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August 2026
Table Of Contents Letter From The Editor -----------------------------------------------------------Page 2 What’s Next? UTRGV Vaqueros football set for Year 2 -----------------------Page 4 Realignment creates new playoff challenges ----------------------------------Page 6 RGVSports.com’s Preseason Top 30 Players List----------------------------Page 8 2026 Football Games To Watch-------------------------------------------------Page 10 2026 Football Rankings----------------------------------------------------------Page 14 PSJA North Raiders--------------------------------------------------------------Page 14 Weslaco High---------------------------------------------------------------------Page 15 McAllen Memorial Mustangs----------------------------------------------------Page 16 McAllen High Bulldogs-----------------------------------------------------------Page 16 McAllen Rowe Warriors----------------------------------------------------------Page 17 Edinburg Vela SaberCats---------------------------------------------------------Page 18 Donna North, La Joya Palmview Lobos----------------------------------------Page 20 Mission High Eagles--------------------------------------------------------------Page 21 Mission Veterans Memorial Patriots --------------------------------------------Page 21 Edinburg Economedes Jaguars, PSJA Memorial -----------------------------Page 22 Edinburg High Bobcats, Rio Grande City---------------------------------------Page 24 Edinburg North Cougars, La Joya High Coyotes ------------------------------Page 26 Weslaco East, La Joya Juarez-Lincoln Huskies-------------------------------Page 28 PSJA Southwest, Sharyland High Rattlers-------------------------------------Page 29 Sharyland Pioneer Diamondbacks, Roma -------------------------------------Page 30 Edcouch-Elsa Yellow Jackets, PSJA High Bears-------------------------------Page 31 Donna High, San Benito Greyhounds-------------------------------------------Page 32 Brownsville Lopez Lobos, Brownsville Pace Vikings--------------------------Page 33 Brownsville Porter Cowboys, Brownsville Veterans Memorial Chargers----Page 34 Valley View, Hidalgo, Mercedes-------------------------------------------------Page 35 Port Isabel, La Grulla-------------------------------------------------------------Page 36 La Feria----------------------------------------------------------------------------Page 37 Harlingen High Cardinals, Harlingen South Hawks----------------------------Page 38
CONTACT US Publisher and Editor Stephan Wingert (956) 683-4067 swingert@themonitor.com Deputy Editor Michael Rodriguez (956) 683-4439 mrodriguez@themonitor.com Sports Editor Ivan Palacios ivan@themonitor.com Pagination G. Zulema Baez Phillips zbaez@aimmediatx.com Regional Ad Director Benita Mendell (956) 683-4040 bmendell@themonitor.com Digital Services Chris Von Wald (956) 683-4167 cvonwald@themonitor.com
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What Never Changes Sports are changing across the nation
T
he world of amateur sports looks much different than it did even a few years ago. College athletes can now profit from their name, image and likeness. The transfer portal has changed how teams build rosters. The lines between amateur and professional sports continue to blur. We’re witnessing that change firsthand, as Division I football officially arrived in the RGV last fall. But as things change in sports, there is one thing I believe will never change: high school football in the RGV. High school football in the RGV is different. I recall watching my alma mater, Ivan Harlingen High, unPalacios der the Friday night Sports Editor lights as early as middle school. I saw families fill the stands and take pride in their hometown, a pride one can only understand through experience. I saw players become local legends after leading their teams to new heights. Those memories had nothing to do with NIL deals, the transfer portal or recruiting rankings. Those memories were about the hometown kid scoring his first career touchdown. Or the homegrown coach leading his team on a deep playoff run. They were about family members and alumni sitting in the stands, cheering on their relatives as if they were playing in the NFL. That’s what makes football different in the Rio Grande Valley. For the past six years, I’ve been fortunate enough to experience that spirit from the sideline. What started as a passion for sports has become my career, first as a staff writer and now as the sports editor of RGVSports.com. I’ve watched athletes grow from freshmen into seniors. I’ve seen coaches build programs from the ground up. I’ve traveled across the Valley and beyond and seen firsthand how much our high school
teams mean to the entire area. Every year, I’m reminded that while sports may change across the nation, the reason people care about them won’t. At RGVSports.com, that is what we want to continue to showcase. We will cover the scores, the rankings, the championships and the players who make headlines. But we also want to tell the stories behind them. The players who spend countless hours preparing when nobody is watching. The coaches who pour everything they have into their programs. The parents who make the long drives. The communities that rally behind their teams. Because football in the RGV has never been just about what happens between the lines. It is about who you represent when you strap on that helmet and don those colors on the field. Sports will continue to evolve. The way athletes build their futures will continue to change. The game itself might even look different in 10 to 20 years. But when the lights come on for those Thursday or Friday nights, there will still be a team running onto the field with an entire community behind it. There will still be a student section rocking and heckling the opposing team. There will still be a parent in the stands, holding their breath with every play and cheering until the final whistle. There will still be that athlete wearing a jersey with their hometown across their chest, playing for something bigger than themselves. The spirit of Rio Grande Valley football is bigger than any trend in sports. So as we turn the page on another football season, we invite you to join us once again. Follow your team. Follow your athletes. Cheer them on from the stands. Let us tell their stories. Because sports may change. But the spirit of RGV football never will. Ivan Palacios Sports Editor, RGVSports.com
August 2026
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August 2026
What’s Next?
UTRGV Vaqueros football set for Year 2
BY BRYAN RAMOS STAFF WRITER
EDINBURG — As the UTRGV Vaqueros moved week by week through their inaugural season, each win was followed by one question — “What’s next?” With no standard set in Year 1, last year’s team had the ability to lay the foundation and set a high bar for UTRGV football. All they did was deliver the winningest season ever by a startup FCS program playing against Division I competition at 9-3, and while making history last year was good, the UTRGV Vaqueros are chasing greatness. “Credit to this first group in 2024 on setting the standard and everything we do in our program on a daily basis,” Bush said. “That standard has been set. We talk about the fans, they have an expectation at home now. We’ve kind of put ourselves in that position, but it’s about raising that standard. Going from the offseason — just the volume of everything has been elevated and these guys just keep attacking it and knocking it out. We’ve raised the standard of our schedule. Schedule is going to be a lot tougher, the conference is tough enough, but we know to compete week in and week out in this conference, we gotta play good competition in nonconference, so that’s going to continue being the plan as we progress here as a program.” A year ago, the unknown UTRGV Vaqueros were picked to finish
10th out of 10 teams in the Southland Conference’s Preseason Football Poll. Entering Year 2, fourth. “There’s that happy medium and we talk
about it in a lot of our team meetings where we are as a program. Obviously, preseason rankings don’t really mean much, but I think the big takeaway is the perception of UTRGV foot-
ball has changed,” head coach Travis Bush said. “Whoever is voting on that, the perception has changed. Where we’re at, it’s credit to the guys who did that last year. There’s the medium —
you should look back at accomplishments and be proud, but at the same time, you gotta look forward and know where you wanna be, and you bite down on the mouthpiece and go harder. That’s the mentality of this team right now and we’ll see what happens this fall.” The Valley rallied behind the Vaqueros every step of the way during their inaugural season and the theme appears set to continue with Year 2 officially kicking off Saturday, Aug. 29 against UT Permian Basin in front of an eighthstraight sellout crowd at Vackar Stadium in Edinburg. “Thinking back, it’s hard to even think it’s been three years; it feels like it’s been a couple months,” redshirt sophomore guard Nick
Hughes said. “From the first time we went out to practice and were practicing with each other and didn’t have anybody to go against, then we bring in the first new batch of guys, we’re in the summer, then we play our first season and now we’re going on to season two — it’s completely unbelievable. From where we were to where we are now, it’s night and day. I really think it brings out the characteristics of the Valley — a lot of hard workers — the culture down there is gritty. There’s a lot of grit down there and I think it feeds into our team. We talk about it on the team, people work their butts off to come to these games, let’s go out there and put on a show for them so they have something to be excited about on Saturdays.” After going a perfect 7-0 at Vackar Stadium last season, the Vaqueros are scheduled to play five home games in 2026. Three of those home games will be against FCS Playoff qualifiers in Stephen F. Austin, Southeastern Louisiana and Lamar, the three teams who defeated the Vaqueros in their inaugural season. While it will be a challenge for UTRGV to finish unbeaten at home again in Year 2, the entire Rio Grande Valley will be ready to ride behind their Division I college football team. “The 956 is really good at that. It’s like a bond, almost like a brotherhood, and it’s like that across the See VAQUEROS | 9
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Realignment creates new playoff challenges BY EDWARD SEVERN STAFF WRITER
The last few seasons of RGV high school football have had their highs and lows when it comes to postseason success. Over the past two seasons, no Valley team has made it to a third playoff game in either UIL or TAPPS. At the very least, that is where teams want to be, playing in December like Brownsville Veterans did in 2023. It is still going to be a challenge in 2026, like every year. There are some positives to be found when looking at the realignment, but it is still hard to be optimistic, especially after the last couple of seasons. Still, a new season brings new opportunities, and several Valley teams have reason to believe they can change that narrative. 6A GETS TOUGHER The Raiders and the Los Fresnos Falcons were the best teams in the Valley last season, and both lost close and controversial games in the second round. PSJA North in 5A DI and Los Fresnos in 6A DII were the Valley’s best shots at reaching the third round in their respective classifications. Both will play in District 32-6A against each other this season, as the Raiders move back up to 6A after spending the past four seasons in 5A. The move up is a bit deflating if you are rooting for Valley teams to go deep in the playoffs, based on how 6A teams have fared in the second round. The last time a 6A team won a secondround game was in 2022,
when Harlingen High knocked out San Antonio Warren and San Benito defeated San Antonio Taft. PSJA North does play a style that gives the Raiders a chance to compete against teams from all over South Texas. The Raiders competed in the 6A DII playoffs in 2021, when they beat Eagle Pass 56-28 in the second round before losing to Austin Westlake. Before PSJA North took over as arguably the top program in the Valley, the consensus was that Edinburg Vela was the best program in the Valley. The Sabercats move back up to 6A as well. Vela also won a second-round game in 2021, defeating San Antonio Taft. Class 5A DI is where the Valley had success in 2022 and 2023, with
PSJA North playing for a regional title in 2022 and Brownsville Veterans winning it in 2023. That was with Smithson Valley also in Region III. The alignment was kind to the Valley teams then, but 5A DI, and even 5A DII, looked like the Valley’s best chance at making a deep run because of the struggles of the 6A teams. The Valley is a bit more balanced with PSJA North and Edinburg Vela in Class 6A. The question is whether that will still yield playoff success for those programs or if it will be more like the previous two seasons. COASTAL BEND CHALLENGE Coastal Bend schools continue to mix into Valley districts. Most predictions have Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi
Carroll and Corpus Christi Veterans Memorial finishing in the top three in District 15-5A DI. All three schools return key players and will be a tough challenge for Harlingen South, Weslaco East, Brownsville Hanna and Brownsville Rivera. District 16-5A DI teams will have their hands full against those Coastal Bend schools in the first round. A bright spot is that the Victoria schools moved to Region III, while Smithson Valley remained in the region and division. The Rangers will surely be the favorites to win the region. District 15-5A DII added two Coastal Bend schools in Gregory-Portland and Corpus Christi Ray. Again, predictions have the two schools making the playoffs
along with Mercedes. The Mission-area schools, Sharyland High, Sharyland Pioneer and Mission Veterans, struggled in the second round of the playoffs last year and will run into similar teams if they make it that far again. Did those teams and Mercedes close the gap between themselves and District 13-5A DII teams such as Alamo Heights and Liberty Hill? It will take a few months to find out if they did. SMALL-SCHOOL PUSH District 16-4A DI looks like it is Edcouch-Elsa’s for the taking. Zapata and Alice can be tough, but with what the Yellow Jackets return, they should be the favorites. There is optimism with them dropping a division, as teams that move down a classification
usually feel like they should have an advantage. However, the Yellow Jackets will not have it easy in the first round of the playoffs against a District 15-4A DI team. Corpus Christi Miller drops down to 4A with King and Moody, joining Calallen, TulosoMidway and Port Lavaca Calhoun. District 16-4A DII is another Valley district that will compete with Corpus Christi-area schools. Port Isabel, Grulla and La Feria will have their work cut out for them against London, Ingleside, Kingsville King, RockportFulton and Robstown. If they make it out, Cuero, Bandera and Gonzales, all coming off good seasons last year, will be waiting in the first round. District 16-3A DI has some of the Valley’s best sub-5A programs in Raymondville and Rio Hondo, ranked No. 1 and No. 2, respectively, in RGVSports.com’s rankings. Rio Hondo picked up a playoff win in 2024 and has made deep runs before, but the chances of either school making it to the third round still look bleak. Santa Rosa in District 16-3A DII has been close to a playoff win in recent seasons and is a playoff team in a district with no other Valley schools. Class 3A DII in Region IV does not have some of the traditional powers found in 3A DI or the 4A divisions, so there is some potential for a run. La Villa has dominated its district, 16-2A DII, this decade. The secondSee PLAYOFF | 9
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RGVSports.com’s Preseason Top 30 Players List 1. DT Rey Martinez, senior, PSJA North a.2025 Stats: 125 total tckls, 30 TFL, 15 sacks, 1 FF, 1 INT
2. ATH Isaiah Garza, junior, PSJA High a. 2025 Stats: 42 rec, 736 yds, 11 TD; 50 car, 481 yds, 7 TD; 42 total tckls, 2 INT, FF, 2 DEF TD
4. RB Braxton Speights, senior, McAllen Memorial a. 2025 Stats: 240 car, 2080 yds, 19 TD; 9 rec, 85 yds
5. QB Roman Reyna, junior, Mission Veterans a. 2025 Stats: 201/377, 2775 yds, 27 TD, 12 INT; 99 car, 929 yds, 16 TD
6. LB Jaime Eguia, senior, Edinburg Economedes a. 2025 Stats: 108 total tckls, 8 TFL, 4 sacks, 3 FR, 2 FF, 2 INT
7. ATH Frankie Salinas, junior, Mercedes a. 2025 Stats: 47 rec, 734 yds, 6 TD; 19 car, 149 yds; 38 total tckls, 10 PD, 3 INT, 1 FR
9. WR George Fauls, senior, Edinburg Vela a. 2025 Stats: 45 rec, 838 yds, 16 TD
10. RB Mario Lopez, senior, Rio Hondo a. 2025 Stats: 200 car, 2062 yds, 32 TD
11. DE Jacoby Herrera, junior, PSJA North a. 2025 Stats: 145 total tckls, 31 TFL, 15 sacks, 3 FF
12. QB Jeffrey Lefevre, junior, Raymondville a. 2025 Stats: 149/226, 2170 yds, 22 TD, 2 INT; 14 car, 108 yds
13. RB Noah LaFleur, junior, La Feria a. 2025 Stats: 128 car, 1058 yds, 16 TD; 2 rec, 74 yds, 1 TD
14. QB Hassan Woolery, junior, Harlingen High a. 2025 Stats: 87/150, 1348 yds, 12 TD, 8 INT; 111 car, 813 yds, 6 TD
15. DB Ryan Prepejchal, senior, Los Fresnos a. 2025 Stats: 83 total tckls, 1.5 TFL, 8 INT, 3 PD, 1 FR
16. DB Jason Almanza, senior, PSJA North a. 2025 Stats: 117 total tckls, 7 PD, 5 TFL
17. LB Marcoantonio Alvarardo, junior, PSJA North a. 2025 Stats: 111 total tckls, 12 TFL, 5 sacks, 1 INT
18. ATH Malachi Rodriguez, junior, Weslaco High a. 2025 Stats: 107 car, 635 yds, 7 TD
19. OL Ryenn Martinez, junior, PSJA North a. 2025 Stats: District 15-5A DI 2nd Team Center
20. LB Davian Renteria, senior, Harlingen High a. 2025 Stats: 103 total tckls, 20 TFL, 2 sacks, 2 INT, 1 FF
21. QB John Carreon, senior, Edinburg Economedes a. 2025 Stats: 51/75, 672 yds, 5 TD, 2 INT; 72 car, 910 yds, 15 TD
22. LB Riley Ousley, senior, McAllen High a. 2025 Stats: 86 total tckls, 6 TFL, 2 INT, 1 sack
23. FB Ruben Garcia, junior, Roma a. 2025 Stats: 216 car, 1562 yds, 18 TD
24. ATH Andrew Gonzalez, senior, La Villa a. 2025 Stats: 139 car, 1405 yds, 27 TD; 5 rec, 102 yds; 29 tckls, 1 INT
25. ATH Sebastian Gonzalez, junior, Rio Hondo a. 2025 Stats: 41 rec, 728 yds, 6 TD; 30 total tckls, 1 TFL
26. DB Isaac Rios, senior, Sharyland Pioneer a. 2025 Stats: 93 total tckls, 2 TFL, 1 sack, 1 FR
27. LB Devontae Lewis, senior, Mercedes a. 2025 Stats: 99 total tckls, 9 TFL, 1 sack, 1 FR
28. DB Seth Moya, senior, Weslaco High a. 2025 Stats: 54 total tckls, 4 INT, 2 FF, 1 TFL
29. ATH Mauricio Vega, junior, Brownsville St. Joseph
30. OL Gael Payan, senior, Brownsville Rivera a. 2025 Stats: District 15-5A DI 2nd Team Tackle
1
3. ATH Caidyn Hoover, senior, Edinburg Vela a. 2025 Stats: 50 total tckls, 10 INT, 1 FF, 1 FR; 697 all-purpose yards, 4 total TD 8. ATH Noah Buenrostro,
junior, Mercedes
a. 2025 Stats: 63 car, 377 yds, 12 TD; 6 rec, 20 yds; 118 total tckls, 14 TFL, 6 sacks, 3 FF, 3 FR
a. 2025 Stats: 114 car, 654 yds, 9 TD; 67 total tckls, 4 INT, 1 TFL, 1 sack
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VAQUEROS From Page 4
whole Valley — Edinburg and McAllen all the way to Harlingen and Brownsville,” redshirt sophomore linebacker Jaiden Haygood said. “We go play our spring game out there (in Brownsville) and they pack out the stadium. Our support is just insane and I’m so thankful for everything they do.” For Rio Grande Valley high school football products with dreams of playing Division I college football, they don’t have to look far for role models from the 956 who made it happen. UTRGV’s first quarterback in program history, Eddie Lee Marburger, played his high school football in Mission, and this year’s team includes 14 players from the RGV, with a handful expected to contribute in 2026. Redshirt junior offensive lineman Frank Medina, a San Benito alumnus, started four games at right guard last season. Redshirt sophomore run-
PLAYOFF ning back Fabian Garcia, another San Benito product, handled 27 carries for 213 yards and three touchdowns in 2025, and is expected to earn more work this season out of the UTRGV backfield. Graduate student defensive lineman Nathan Huerta, a Harlingen High graduate, also returns to lead the Vaqueros at nose tackle. The 6-foot, 270-pound interior defensive
lineman started 11 games last season, finishing with 29 total tackles, four tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks and one forced fumble. “It just shows the grit and the Valley can be Division I, whether that’s at UTRGV or at a bigger school,” Garcia said. “We have that opportunity and we have the athleticism to be dogs on the field.” bramos@ themonitor.com
From Page 6
round win has eluded the Cardinals, but again, the potential is there. Brownsville St. Joseph is good enough to win a playoff game. The Bloodhounds have shown they can hang with teams that have higher enrollments, but those Houston-area schools have been too high a hurdle to overcome. It is hard to be optimis-
tic with how the playoffs have gone the last two seasons, but maybe having Corpus Christi-area schools in districts can sharpen some of the Valley teams by the playoffs. Or perhaps one of our physical teams, like PSJA North, can pull off an upset against one of the 6A programs that have dominated Valley teams this decade. esevern@brownsvilleherald.com
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August 2026
2026 Football Games To Watch
WEEK 1: 1. Mission Veterans at Mission High The Battle of Conway reaches the quarter-century mark this season, with the Eagles and Patriots set to square off for the 25th edition of the rivalry. After the Eagles dominated the series early, the Patriots have closed the gap over the last four years, winning three of the last four matchups, including a 28-0 victory in last year’s season opener. The win cut their series deficit to 14-10 heading into this year’s matchup. Expect fireworks as usual when the two teams hit the field, with each looking to stake its claim to the Battle of Conway trophy. 2. Weslaco East at Weslaco High The Tinaco Bowl returns after a 7-year hiatus. The 2019 season, Weslaco High head coach Roy Stromans’ first season as head coach, was the last time Weslaco High and Weslaco East met. The Wildcats won that game 17-14 to even the series at 4-4. The rivalry does not go that far back. It took over a decade before their initial encounter after Weslaco East opened its doors in 2000. So, it is not as ferocious as some of these other city rivalries in the Valley. It will be good for the Mid-Valley, which needs some rivalry games after being split up because of classifications, districts and all of that. Weslaco High’s important rivalry with Donna High has disappeared as a result, but reviving the Tinaco Bowl could be a good way to pack Bobby Lackey Stadium instead of hosting a handful of fans from Laredo. WEEK 2: 3. Harlingen High at Harlingen South The Hawks snapped a three-game losing streak to the Cardinals last season, taking down their crosstown rival 17-0 in the 33rd rendition of the Bird Bowl. The victory marked just the sixth for the Hawks in the rivalry, moving the all-time record to 27-6 in favor of Harlingen High. They’ll look to add to that win total this season and make it back-to-back Bird Bowl victories for the first time since winning two straight from 2006-07. 4. Edcouch-Elsa at Mercedes: Mercedes and Edcouch-Elsa has been the fiercest rivalry in the Mid-Valley and will continue this season, but in the non-district season after the Yellow Jackets moved down to Class 4A after playing massive district games against the Tigers for decades. Mercedes is coming off 42-8 victory in 2025. The Tigers had lost the previous two encounters to the Yellow Jackets, but this decade are 4-2. Both teams return key players, so this early September matchup has potential to be close. It does seem like it will be Mercedes’ defense versus Edcouch-Elsa’s offense with those sides of the ball returning impactful players while the other side graduated really good players.
WEEK 3: 5. PSJA North at Edinburg Vela Since the turn of the decade, Edinburg Vela and PSJA North have been the pinnacle of RGV football, combining for nine 10-win seasons and seven district titles since 2020. Expectations remain high for both programs as they return to Class 6A this year, setting up a potential game of the year when the two teams clash in Week 3. The Raiders and Sabercats last met in 2023, with PSJA North handing Edinburg Vela a 38-0 loss, but just one year prior, the two teams squared off in a 28-21 thriller won by the Raiders. With both teams expected to contend in their respective districts, this early-season showdown could offer a glimpse at what awaits in the postseason. WEEK 4: 6. McAllen High at McAllen Memorial McAllen Memorial has held McHi’s number over the past two decades, owning a 16-4 advantage over the Bulldogs, including a 35-21 win in last year’s meeting. The victory marked the third straight for the Mustangs in the series, with the Bulldogs’ last win coming in 2022. Records go out the window when these two teams meet, however, with bragging rights and district title implications on the line. The Bulldogs will look to avenge last year’s loss and return to the win column, while the Mustangs aim to extend their streak to four straight after seeing their 12-game winning streak over McHi snapped in 2022. 7. PSJA North at Weslaco High The Panthers and Raiders have been two of the top programs in the RGV over the past four years, combining for 82 wins and six district championships during that span. The perennial Valley powers are set to clash for the first time since 2019, with the Panthers entering See GAMES | 11
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2026 Football Games To Watch contest on a three-game winning streak against the Raiders, including GAMES thea 24-7 victory in their last meeting. PSJA North, however, hasn’t lost a From Page 10
regular-season game to an RGV opponent since 2021. The contest serves as an early test for both squads and a potential playoff preview as the Raiders move up to Class 6A. WEEK 5: N/A WEEK 6: N/A
WEEK 7: 8. Weslaco High at Edinburg Vela Weslaco High cruised to a District 31-6A title last year. The Panthers were the favorites and they played like it with their smallest victory margin being 18 points against Edinburg High. The Panthers should welcome the competition that comes with adding a program that has maintained success like Edinburg Vela. The SaberCats have only one losing season since the program started in 2012. After a poor first season, and a mediocre second, the SaberCats have been a powerhouse in the region since then. These two last played during the COVID-shortened season of 2020 with the SaberCats winning 38-33, but the year before Weslaco won. This game also has multiple top players that could be playing college football somewhere next season. 9. Los Fresnos at PSJA North The Falcons and Raiders exchanged spots atop the RGVSports.com Top 10 poll last season, with voters split between the two squads. While new faces step into the limelight for both teams, both are expected to be among the RGV’s best in 2026, this time with a chance to settle the debate on the field. The Raiders had the Falcons’ number during their last two meetings in 2022 and 2023, winning both by double digits in non-district action. This time, the stakes are higher, with the game serving as the District 32-6A opener for both teams.
10. Sharyland High at Mission Veterans District 16-5A DII is a bit of mystery. This district is up for grabs because the top teams graduated plenty of good players. Mission Veterans, Sharyland Pioneer and Sharyland High, again should be the top three, but the Rattlers and Patriots have two of the best returning players in the district. Patriots quarterback Roman Reyna and Sharyland High’s Kevin Alaniz will be key for Mission-area schools in 2026. The Rattlers came the closest to beating the Patriots last year in district, with the score 28-16. In August it looks like this game could decide the district once again, but October is a long ways away. WEEK 8: 11. Weslaco High at Edinburg Economedes The Jaguars and Panthers met in the regular-season finale last year to decide the District 31-6A title, with Weslaco High handing Economedes its lone regular-season loss and capturing the gold ball. The teams square off again in a matchup that could once again carry district title implications, with both entering the season among the RGV’s top returning teams. The Panthers have held the advantage in recent meetings, winning seven straight against the Jaguars, including last year’s 37-13 victory. See GAMES | 12
12 | Football Preview
GAMES
August 2026
2026 Football Games To Watch
15. Port Isabel at La Feria The Tarpons and Lions have their work cut for them in District 16-4A DII as they ditch their previous four-team district that guaranteed a playoff spot. Now they are going to have to earn that spot especially with Coastal Bend schools. Both teams should have this game marked on their calendars as a must win if either wants to make the playoffs. As for the game, it should be a who wants it more as both teams like to run the ball and because of that, expect a physical game that is going to be won in the trenches.
From Page 11
WEEK 10: 16. PSJA High at PSJA North: The Tri-City Classic has been dominated by the Raiders in recent years, with PSJA North entering this year’s matchup riding a six-game winning streak over PSJA High, including a 49-3 beatdown in last year’s meeting. This year’s matchup adds another layer to the rivalry, with former PSJA North offensive coordinator Horacio Garza taking over the reins at PSJA High and bringing his son and former Raiders standout Isaiah Garza with him. While one player doesn’t change everything, it does add intrigue to one of the RGV’s biggest rivalries. The Garzas will now find themselves on the opposite sideline, looking to help PSJA High turn the tide against the Raiders.
12. Harlingen High at PSJA North The Cardinals and Raiders are two of the most recognizable names in RGV football, both setting the standard for programs across the area. Realignment has pitted the two teams against one another for at least the next two years, with PSJA North joining Harlingen High in District 32-6A. The historic programs square off in a battle that could have early implications in the district title race, as the Cardinals finished as the 32-6A runner-up a year ago while PSJA North won its fourth straight title in 15-5A DI. The meeting marks the first between the two programs since 2011, when Harlingen High won 48-7. WEEK 9: 13. Edinburg Economedes at Edinburg Vela The Jaguars and Sabercats meet on the gridiron for the first time in five years, with the city rivals now also district rivals following the latest realignment. Both enter the year with title aspirations after finishing as runners-up in their respective districts last season. Edinburg Vela holds a 6-2 series advantage over Economedes, including six straight wins since losing the first two meetings. The Sabercats have outscored the Jaguars 273-28 during that span. With Economedes emerging as a contender last season, this year’s meeting carries added weight as the two Edinburg rivals battle for an early edge in the district race. 14. Sharyland High at Sharyland Pioneer The Snakeskin Classic returns for another chapter as Sharyland High and Sharyland Pioneer renew their rivalry in a District 15-5A DII showdown. The Rattlers steamrolled their crosstown rival 42-13 during last year’s matchup, snapping a two-game skid against the Diamondbacks while improving their series record to 7-5. Sharyland Pioneer will look to bounce back and even the recent rivalry ledger, while the Rattlers aim to build on last year’s dominant showing and add another win to their series advantage.
17. Harlingen High at San Benito The Battle of the Arroyo is one of the state’s oldest rivalries, with more than 100 meetings between the Cardinals and Greyhounds, including the postseason. This year marks the 114th meeting between the bitter rivals, with Harlingen High coming off a 24-10 win over San Benito last season. Harlingen High has dominated the overall series, holding a 74-2910 advantage over San Benito. Still, the series has been more evenly matched since the arrival of Dan Gomez in 2014, with the two teams splitting the last 12 meetings 6-6. 18. Lyford at Raymondville Throw records out the window for the Cotton Bowl. Last year, Lyford was not as talented as Raymondville, but the Bulldogs came to play against the Bearkats, only losing 20-13. The Bulldogs would be blown out by Rio Hondo the next week and Raymondville would run it up on Rio Hondo a couple of weeks later. The talent could be closer this season even though Raymondville returns quarterback Jeffrey Lefevre, one of the best returning players in the Valley who throw for 2,170 yards and 22 touchdowns last season. The Bulldogs forced seven turnovers in the game last season to keep them in it. See GAMES | 13
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Football Preview | 13 20. Raymondville at Rio Hondo This game had the potential to be closer last year, but the Bearkats showed out at home. Raymondville benefited from home games against some of its closest rivals as the atmosphere at Burnett Stadium is electric at times, especially last season when they went undefeated in the regular season. Rio Hondo will host the game this season and return the skill players on offense, really good skill players. The Bobcats have one of the best quarterback, running back and receiving core combinations in the Valley. They all returned from last season. Raymondville brings back a healthy number of players on defense, a defense that shut those same players down a year ago. Expect District 16-3A DI to come down to the final two weeks and this game deciding who wins the title.
GAMES From Page 12
WEEK 11: 19.Los Fresnos at Harlingen High Last year’s meeting between the Cardinals and Falcons was an instant classic, with a 99-yard pick-six in overtime deciding the District 32-6A title. The loss left a sour taste in Harlingen High’s mouth, with the Cardinals almost certainly circling the rematch on their calendar. If both teams can run the table in district play, the regular-season finale could once again prove to be a classic, with the Falcons chasing their third straight district title and the Cardinals looking to claim their first gold ball since 2022.
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2026 FOOTBALL PRESEASON RANKINGS TEAM 1. PSJA North 2. Weslaco High 3. Harlingen High TEAM 1. Raymondville 2. Rio Hondo
Class 5A/6A Top 10: 4. Mercedes 5. McAllen Memorial 6. Mission Veterans 7. Edinburg Vela
8. Los Fresnos 9. McAllen Rowe 10. Edinburg Economedes Others receiving votes: N/A
Sub-5A Top 5: 3. Edcouch-Elsa 4. La Villa
5. La Feria Others receiving votes: Port Isabel
PSJA North Raiders Coach: Marcus Kaufmann, 11th season 2025 Record: 11-1 overall, 8-0 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 4 Offense/6 Defense Key Players: DB Jason Almanza; DL Jacoby Herrera; DL Rey Martinez; TE Jaxon Evans; LB Marcoantonio Alvarado; QB Drayden Espinoza 2026 Outlook: PSJA North has been at the top of the RGV football landscape for years, establishing itself as one of the area’s premier programs. Despite moving back to Class 6A and replacing several key contributors, expect the Raiders to remain among the Valley’s best in 2026. The offense faces the biggest question marks after losing its leading passer, rusher and receiver from last season. Junior Espinoza is a proven playmaker with two years of varsity experience and is expected to step into the starting quarterback role. Junior WR Antwon Estrada and sophomore TE Evans could also see expanded roles after gaining valuable varsity experience a year ago. A veteran offensive line anchored by Patrick Johnson and Tristan Dandridge should help ease the transition. The defense should once again be the Raiders’ strength. DLs Herrera (145 tackles, 31 TFL, 15 sacks) and Martinez (125 tackles, 30 TFL, 15
sacks) form one of the RGV’s top defensive line duos, while junior LB Alvarado (111 tackles, 12 TFL, 5
sacks, 1 INT) anchors the middle. The secondary also returns plenty of talent with senior Almanza (117
tackles, 7 passes deflected, 5 TFL) and junior Mark Quintanilla (55 tackles, 5 TFL, 3 INT) leading the way.
Despite the new faces, the Raiders look poised to remain a district title contender.
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Weslaco High Coach: Roy Stroman, 8th Year 2025 Record: 9-3 overall, 5-0 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 6 Offense/5 Defense Key Players: ATH Malchi Rodriguez; TE Ethan Hoskins; DB Seth Moya; DE Jacob Hinojosa; ATH Saul Ramirez; DB Enrique Rodriguez; QB Guadalupe Granados 2026 Outlook: The Panthers continued to be among the RGV’s top programs in 2025, making their fourth straight playoff appearance under HC Stroman while also winning their second district championship in three years. Expect no drop-off in 2026, with Weslaco High retooled and ready to make another run at a district title. A new QB is set to take over for a third straight year, with several options competing for the job. Senior Granados led the unit during 7-on-7, guiding the team to a state appearance. He should compete with junior Rodriguez, a versatile athlete who can play multiple positions. Rodriguez was a force at RB in 2025, ranking second on the team with 635 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. Whoever wins the job will have weapons, including 6-foot-2 TE Hoskins and speedy WR Ramirez. Both made big plays during 7-on-7, helping the Panthers punch their ticket to College Station. T he defense loses six starters but returns key pieces. DB Moya is coming off a breakout season (54 tackles, 4 INT, 1 TFL) that earned The Monitor’s 2025 All-Area Football Co-Newcomer of the Year honors, while DL Hinojosa anchors the trenches after posting 33 tackles, six TFL and four sacks. With a strong culture under Stroman, expect the Panthers to remain among the Valley’s best in 2026.
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McAllen Memorial Mustangs Coach: Moses Patterson, 6th year 2025 Record: 9-3 overall, 7-0 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 2 Offense/2 Defense Key Players: RB Braxton Speights; QB Aaron Ponce; ATH Vicente Valdez; LB Jonathan Garcia; DB Jason Martinez; WR Izaiah Gonzalez; ATH Toby Agu 2026 Outlook: Memorial is coming off winning its first district title in four years, and the Mustangs will have their work cut out for them in order to repeat. The Mustangs bring back just four returning starters across the board, but their offense will feature one of South Texas’ top backs in RB Speights (2,080 yards, 19 TDs rushing) and a new face behind center in transfer QB Ponce. LB Garcia and DB Martinez give the Mustangs a pair of leaders on the other side of the ball, but they’ll have to find several new faces to hold things down defensively. While Memorial won’t have much varsity game experience, the Mustangs have proved they should never be counted out of district title or playoff races.
McAllen High Bulldogs Coach: Patrick Shelby, 8th year 2025 Record: 7-4 overall, 5-2 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 5 Offense/4 Defense Key Players: DB Riley Ousley; WR Joaquin Alvarez; DB Eli Schwarz; RB Andres Garza; LB Hayden Helgeson; QB Luke Laurel; OL Matthew Guerra; DT Marco Palacios; OL Myles Barboza; TE/LB Blake Shelby 2026 Outlook: McHi will be chasing its fifth playoff appearance in eight years under HC Shelby, but if all the pieces come together, the Bulldogs could be destined for even more. Despite just four returners on defense, the four are key contributors in DBs Ousley (86 tackles, 6 TFL, 1 sack, 2 INTs) and Schwarz (40 tackles, 1 INT) as playmakers in the secondary, while LB Helgeson (62 tackles, 3 TFL, 1 INT) and DT Palacios (26 tackles, 3 TFL) bring experience to the front seven. Offensively, McHi will hand the keys of the offense over to 6-foot-4 QB Laurel, with WR Alvarez serving as his top target on the outside.
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McAllen Rowe Warriors Coach: Jamaar Taylor, 2nd year 2025 Record: 4-6 overall, 3-4 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2022 Returning Starters: 8 Offense/6 Defense Key Players: DL Julian Nava; OL Derek Pruneda; WR/TE Ronaldo Gonzalez; OL Mark Akahoshi; DL Owen Rangel; TE Mika Hinojosa; RB Mario Menchaca; DL Alex Guzman 2026 Outlook: The Warriors ducked no smoke last season, and although they didn’t qualify for the playoffs, proved they can hang with the Valley’s best. The culture began to shift under first-year HC Jamaar Taylor and the arrow continues pointing up entering Year 2. Rowe’s offense brings back eight starters, but they’ll have to find a new QB in two solid options in junior Alex Leon and senior Matthias Luengo. OL Pruneda and DL Nava provide size and athleticism on the front lines on each side of the ball, while RB Menchaca is back from injury after a strong start to his sophomore season. It’s been 25 years since the Warriors have hoisted a district championship trophy, but they have as good a case as any among the 16-5A DI teams in being early favorites.
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Edinburg Vela SaberCats Coach: Sean Landez, 1st Year 2025 Record: 8-3 overall, 6-1 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 7 Offense/3 Defense Key Players: WR George Fauls; ATH Caidyn Hoover; RB Christopher Caballero; LB Samuel Luna; WR Tony Villalobos; DL Trey Rodriguez 2026 Outlook: Edinburg Vela returns to Class 6A this season after opting up during the latest realignment. The Sabercats should remain among the RGV’s best despite the move, coming off their 12th straight playoff appearance in 2025. Vela features big-time playmakers on both sides of the ball, led by arguably the RGV’s top wide receiver in senior Fauls. The 6-foot-1, 170-pound receiver hauled in 45 catches for 838 yards and 16 touchdowns last season. Senior WR Villalobos adds another weapon after posting 24 catches for 234 yards. The biggest question is who will be throwing them the ball. ATH Hoover is a potential candidate after lining up behind center during 7-on-7 play. Regardless of where he lines up, expect Hoover to make an impact after totaling 697 all-purpose yards, 50 tackles and 10 interceptions last season. The defense returns just three starters, but LB Luna (47 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 sack), DL Rodriguez (28 tackles, 6 TFL, 5 sacks) and DL Augie Perez (24 tackles, 1 TFL) provide experience to lean on. Despite moving back to Class 6A, expect the Sabercats to remain in the mix for another playoff run.
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Football Preview | 19
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Donna North Coach: Matthew Moose, 1st year 2025 Record: 2-8 overall, 1-7 in district Last Playoff Appearance: N/A Returning Starters: 7 Offense/5 Defense Key Players: RB Caleb Garcia; LB Alfonso Lerma; DB Angel Martinez; OL Sony Gonzalez; DB Christian Espinoza; QB Orlando Carrizalez; RB Jose Perez; DL Rey Ortega 2026 Outlook: The Chiefs are under new direction as former Brownsville Lopez OC Matthew Moose aims to turn things around at Donna North. He’ll have seven returning starters to work with offensively, while the defense will look to fill holes at all three levels. Sophomore RB Garcia had a strong debut season in 2025 and is ready to shoulder a heavier load in Year 2. QB Carrizalez also brings some experience to the offense. DBs Martinez and Espinoza form the last line of defense for the Chiefs, while DL Ortega looks to cause problems up front.
La Joya Palmview Lobos Coach: Margarito Requenez, 13th year 2025 Record: 6-4 overall, 3-4 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2024 Returning Starters: 5 Offense/5 Defense Key Players: RB Aiden Ramirez; RB Adrian Rivas; LB Joshua Flores; LB Aroldo Solis; LB Cyrus Rodriguez; OL Jaden Ramirez; OL Darian Salazar; WR Julio Guerra; DB Sebastian Garcia 2026 Outlook: After Palmview missing out on the playoffs due to a points tiebreaker for the fourth seed in 16-5A DI, the Lobos are determined to earn their spot back in the postseason in 2026. The Lobos have a reputation for pounding the rock, and this year, they’ll have two experienced ball carriers set to lead the offense in RB Ramirez (789 rushing yards) and RB Rivas (980 yards, 11 TDs rushing). Defensively, the Lobos will lean on their trio of linebackers in Flores, Solis and Rodriguez. With a wide open district, Palmview has the potential to secure one of 16-5A DI’s four playoff spots up for grabs.
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Mission High Eagles Coach: Jody Cantu, 2nd year 2025 Record: 4-7 overall, 3-4 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 3 Offense/5 Defense Key Players: QB Lincoln Butler; LB Eli Torres; DB Sebastian Rodriguez; OL Yezzuel Gomez; WR Santiago Gonzalez; DB Edgar Salinas; DB Ezra Cuadros; WR Eli Alvarado 2026 Outlook: Mission got off to a 1-5 start last season before stringing together three wins in four weeks to clinch a playoff spot by way of a points tiebreaker. Now entering Year 2 under Cantu, the Eagles will be aiming to take another step forward. QB Butler received some game reps last year but is now set to take over full-time, with WRs Gonzalez and Alvarado forming a tandem at receiver. LB Torres and DBs Rodriguez, Salinas and Cuadros gained valuable experience as underclassmen last season, and now they’ll be looked to as leaders as the Eagles hunt another playoff appearance.
Mission Veterans Memorial Patriots Coach: David Gilpin, 18th year 2025 Record: 10-2, 4-0 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 3 offense/5 defense Key Players: QB Roman Reyna, LB Miguel Gomez, DL Daniel Moreno, ATH Nathan Rodriguez, WR Kaiden Espino, WR Fabian Ruiz 2026 Outlook: Mission Veterans cruised to a district title last season with junior quarterback Roman Reyna. The Patriots’ star quarterback threw for 2,775 yards and rushed for 929 yards as a sophomore, accounting for 43 total touchdowns. Reyna will have to develop a playing relationship with different skill players. The Patriots return more on the defensive side of the ball. Senior linebacker Miguel Gomez had 105 total tackles, an interception, a forced fumble and a sack in 2025. The district might be closer in 2026, but the Patriots are favorites to be the top dogs again.
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Edinburg Economedes Jaguars Coach: Raul Salas, 5th year 2025 Record: 9-2 overall, 4-1 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 6 Offense/6 Defense Key Players: QB John Carreon; LB Jaime Eguia; RB Reyes Luna; DB Mark Chavira; OL Andrew Ramirez; LB Dario Ceballos 2026 Outlook: The Jaguars are coming off the best season in program history, racking up nine wins and securing their second straight playoff berth. Economedes looks primed to build on that success with a strong returning class leading both sides of the ball. QB Carreon established himself as one of the RGV’s most electric playmakers under center, throwing for 672 yards and five touchdowns in the Jaguars’ run-heavy offense while ranking second on the team in rushing with 910 yards and 15 scores. RB Luna (77 carries, 633 yards, 9 TDs) adds another dimension to an offense that averaged 346.5 rushing yards per game in 2025, with the senior set to step into the starting role this season. Defensively, LB Eguia is among the best in the RGV after recording 108 tackles, eight TFLs, four sacks, two interceptions and two forced fumbles in just nine games. Sophomore DB Chavira adds another dynamic playmaker in the secondary and on special teams after picking off four passes, forcing four fumbles and returning a pair of scores on special teams as a freshman. With several key pieces back, the Jaguars look ready to compete for a district title again in 2026.
PSJA Memorial Coach: Omar Gonzalez, 2nd year 2025 Record: 2-8 overall, 1-4 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2024 Returning Starters: 5 Offense/5 Defense Key Players: OL Anthony Olarte; WR Vince Lopez; WR Matthew Garza; DB Adrian Quintanilla; DE Johnathan Baustro; DB Isaiah Lopez; OL Julian Torres; QB Joshua Bautista 2026 Outlook: While the PSJA Memorial Wolverines will compete in a more balanced district this season, they’ll still have to fight every step of the way to insert themselves into the playoff picture. Second-year HC Omar Gonzalez will lean on five returners offensively, including WRs Lopez and Garza. QB Bautista will target the pair early and often, in addition to taking off and running after displaying some rushing ability in spot duty last season. The Wolverines also have a couple holes to fill at linebacker, while DE Baustro and DBs Quintanilla and Lopez help hold down the defensive line and secondary, respectively.
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Edinburg High Bobcats Coach: Joe Pena, 2nd Year 2025 Record: 7-5 overall, 3-2 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 5 Offense/3 Defense Key Players: QB Aidden Sanchez; ATH Tyler Galvan; DB David De La Garza; WR Nate Pena; DE Uziel Flores; ATH Marcelino Quintanilla 2026 Outlook: The Bobcats found success during Year 1 under HC Pena, finishing the regular season 6-4 and earning their first playoff win since 2010. They will look to build on that foundation despite returning just eight starters. QB Sanchez provides stability behind center entering his third season as the Bobcats’ signal caller. The senior is coming off his best season, throwing for 1,697 yards and 15 touchdowns in 12 games. He’ll rely on new faces at wide receiver after four of the team’s top five pass catchers graduated. WR Pena is next in line after totaling 23 catches for 228 yards and one touchdown in a limited role. ATH Tyler Galvan remains one of the Bobcats’ top playmakers. He led the team with 483 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 85 carries while adding 44 tackles and six TFLs on defense. The defense faces the biggest challenge, with only three starters returning from last year’s unit, which was among the RGV’s stingiest. DB De La Garza (45 tackles, 1 INT) and DE Flores (36 tackles, 6.5 TFL, 1.5 sacks) are expected to lead the group as the Bobcats look to remain among the Valley’s top programs.
Rio Grande City Coach: Abel Gonzalez, 3rd year 2025 Record: 1-9 overall, 1-6 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2019 Returning Starters: 6 Offense/6 Defense Key Players: LB Abraham Cabello; OL Noe Salinas; WR Jojo Hernandez; DB Daniel Reyna; RB Frank Eguia; OL Edelmiro Vasquez; RB Ethan Leija; LB Isaac Rodriguez; WR Robert Rios 2026 Outlook: Rio Grande City has struggled during the last two seasons, but 12 returning starters and a new-look district has the Rattlers ready to strike in 2026. RB Eguia is poised to lead RGC’s rushing attack after rumbling for nearly 600 yards a season ago, while WRs Hernandez and Rios provide pass-catching threats on the perimeter. LBs Cabello and Rodriguez, along with DB Reyna, lead a defense determined to improve with six returning starters. If Rio Grande City can put things together in time for the start of district play, the Rattlers could find themselves in the playoff chase late.
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Edinburg High Bobcats
Go BoBcats • Go BoBcats
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Edinburg North Cougars Coach: Rigo Morales, 2nd Year 2025 Record: 1-9 overall, 0-5 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2023 Returning Starters: 6 Offense/8 Defense Key Players: QB Jorge Trevino; TE Vincent Cano; OL Anthony Guzman; DB Ryan Perez; ATH Noe Anaya; DL Matthew Velasquez 2026 Outlook: The Cougars struggled during Year 1 under HC Morales, picking up just one win during his inaugural season. Still, Edinburg North enters 2026 with several reasons for optimism, including 14 returning starters. Arguably the biggest is senior QB Trevino, who is coming off a breakout junior campaign. The second-year starter threw for 2,021 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2025, the fourth-highest total in the Valley last season. He’ll have to find a new No. 1 receiver, however, with his top target and the Valley’s leading receiver in 2025 gone to graduation. Big-bodied TE Cano will look to fill that role. The 6-foot-1, 210-pound target is hoping for a breakout season after totaling 12 receptions for 186 yards and three touchdowns last year. The defense returns nearly all of its starters, losing just three players to graduation. DB Ryan Perez and DL Matthew Velasquez anchor the unit, while DB Evan Fuentes and DL Max Gomez provide depth up front and in the secondary. With a year of experience under their belts, expect the Cougars to take a step forward in Year 2 under Morales.
La Joya High Coyotes Coach: Reuben Farias, 11th Year 2025 Record: 5-6 overall, 2-3 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 5 Offense/5 Defense Key Players: QB Owen Benoit; WR Dante Perez; WR Luis Aronja; DB Leo Maldonado; DE Max Rivas; OL Abraham Sepulveda 2026 Outlook: The Coyotes returned to the playoffs in 2025 after a two-year hiatus behind an explosive offense. They’ll have some holes to fill if they hope to make it back-to-back postseason appearances, returning just 10 starters. The biggest loss comes at running back following the graduation of Mauricio Mendoza, who rushed for more than 2,000 yards and 24 touchdowns last season. With Mendoza gone, La Joya High could lean more on the passing game behind fourth-year starting QB Benoit. The senior is coming off a season with 1,377 passing yards and 16 touchdowns and brings valuable experience after running the offense for four seasons. Benoit should benefit from the return of his top two targets in senior Perez and junior Aronja. Perez led the team with 41 catches for 599 yards and eight touchdowns, while Aronja added 23 receptions for 394 yards and five scores. The defense will look to improve after giving up plenty of points last season. DB Maldonado (36 tackles, 2 INT) and DE Rivas (36 tackles, 7 TFL) return to lead the unit. If the defense takes a step forward, the Coyotes have the firepower to make another playoff push.
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Weslaco East Coach: Carlos Cuellar, 1st year 2025 Record: 4-6 overall, 4-4 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2023 Returning Starters: 6 Offense/7 Defense Key Players: OL Joe Barrera; ATH Nathaniel Herrera; DL Jaden Garza; LB Derick Salinas; DB Devin Reyna; OL Jacob Zuniga; OL Juan Caldera; RB Devon Burinas 2026 Outlook: The East Side enters a new era as former OC Carlos Cuellar takes over HC duties, but the tradition of being strong in the trenches continues for the Wildcats. OL Barrera, OL Zuniga and OL Caldera team up to provide size and experience, while DL Garza and LB Salinas give the Wildcats some quicks and playmaking ability in the front seven. East will rely on ATH Herrera and RB Burinas to keep the chains moving, and if they can work together with a solid front line, the Wildcats could work their way back into the playoffs for the first time in three years.
La Joya Juarez-Lincoln Huskies Coach: Daniel Cortez, 3rd year 2025 Record: 0-10, 0-7 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2016 Returning Starters: 7 offense/7 defense Key Players: WR Santiago Lopez, QB Leo Elizondo, DL Jayden Luna, K Dario Martinez, S Victor Garcia 2026 Outlook: The Huskies have not had a winning season since 2017 and will have chances to get as close as they can to a .500 season with a competitive non-district schedule and an easier district on paper. The Huskies needed the move down to 5A DII and, with the returning players they have, could pick up a district win. It will not be easy for the Huskies, but district games against Laredo Cigarroa and PSJA Southwest are possible.
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PSJA Southwest Coach: J.J. Leija, 4th year 2025 Record: 2-8, 1-4 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2020 Returning Starters: 6 offense/7 defense Key Players: ATH AJ Arevalo, RB Raul Garza, QB Eddie Morales, LB Edward Montanez, LB Yordi Valencia 2026 Outlook: The Javelinas could benefit from having games closer to home after competing in the other 5A DII district the past two seasons. The Javelinas have some players to watch, like athlete AJ Arevalo. The senior can play both sides of the ball and will be key for a Javelina team that returns plenty of players. This group has the experience and is expected to compete. Do not be surprised if the Javelinas put themselves in a position to battle for a playoff spot.
Sharyland High Rattlers Coach: Craig Krell, 6th year 2025 Record: 8-4, 3-1 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 5 offense/5 defense Key Players: RB Kevin Alaniz, WR Oscar Cantu, LB Zeke Garza, DB Santi Vasquez, WR Asdrubal Flores, OL Jose ALeman 2026 Outlook: Multi-year starting quarterbacks are always hard to replace, unless you have a good returning running back and offensive line that can take the pressure off a first-year starter under center. Sharyland High has that with senior back Kevin Alaniz. The Rattlers can also take the top off the defense with senior receiver Oscar Cantu if a team loads the box. The Rattlers should have a say in the district title race.
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Sharyland Pioneer Diamondbacks Coach: Eddie Galindo, 6th year 2025 Record: 7-5, 2-2 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 4 offense/6 defense Key Players: DB Isaac Rios, QB Malaki Galindo, RB Cole Scurlock, WR Alec Chapa, DL Eric Garcia, DL Aiden Garza 2026 Outlook: The Diamondbacks will also feel like they can compete for a district title despite graduating key players. Sharyland Pioneer returns Malaki Galindo, who has played quarterback the last couple of seasons, so he knows the offense. Junior running back Cole Scurlock also had some reps as a sophomore. Defense looks like the Diamondbacks’ strength, with 6-foot-3 defensive back Isaac Rios leading the way. The Diamondbacks will be in the mix again and, at the very least, look poised to return to the playoffs.
Roma Coach: Frank Villanueva, 10th year 2025 Record: 5-6, 1-3 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 7 offense/8 defense Key Players: RB Ruben Garcia Jr., LB Leonardo De La Garza, RB Rafael Ruiz, OL Diego Menz, DL Alejandro Ramirez, OL Arian Moreno, QB Diego Alaniz 2026 Outlook: Why not Roma? The Gladiators could also feel like they have a chance at a district title after making the playoffs last season. The Gladiators return Ruben Garcia Jr., who ran for 1,562 yards and 18 touchdowns as a senior. Senior linebacker Leonardo De La Garza had 109 tackles last year, and the Gladiators have the most returning starters of any team in the district. The Gladiators are going to run the ball, and if the defense tightens up, they could break into that top three and push the Mission-area schools.
August 2026
August 2026
Edcouch-Elsa Yellow Jackets Coach: Victor Cardenas, 5th Year 2025 Record: 6-5 overall, 4-1 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 6 Offense/3 Defense Key Players: QB Jason Pena; DL Jayden Verastegui; RB Ayden Mercado; LB Jeremiah Sandoval; DB Marcus Garcia; WR Mason Villalpando 2026 Outlook: The Yellow Jackets drop to Class 4A DI in 2026, bringing a streak of seven straight postseason appearances with them. Four of those playoff berths have come under HC Cardenas, who will look to make it five this season. He brings back enough talent on both sides of the ball to make Edcouch an immediate contender in its new district. QB Pena was electric in 2025, throwing for 894 yards and 11 touchdowns while adding 313 rushing yards and three scores on the ground. He’s joined by RB Mercado (974 rushing yards, nine touchdowns), giving the Jackets a dynamic one-two punch. Defensively, DL Verastegui is coming off a breakout freshman season with 66 tackles, 16 tackles for loss and one sack, while LB Sandoval (95 tackles, five tackles for loss, three sacks) and DB Garcia (68 tackles, three tackles for loss, two interceptions) add playmaking ability at every level. The drop in classification gives the Jackets a real chance to turn returning production into a deep run in 2026.
PSJA High Bears Coach: Horacio Garza, 1st year 2025 Record: 1-9 overall, 1-4 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2024 Returning Starters: 7 Offense/8 Defense Key Players: ATH Isaiah Garza; LB Jordan Palomin; DB Matthew Azuara; WR JD Sauceda; LB D’Angel De La Rosa; DL Raul Tovar 2026 Outlook: After back-to-back district championships in 2023 and 2024, the Bears endured their worst season since 2020, finishing 1-9 and fifth in district. The disappointing campaign led to a coaching change, with alum Horacio Garza tabbed to right the ship. The former PSJA North offensive coordinator inherits a talented roster with 15 returning starters. His arrival also brings standout son Isaiah Garza, who transferred from PSJA North after totaling 1,283 all-purpose yards, 20 touchdowns, 42 tackles and two interceptions as a sophomore. Garza is expected to make an impact on both sides of the ball. Offensively, he joins a receiving corps led by 6-foot-3 standout JD Sauceda, who posted 697 receiving yards and four touchdowns in 2025. The duo could become one of the Valley’s best if they develop chemistry with senior Dylan Rodriguez or junior Gael Zambrano at quarterback. The defense is anchored by LB Palomin (120 tackles, 18.5 TFL, 2 FF, 1 INT, 1 sack). Sophomore LB De La Rosa (54 tackles, 8 TFL, 0.5 sacks), senior DB Azuara (51 tackles, 5 TFL) and junior DL Tovar (15 tackles, 1.5 TFL, 1 sack) round out a talented returning group. With a new coach and plenty of talent back, expect the Bears to bounce back in 2026.
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Donna High Coach: Thomas Jones, 2nd year 2025 Record: 3-7, 3-5 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2023 Returning Starters: 8 offense, 3 defense Key Players: ATH Joel Duran, QB Luke Guerrero, OL Angel Dominguez, OL Avel Diaz, RB/LB Nathan Robles 2026 Outlook: Donna High’s drop to 5A DII has also brought optimism, which often happens when a team moves to a lower division after battling it out in a stronger district. The Redskins had some issues moving the ball against those good teams last season but should be more than capable in 15-5A DII with 6-foot-3 senior quarterback Luke Guerrero. The Redskins also have some size on the line to protect their quarterback and establish the run.
San Benito Greyhounds Coach: Dan Gomez, 13th year 2025 Record: 2-9 overall, 2-2 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 6 Offense/6 Defense Key Players: WR Sonny Ratliff; DB Henry Quiroz; DB Peter Buenrostro; QB Albert Gonzalez; DL Ezra Lozano; DL Ramon De La Rosa 2026 Outlook: At first glance, San Benito’s 2-8 record in 2025 paints the picture of a struggling team. A closer look tells a different story, with the Greyhounds facing arguably the toughest schedule in the RGV, including non-district games against PSJA North, Austin Westlake, Laredo United and Carthage. Their 2-2 district record better reflects the team’s success, as San Benito finished third in 32-6A to secure its 12th straight playoff appearance. The Greyhounds have the talent to improve their overall record in 2026, with a lighter schedule also working in their favor. QB Gonzalez and WR Ratliff looked to be in sync during 7-on-7, connecting for multiple touchdowns. If that chemistry carries into the fall, the duo could rank among the RGV’s best. The Greyhounds’ “War Dog” defense also has the pieces to return to form with six starters back. It starts up front, where DLs De La Rosa and Lozano will look to generate pressure. DBs Buenrostro and Quiroz add experience in the secondary, giving San Benito playmakers at every level of the defense. Expect the Greyhounds to be a much tougher out in 2026.
August 2026
August 2026
Brownsville Lopez Lobos Coach: Shaun Tarantola, 4th year 2025 Record: 4-6, 1-4 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2024 Returning Starters: 5 offense/6 defense Key Players: RB Ricardo Saucedo, LB Juan Saucedo, DB/ WR Jorge Lara, ATH Gabriel Villarreal, OL Juan Armendariz, DL Ryan Guerra 2026 Outlook: Brownsville Lopez will be looking to make it back to the playoffs after missing out last season. The Lobos return junior quarterback Angel Moreno, who threw for 1,201 yards as a sophomore and tossed 11 touchdowns. Junior running back Ricardo Saucedo also made an impact last season, rushing for 631 yards in only six games. The Lobos’ defense brings back senior linebacker Juan Saucedo, who recorded 97 tackles. He should be a key leader against teams that are going to run the ball.
Brownsville Pace Vikings Coach: Daniel Pardo, 10th year 2025 Record: 4-7, 2-3 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 8 offense/5 defense Key Players: RB Damian Majano, OL Samuel Palomino, OL Cesar Martinez, TE Brandon Salazar, WR Anthony Gonzalez 2026 Outlook: The Vikings will have 13 returning starters from a playoff team. They will have a new quarterback this year, but they can rely on junior running back Damian Majano, who rushed for 921 yards as a sophomore. The Vikings will be strong in the trenches with seniors Cesar Martinez, Samuel Palomino and others returning. At the very least, the Vikings will be battling with the Valley teams for a spot in the playoffs.
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August 2026
Brownsville Porter Cowboys Coach: Carlos Uresti, 10th year 2025 Record: 3-8, 2-3 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 5 offense/1 defense Key Players: QB Edgar Lopez, ATH Abraham Hipolito, ATH Oscar Vasquez, OL Ricardo Alday 2026 Outlook: The Cowboys should be excited for the upcoming season after making the playoffs last season for the first time since 2015. Porter graduated nearly its entire defense but will have the experience of senior quarterback Edgar Lopez. The quarterback made some big plays to beat local rivals Lopez and Pace and help the Cowboys make the playoffs last season. He will have receivers Oscar Vasquez and Abraham Hipolito to get the ball to. Hipolito is one of the most underrated athletes in the area. He had five touchdowns and two interceptions last season.
Brownsville Veterans Memorial Chargers Coach: JC Ramirez, 4th year 2025 Record: 7-4 overall, 1-3 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 7 Offense/7 Defense Key Players: RB Maddox Bond; DB Erik Gallegos; DL AJ Garcia; RB Manny Escobedo; QB Jake Saenz; DB Diego Benavides 2026 Outlook: After a 6-0 start in 2025, the Chargers struggled down the stretch, finishing 1-4 to close the season, including a first-round loss to Edinburg High. Brownsville Veterans’ bi-district loss marked the program’s first since 2021. The Chargers look primed to bounce back in 2026, returning seven starters on each side of the ball as they aim to extend their playoff streak to six seasons. RB Bond and Escobedo are set to step into lead roles after combining for 801 yards and six touchdowns in limited action last year. QB Saenz returns to command the offense after his first full season as the starter. The senior finished with 227 passing yards and two touchdowns while adding 688 rushing yards and nine scores on the ground. The defense loses key pieces to graduation but brings back several proven contributors. DB Gallegos anchors the secondary after posting 51 tackles and eight pass deflections, while junior DB Benavides adds another playmaker with 34 tackles, two interceptions and one forced fumble. DL AJ Garcia leads the front after a 62-tackle season. If the Chargers regain their early-season form, they should once again be in the mix in District play.
August 2026
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Valley View Coach: Carlos Saenz, 1st Year 2025 Record: 1-9 overall, 0-4 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2023 Returning Starters: 6 Offense/3 Defense Key Players: RB Arron Lopez; OL/DL Joseph Lopez; OL/DL Andrew Vidal; WR/DB Jesus Zambrano; QB Orlando Valdez; RB/LB Carlos Salinas 2026 Outlook: A new man is at the helm for the Tigers in 2026, with HC Saenz taking over for four-year leader Hector Ayala. He’ll be tasked with helping Valley View return to
Mercedes
the postseason for the first time since 2023 and just the third time in program history. The first-year head coach will have his work cut out in Year 1, with just nine letter winners back from last season’s squad. RB Lopez will look to spearhead the offense, likely starting in the backfield for the Tigers. He’ll run behind 6-foot2 OL/DL Lopez, who anchors the trenches on both sides of the ball. A five-team district opens the door for Valley View to return to the postseason in 2026 if the Tigers can find at least one district win.
Hidalgo Coach: Miguel Gonzalez, 1st Year 2025 Record: 1-10 Overall, 1-3 in District Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 5 Offense/6 Defense Key Players: RB Daniel Rodriguez; RB Jairo Castro; OL Enrique Rodriguez; LB Marzelo Bustillos; DL Benito Cantu; DB Victor Villarreal 2026 Outlook: The Pirates have benefited from a five-team district the past two seasons, beating Valley View twice in that span to earn back-to-back postseason appearances. They’ll need to do so again if they hope to make it
three straight trips, this time under first-year HC Gonzalez. The Pirates bring back plenty of experience in 2026, returning 11 starters from last year’s squad. RBs Castro and Rodriguez are expected to form a one-two punch in the backfield, with 6-foot-2 OL Rodriguez paving the way in the trenches. Defensively, the Pirates will lean on LB Bustillo and DB Villarreal to guide the unit, both bringing a blend of size and speed. If that experience translates quickly under a new staff, the Pirates should remain in the playoff mix.
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Coach: Roger Adame, 13th year 2025 Record: 11-1, 5-0 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 5 offense/6 defense Key Players: ATH Noah Buenrostro, ATH Frankie Salinas, LB Devontae Lewis, OL Alex Garcia, DL Nathan Gonzalez 2026 Outlook: The Tigers have what it takes to compete for a district title, especially with their defense, despite graduating really good players on the offensive side of the ball. Do-it-all juniors Noah Buenrostro and Frankie Salinas are two of the best players in the Valley. It will be interesting to see how head coach Roger Adame deploys Salinas and Buenrostro in 2026. Expect big things from senior linebacker Devontae Lewis. The senior reads the game so well and will be key against the Corpus-area schools in the district.
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Port Isabel Coach: Tony Villarreal, 7th Year 2025 Record: 6-5 overall, 4-0 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 4 Offense/4 Defense Key Players: QB/DB Grayson Estes; RB/LB Michael Finona; RB/DB Bryan Ramirez; DL Jahi Vasquez; LB Angel Dominguez; RB/DB Jesus Ramos 2026 Outlook: HC Villarreal’s second stint with the Tarpons has continued Port Isabel’s run of success, as the program has reached the postseason in five of his first six seasons while earning at least a share of the district title in each of the past four years. A revamped district will make the road to a fifth straight crown more difficult, but the Tarpons remain in the mix. New faces are set to lead the offense, with senior Estes stepping into the QB1 role. The 6-foot-2 signal caller showed his potential during the summer 7-on-7 circuit, helping lead the Tarpons to the state tournament. Port Isabel will likely use a running back-by-committee approach to replace recently graduated Luis Ramos, with Finona, Ramirez and Ramos expected to share carries. Finona also projects as a key piece on a physical Tarpons defense, alongside defensive linemen Vasquez and Miles Moore, who add size up front. If the new-look offense develops quickly, Port Isabel should once again be in the hunt for a district title.
La Grulla Coach: Alejandro Bazan, 3rd Year 2025 Record: 1-9 overall, 0-3 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 5 Offense/4 Defense Key Players: QB Isaiah Salinas; RB Luis Villarreal; OL Ruben Lopez; LB Darren Bazan; OL Bryan Rodriguez; DL Bryan Carrillo 2026 Outlook: Despite back-toback one-win seasons, the Gators enter 2026 riding a 13-year playoff streak, thanks largely to a small district in past years. That could change this season with Grulla placed in an eight-team district following realignment. The Gators still return enough experience to remain competitive, starting with speedy playmakers in QB Salinas and RB Villarreal. They’ll operate behind OL Lopez and Rodriguez, who are tasked with protecting their signal caller and opening lanes up front. The defense returns just four starters, but LB Bazan and DL Carrillo give Grulla some experience to lean on. If the Gators can adjust to the deeper district, they’ll have a chance to keep their playoff streak alive in 2026.
August 2026
August 2026
La Feria Coach: Craig Foster, 3rd Year 2025 Record: 4-6 overall, 1-2 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 6 Offense/3 Defense Key Players: RB Noah Lafleur; OL Caleb Vaughan; DL Diego Leija; WR Max Saldana; DL Aidan Lopez; DB Jon Sanchez 2026 Outlook: The Lions enter Year 3 under HC Foster with high expectations after back-toback postseason appearances to begin his tenure. A larger district raises the level of competition, but La Feria looks primed to contend again. The Lions’ postseason and district title hopes start with junior RB Lafleur, who broke out in 2025 with 1,058 yards and 16 touchdowns on the ground. The second-year starter could push for even bigger numbers behind an offensive line that returns four of five starters. Defensively, La Feria must replace eight starters from last year’s squad, creating several new roles to fill. DLs Leija and Lopez will anchor the trenches, while DBs Jon Sanchez and Drake Ruiz bring experience to the secondary. If the defense develops quickly, the Lions should remain in the playoff conversation in 2026.
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Harlingen High Cardinals Coach: Manny Gomez, 20th year 2025 Record: 5-7 overall, 3-1 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 7 Offense/6 Defense Key Players: QB Hassan Woolery; LB Davian Renteria; DE Jay Garza; RB Nathaniel Gonzales; WR/TE Dayton Mireles; DB Ty Palmer 2026 Outlook: Harlingen High shook off a 1-5 start to the 2025 regular season and came alive in district play, going 3-1 against 32-6A competition, with its lone loss coming to district champion Los Fresnos 35-28 in overtime. The second-half surge propelled the Cardinals to their eighth straight playoff appearance and 18th in the last 19 years under HC Gomez. The Cardinals return 13 starters as they look to build on that momentum. QB Woolery is the focal point of the offense after a breakout sophomore season, throwing for 1,300 yards and 12 touchdowns while adding 813 rushing yards and six scores. He’ll have his top two receivers back in juniors Aidan Cervantes (38 catches, 404 yards, 1 TD) and Mireles (21 catches, 346 yards, 2 TDs). The defense is led by senior LBs Estevan Esquivel (83 tackles, 10 TFL, 1 sack) and Renteria (103 tackles, 20 TFL, 2 sacks, 2 INT), giving Harlingen a physical presence in the middle. DB Ty Palmer (46 tackles, 2 TFL, 2 INT) and DE Garza (66 tackles, six TFL, two INT) also return after breakout sophomore seasons. With Gomez at the helm and a strong core returning, Harlingen looks poised to extend its playoff streak once again.
Harlingen South Hawks Coach: Israel Gonzalez, 6th year 2025 Record: 6-5 overall, 5-3 in district Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Returning Starters: 5 Offense/5 Defense Key Players: RB Kaden Edwards; OL Granger Zuniga; WR Christian Treviño; DL Anthony Lerma; LB Jackson Fernandez; ATH Camilo Montoya; OL Ian Echavarria, DL Joe Carter Nunez 2026 Outlook: Harlingen South has strung together five consecutive playoff appearances under HC Israel Gonzalez, and this year’s Hawks squad is determined to extend that streak to six. RB Edwards (921 yards, 14 TDs rushing) broke out in a major way as a junior last season and returns to carry the load once again behind a stout offensive line. OL Zuniga and OL Echavarria will help pave the way, while a new quarterback takes over behind center. Defensively, DL Lerma, LB Fernandez and ATH Camilo Montoya give South experience on every level as they look for a bigger and better 2026.
August 2026
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