With the 2028 class heading into its sophomore season, the recruiting process is already in full swing for last year’s freshmen. Most people don’t yet know these future superstars, so over the coming weeks, we’ll introduce the state to 100 names to know.
Quarterbacks
Prince Amari Aminu, Woodward Academy 6-1, 170
While not a massive QB, Aminu is a special prospect. He blends sound fundamentals with arm strength that’s extremely impressive for his size and age. When watching him play, the ball pops off his hand differently. Expect his offer list to grow exponentially as the summer recruiting window opens and takes over the starting role.
Chandler Dyson, Warner Robins 6-4, 215
The class’s big, strong-armed quarterback is Chandler Dyson. Standing at 6-foot-4, 215 pounds, he uses his size to generate explosive plays and drive the ball downfield. While not yet a polished passer, he’s reminiscent of former Houston County QB AJ Hill. With continued development, Dyson could become a Power-Four recruit.
Trace Hawkins, Calhoun 6-1, 175
Calhoun’s golden child, Hawkins is coming off a magical freshman season that saw him lead the Yellow Jackets to a state championship. He should continue to grow into his frame and develop into an even more productive quarterback as his high school career progresses.
Chris Miller, Kennesaw Mountain 6-3, 200
At this early stage in the recruiting process, Chris Miller is the most physically developed QB in the state. At 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds, he already has ideal height and has begun to fill out his frame. In addition to great size for the position, Miller shows good athleticism and a strong understanding of quarterback fundamentals.
CJ Payne, Cherokee Bluff 6-4, 175
The younger brother of USC offensive lineman Alex Payne, CJ Payne is carving his own path. In his first year at Cherokee Bluff, he’ll compete for the starting job. He’s had a major growth spurt, gaining nearly four inches since last year, and while he’ll need to add weight, his upside is unquestionable.
Christion Peacock, Walton 6-0, 175
Peacock is an elite athlete who also plays quarterback. Entering his first season at Walton after transferring from North Cobb, he was too talented to stay off the field last year, playing backup QB, running back, and wide receiver. This year, he’ll compete for the starting job, but he’s a virtual lock to start in 2026.
Boston Pierce, Kell 6-2, 175
A recent transfer from Rancho Cucamonga High School in California, Pierce is a high-upside QB who flashed greatness in limited time last season, throwing for over 370 yards and four touchdowns in a backup role. He shows impressive touch for his age. If he fills out his frame and gains consistency as a starter, he’ll be an FBS-level prospect.
Cannon Robinson, Westlake 6-1, 165
Arguably the most talented quarterback Westlake has had in some time, Robinson flashes elite traits. While still raw, the ball explodes off his hand like a future FBS quarterback. Though not a starter last season, he is expected to lead the team this year. If he continues to grow as a passer, he could help return Westlake to prominence.
AJ Sneed, South Gwinnett 6-0, 160
Sneed is an elite athlete, and while he may not start at quarterback this season, he could be too talented to keep off the field. He brings elite speed, agility, and size, traits rare for a QB. Even if he doesn’t develop as a passer, he’ll be a Division I recruit. If he does develop at the position, he’ll be a name everyone knows.
Bode Spence, East Paulding 6-3, 185
One of, if not the first, QBs in the class to receive an offer, Spence’s potential is second to none. He has the prototypical frame for a college quarterback and shows the arm talent to match. He split time as a starter last season but is expected to take over the starting spot this coming year.
Running Backs
Zachary Belyeu, North Cobb 5-11, 210
The most productive freshman running back in the state last season, Belyeu rushed for over 1,100 yards. He combines a powerful frame with breakaway speed, averaging an impressive 8.7 yards per carry. With elite QB Teddy Jarrard taking pressure off the run game, expect even more production from Belyeu in 2025.
Stephen Brown, North Gwinnett 6-0, 190
It’s rare to find a young back with the blend of traits Brown brings to the table. His quickness and agility might be his best qualities—he hits top speed in just a few steps and bursts through holes with urgency, forcing defenders into bad angles. Combine that with vision and elusiveness, and you have a back who can be the focal point of an elite offense.
Kevin Hartsfield, Newton 6-0, 200
One of the top recruits in the state, Hartsfield has already made noise on both the field and the recruiting trail. With nearly every offer you could ask for, he’s also proven it on the field, rushing for over 700 yards and eight touchdowns while splitting carries last year. Expect him to eclipse the 1,000-yard mark this season.
Jacez Walton, Central-Carroll 5-11, 200
The next in a line of great Central running backs, Walton is already physically developed and possesses the traits of a future Power Four starter. He’s a powerful, fast runner with good vision, though he’ll need to improve his decision-making when running between the tackles. He already shows great ability in pass protection and has lined up at fullback and H-tight end. A skill college coaches put a high value on.
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