Dandy Dozen: Brevard's 12 high school football players to watch in '26

As the 2026 high school football regular season commences on August 21st, Brevard County in Florida boasts an impressive lineup of 12 standout players set to play their last high school season. This article highlights those you should keep an eye on this fall.

For Eau Gallie, junior quarterback Joseph Allen is ready to return after a season-ending injury last year. He aims to help the Commodores contend for a state championship.

At Melbourne Central Catholic, senior wide receiver Grady Bonenberger leads the Hustlers in receiving yards from the previous season, helping the team reach the regional semifinals. He is working to catch the attention of more colleges and drive Melbourne Central Catholic deeper into the playoffs.

Astronaut offensive lineman Adarian Dotson, a first-year player, anchors the War Eagles' line. Having only played football briefly before high school, he commits to helping the team reach the state playoffs for the first time since 2020.

Two-way standout Noah Flores, a Harvard commit, plays both defensive back and running back for Melbourne Central Catholic. He's prepared to contribute wherever needed and hopes to lead the team to the state semifinals for the first time since 2016.

Junior defensive back and linebacker Elijah Floyd, from Merritt Island, transfers from Rockledge with the hope of having a big senior season. His versatility at both positions could help the team attract more college interest.

Eau Gallie offensive lineman Jayden Jordan, a Jacksonville State commit, returns after missing time due to injuries last season. He aims to step up as the leader of the high-powered offense.

At Eau Gallie, senior defensive back Amari Oquendo, a UConn commit, seeks to achieve his final goal of a state title after falling short last season with Miami Northwestern.

Melissa Island's TE DeShaun Thomas, a Pitt commit, loves blocking and catching passes. He leads the team's offensive hopes for a state title.

UConn commit Kevin Verpaele transfers from Rockledge to Merritt Island. Embracing the pressure of high expectations, he aims to continue the Mustangs' tradition of deep playoff runs.

Viera's OL Coby Wallace, an Army commit, follows in his family's legacy while looking to lead the Viera team beyond the regional semifinals. He aims to secure a 20th consecutive regional title for the Tigers.

Finally, Cocoa's WR Tank White, a Syracuse commit, is proud to be part of the Cocoa to Division I pipeline. With an inexperienced team, he embraces a leadership role in pursuit of a 20th straight regional title.