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Pittman’s Pocket: HBCUs Should Keep an Eye on These 2026 High School Football Prospects

Pittman's Pocket: HBCUs Should Keep an Eye on These 2026 High School Football Prospects
Pittman’s Pocket: HBCUs Should Keep an Eye on These 2026 High School Football Prospects

As Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) continue to elevate their presence in the college football recruiting landscape, the 2026 class is already shaping up with talent that shouldn’t be overlooked. Here are four standout high school prospects from Florida who deserve serious attention from HBCU programs across the country.

Luke Lewis – DL | Booker T. Washington (Pensacola, FL)

  • Height: 6’1″ | Weight: 265 lbs
  • Positions: Defensive End, Defensive Tackle
  • Twitter: @LukeLewis34

Luke Lewis brings a strong and disruptive presence on the defensive line. With his size and motor, he can clog lanes as a tackle or rush the passer off the edge. His versatility and physicality make him an ideal fit for programs looking to bolster their front seven with a high-upside prospect.

RJ Coleman – CB | Milton High School (Milton, FL)

  • Height: 6’1″ | Weight: 170 lbs
  • Position: Cornerback
  • Twitter: @Rj_coleman1

RJ Coleman is a long, athletic corner with fluid hips and great instincts in coverage. His frame allows him to match up well against bigger receivers, and his ball skills give him game-changing potential in the secondary. Coleman is one to watch as he develops into a true lockdown defender.

Malique Harrell – DB | Lakewood High School (St. Petersburg, FL)

  • Height: 6’1″ | Weight: 160 lbs
  • Positions: Cornerback, Free Safety
  • Twitter: @MHarrell21

Whether lined up at corner or deep as a free safety, Malique Harrell shows range, speed, and a nose for the football. His instincts and coverage awareness make him a threat in the passing game, while his frame gives him the ability to grow into a physical playmaker at the next level.

Derayl Gathers – WR | Baldwin High School (Baldwin, FL)

Derayl Gathers is a rising wide receiver with excellent size and a smooth stride. He tracks the ball well and can make tough catches in traffic. With continued development, Gathers could emerge as a top target and red zone weapon for any college offense.

These four athletes represent the depth and potential of Florida’s 2026 class. As HBCU programs continue to push for competitive recruiting classes, prospects like Lewis, Coleman, Harrell, and Gathers should be firmly on their radar.

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