and six more scores on the ground. Those efforts resulted in District 24-6A Newcomer of the Year distinction. LaFrenz still has an abundance of weapons at his disposal, most notably second-team all-district wideout Aandon Schroeder and rising Class of 2028 prospect John Arthur-French Jr. First-team all-district pick Jack Paradysz further enhances the offense with his versatility at H-back. Flipping the field, first-team defensive end Michael Benavides commands the pass rush, with first-team middle linebacker Derek Woytek locking down the interior. Juniors Eddie Lopez (DT) and Lex Sablatura (OLB) join the mix after both landing on the second-team all-district squad.
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Coach Anthony Renfro and company are coming off another productive fall that saw Clear Springs finish 7-4 overall and secure a playoff berth. Their run ultimately ended against Summer Creek in a challenging Bi-District showdown. Powering the Chargers' response is a new wave of talent, beginning with junior running back Darrien Moore. Expected to take on a larger workload, Moore already flashed his potential with roughly 400 all-purpose yards and nine touchdowns, which earned second-team all-district honors. Fellow second-team selections Connor Walter and Mariano Aguirre bolster an imposing offensive line that also features senior Kaden Sullivan, creating lanes for Elijah Rubins (Sr. RB) to make an impact. Similar to Moore, signal-caller Jaxon Weber will look to carve out his own path as he steps into the Clear Springs QB1 role as a junior, leaning on tight end Koltyn Hutto as a dynamic pass-catching option. On defense, seniors Elisha Rambo and Kaden Corpus shore up a playmaking secondary, with fellow senior Caden Chavez offering two-way potential as a lineman capable of contributing on both sides of the ball.
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Clear Falls pieced together seven wins last year and extended its playoff streak to seven consecutive appearances, though the Knights’ momentum was ultimately cut short by eventual 6A Division II State Finalist C.E. King. Defense appears to be the strong suit for coach Zach Head’s squad, led by senior linebackers Tristan Gaviria and Briggs Worthington. Both topped 120 tackles in 2025 en route to second-team all-district accolades. In the trenches, senior James Peralta spearheads the effort to stop the run, while safety Landen Schaft patrols the Knights’ back end. Replacing production will be a priority for Clear Falls following the graduation of quarterback Kyden Barker (Tulsa) and wideout Zach Greer, two unanimous first-team all-district selections. Regardless of who takes over under center, the cupboard isn’t bare. Senior wide receivers Graysonn Sneed, a second-team pick, and Chace Rieman return as dependable targets on the perimeter.
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A sixth-place district finish and 3-7 record left Clear Creek searching for answers, but the Wildcats have a chance to rewrite the narrative moving forward. Head coach Dwayne Lane will rely on the one-two punch of J’shon Parks and Luke Rose in the backfield to keep the chains moving. Parks brings a versatile presence, contributing both on the ground and through the air, while Rose serves as a more traditional, every-down back. Defensively, edge rusher Jake Roberts sets the tone up front, carrying momentum from a second-team all-district showing into the fall.
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Clear Lake took a step back in 2025, going 1-9 overall with its lone victory coming against Clear Brook. Still, a fresh opportunity awaits the Falcons, who have every reason to believe they can recapture the swagger of 2024, when they reached the postseason. The offense shows flashes of potential, beginning with first-team all-district lineman Mark Breaux. The senior will be counted on to protect quarterback Jordan Foret, a veteran capable of directing the attack. Sophomore athlete Zaedrian Lewis adds another dimension with the ability to impact the game as a passer, runner, or receiver. On defense, Clear Lake has reason for optimism in the secondary. Junior Terrell “TJ” Stinson returns after a stint at Hitchcock, where he earned District 12-3A Division I Newcomer of the Year honors. Already holding multiple Division I offers, Stinson gives the Falcons a legitimate lockdown presence at safety.
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The road doesn’t get much easier for Clear Brook, which enters the fall looking to reverse course and climb back into the win column. Offensively, senior Samuel Alfred takes command under center, where he'll look to establish chemistry with WR1 Mack Rebouche, a second-team all-district pick a year ago. Senior Teodoro Garcia strengthens the trenches, while linebackers Rome Jordan and Nicholas Jones team with two-way sophomore athlete Moziah Hayling to reinforce the Wolverines’ defense.
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