The first high school football games across El Paso and Texas are nearly here, with games starting Aug. 27-28.
The regular season consists of 10 games and to win a state title in each of the six classes in Texas, teams must win an additional six games in the playoffs.
El Paso has 31 teams, which play a full slate of regular season and 29 of them play in Classes 4A, 5A and 6A.
10 impact players in Class 6A
Offense
Joe Fernandez, QB, Pebble Hills
Will be a major contributor to the Spartans' offense and a three-year starter.
LJ Bailey, WR, Pebble Hills
Bailey has multiple Division 1 college offers due to his explosiveness.
Bentley DeVries, WR, Eastwood
DeVries could emerge as one of the top playmakers in El Paso by the end of the year. Can also play quarterback if needed.
Adrian Hunt, RB, Socorro
Hunt is an outstanding playmaker for the Bulldogs.
Gene Palmer, RB, Montwood
Look for a breakout year by Palmer, who has lots of varsity
experience.
Defense
Tyson McDavitt, DB, Franklin
Will be a major leader for the Cougars.
Malik Thomas, DL, Coronado
The sophomore Thomas is an up and coming player in El Paso and could be a major force by the end of the season.
Andrew Flanagan, DL, Eastwood
Adds a veteran presence to the Troopers defense.
Ethan Rivera, DB, Eastlake
Rivera will be a major force for an improved defense.
Daveon Sullivan, DB, Pebble Hills
One of the top defensive backs in El Paso.
Felix F. Chavez can be reached at fchavez@elpasotimes.com; @Fchavezeptimes on X
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: 10 impact players to watch in El Paso Class 6A football in 2026
