No. 4 Eastlake enters 2026 with new coach and playoff hunger

The El Paso Times continues its 2026 high school football countdown with No. 4 Eastlake. Practice began Aug. 3 for teams that did not have spring practice and on Aug. 10 for teams that did. The opening

weekend for games is Aug. 27-28.

Outlook for 2026 season

Eastlake has been a perennial playoff participant for more than a decade and this year should be no different.

JB Frontz takes over full-time as head coach after taking over as interim coach in 2025, partway through the season.

Eastlake has always had terrific skill players on offense and this season is no different. The key for Eastlake will be how consistent its defense can be. If the Falcons find that consistency on defense, the Falcons will be in the hunt for the District 1-6A title.

A look back at 2025

The Falcons went 5-6 overall and lost in the Class 6A football playoffs to Odessa Permian.

Eastlake had solid wins vs. Rio Rancho HS from New Mexico, Coronado, and Montwood, and was competitive in losses to Eastwood, Franklin, Liberty Hill, and Odessa Permian. The win vs. Coronado clinched a playoff spot.

Eastlake assistant offensive line coach Paulo Melendez works with players during a blocking drill at practice Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026, at Eastlake High School in Far East El Paso, Texas.

How the offense shapes up

Quarterback Julian Williams is poised for another big season after throwing 23 touchdown passes in 2025 and rushing for seven more. Running back Zeke Herrera also returns after rushing for 614 yards last season. Ethan Rivera also returns at receiver and will be a top target for Williams. Alex Aguilar will be a leader on the offensive line.

How the defense shapes up

Rivera will also be a leader on defense after intercepting three passes in 2025. Noah Morales could factor in at defensive back along with Nick Pena and Hector Alvarez. At linebacker, Carlos Gandarrilla, Zaid Rangel and Ever Villalobos could play a huge factor in the team's success.

What does Eastlake coach JB Frontz says

"The team is motivated; we have put in a lot of work to build a strong bond," Frontz said. "The team wants to battle for a district title and a playoff berth. The team has a bit of a chip on its shoulder."

Eastlake head football coach JB Frontz instructs players during practice Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026, at Eastlake High School in Far East El Paso, Texas.

What does Eastlake players Julian Williams and Zeke Herrera say

"We have really improved this year. We are more connected. We are ready to play," Williams said. "With a full year here at Eastlake, I feel more comfortable and my teammates and coaches trust me."

Added Herrera: "The way we get better is to put our head down, get better and prove people wrong. We have to be on point and not let the outside noise bother us."