The 2026 New York high school football season is almost upon us, and with it, the anticipation for the state's top quarterbacks is palpable. As an expert in the field, I'm here to dissect the talent pool and offer my insights into the players who are poised to make a splash this fall. The quarterback position is often the most scrutinized, and this year's crop in New York is no exception. So, let's dive into the players who are making waves and the factors that could shape their seasons.
One name that immediately stands out is Terrell 'Pooty' Cunningham of James Monroe. Cunningham, a consensus No. 1 class of 2027 quarterback, is coming off a remarkable 2025 season where he led Monroe to an unbeaten record and a Class B state championship. His 3,033 passing yards and 39 touchdowns are a testament to his talent, and his multiple Division I offers, including Wagner, Southern Miss, Akron, and Albany, further solidify his status as a top prospect. However, what makes Cunningham truly fascinating is his dual-sport prowess as a sprinter. This unique combination of skills adds an intriguing layer to his profile, and it will be interesting to see how he navigates the demands of both football and track.
Another standout is Ethan Briggs of Holland Patent. Briggs, a three-sport athlete, enjoyed a breakout junior year as Holland Patent's signal caller. His 1,656 passing yards and 16 touchdowns, coupled with 336 rushing yards and 3 scores, showcase his dual-threat abilities. What makes Briggs particularly intriguing is his ability to balance his football commitments with his other sports. This balance is a rare skill, and it will be interesting to see how he manages his time as he enters his senior year.
The dynamic Jaiseon Barnwell of Newburgh Free Academy is also worth noting. Barnwell, a 6-1, 190-pound dual-threat quarterback, helped lead Newburgh Free Academy to the Section semifinals in 2025. His impressive offseason at camps and 7-on-7 competitions has propelled him into the conversation as one of the state's best quarterbacks. However, what makes Barnwell fascinating is his ability to adapt to different playing styles. This adaptability is a valuable skill, and it will be interesting to see how he leverages it as he enters his senior year.
In my opinion, the quarterback position in New York high school football is often misunderstood. Many people focus solely on the passing statistics, but the dual-threat aspect of the position is equally important. Players like Briggs and Barnwell showcase the importance of versatility, and it's this versatility that can often make the difference between a good quarterback and a great one.
As the 2026 season unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how these quarterbacks navigate the challenges that lie ahead. The quarterback position is often the most scrutinized, and these players will be under the microscope as they strive to lead their teams to success. However, it's important to remember that the quarterback position is just one piece of the puzzle. The success of a team relies on the collective effort of the entire roster, and it's this collective effort that will ultimately determine the outcome of the season.
In conclusion, the 2026 New York high school football season promises to be an exciting one, and the quarterbacks listed above are poised to make a significant impact. As an expert in the field, I'm excited to see how these players navigate the challenges that lie ahead and how they contribute to the success of their respective teams. The quarterback position is often the most scrutinized, but it's the collective effort of the entire roster that will ultimately determine the outcome of the season.
