Most Underrated High School in Florida? | The Villages Charter School Football Preview

Most Underrated High School in Florida? | The Villages Charter School Football Preview | Must Read

The Villages Charter School in Florida boasts some of the best football facilities in the state—facilities that rival those of small colleges. From their state-of-the-art weight room to top-tier practice fields and locker rooms, the program is equipped to develop athletes to the highest level. The coaching staff includes former NFL players, bringing invaluable professional experience and a winning mindset to the team. With a focus on player development, both on and off the field, The Villages is quickly becoming one of the most exciting and rapidly rising football programs in the country. As their reputation grows, the program continues to attract top talent, making it a powerhouse in the making. The Villages Charter School is the home NBA Star Tre Mann.

Unlike public schools, the Villages is a retirement community. With its unique charter in the workplace partnership, The Villages Charter School (VCS) students are drawn from a workplace boundary rather than the typical public school geographic boundary.

Students are eligible for enrollment based on the employment status of a parent or guardian. The school board has adopted and outlined specific business partner categories that are utilized for the prioritization of the enrollment process.

So each and everyone of these kids below has a parent who work in The Villages community! I have been able to attend several football games over the years and I feel it is one of the most overlooked schools in the area. Well, I would like to change that, so I am doing a football preview for the 2026 Graduating Class.

Let’s look at some of the best players on their rosters.

Name: Patrick Harding

Position: Quarterback

Class of 2026

Height: 6’3

Weight: 190

Twitter: @patrickbeballin

Scouting Report:

A polished pro-style quarterback with a smooth, tight spiral and excellent arm strength. Shows advanced accuracy on deep throws and intermediate routes, consistently placing the ball where only his receiver can make a play. Smart and well-coached, his football IQ is exceptional—able to quickly read defenses and make sound decisions under pressure. Trained at the prestigious Manning Passing Academy, refining his technique, mechanics, and understanding of the quarterback position. His footwork is clean, and his release is quick, though his mobility within the pocket and outside of it could be further developed. Overall, a highly intelligent, efficient quarterback with a high ceiling, poised to excel at the next level with continued growth. His brother Jon-Jon was a zero star prospect entering his final year at the Villages and received 26 offers and committed to Memphis as a tight end. Harding should have 20 plus offers and has yet to receive one! That will quickly change when colleges come through.

Name: Brett Widmann

Position: Interior Lineman

Class of 2026

Height: 6’2.5

Weight: 300

Twitter: @brettwidmann

Scouting Report:

A tough, gritty offensive lineman with a larger-than-life personality that commands attention both on and off the field. Known for his relentless motor, he plays with a chip on his shoulder and never backs down from a challenge. His physicality and work ethic stand out, dominating defenders with a fierce attitude and superior strength. Has a strong base and great leverage, excelling in both pass protection and run blocking. While his footwork and technique are still developing, his raw power and toughness make him a force to be reckoned with. His leadership and fiery presence make him the heart of the offensive line, bringing energy and intensity to his team. A high-character player with the mentality to thrive at the next level.

Name: Brady Hunt

Position: Wide Receiver/Rover

Class of 2026

Height: 6’2

Weight: 190

Twitter: @BradyHunt2026

Scouting Report:

A dynamic dual-sport athlete with a strong basketball background and promising football potential. After sitting behind standout Jonathan Harding, who will play D1 football, he’s poised to take on a bigger role this season on offense. He was a force at safety on defense playing every play and wreaking havoc on opposing offenses, causing four force fumbles. Known for his athleticism, quickness, and versatility, he brings a competitive edge to both sports. His football skills are evolving, and has a ton of potential, and it will be exciting to see him play offense this year! His basketball experience adds to his agility, vision, and ability to make big plays. With a college football pedigree from his father (who played at Cincinnati), he has a solid foundation of work ethic and knowledge. As he steps into the spotlight this year, his development could lead to a breakout season in both sports.

Name: Cole Logan

Position: RB/LB

Class of 2026

Height: 6’2

Weight: 190

Scouting Report:

Logan is a versatile “swiss army knife” who can contribute on both sides of the ball. His football IQ is his standout trait, allowing him to quickly adapt to different positions and make impactful plays. While he’ll need to add some weight and strength in the gym to compete at a higher level, his understanding of the game, ability to read situations, and knack for finding the end zone set him apart. Whether it’s making key stops on defense or creating opportunities on offense, Logan has the potential to be a difference-maker with his adaptability and smarts.

Name: Jeremiah Wimes

Position: Safety

Class of 2026

Height: 5’10

Weight: 175

Twitter: @JeremiahWimes

Scouting Report:

Wimes is a ball-hawking safety with excellent instincts and playmaking ability. Always seems to be around the ball, showing a nose for turnovers and big plays. Fearless in run support, he’s not afraid to step up and deliver a hit when needed, showcasing physicality and toughness. As the leader of the secondary, he commands the defense with vocal leadership and a high football IQ, making adjustments and setting the tone for the back end. His ability to read the game and make plays in key moments makes him a standout in both coverage and run support.

Class of 2027 Players to Keep an Eye on:

Omari Hill, WR, 6’1, 175, Led the team with 5 receiving touchdowns. Has the ability to spread the field and make plays. He is a playmaker and should definitely garner looks at the next level.

Jadence Kennedy, QB, 6’0, 165, a dual-threat quarterback who has grew up slinging the ball around. He split some reps as a Sophomore with Harding this past year and was able to help the team put points on the board. His brother Que is currently playing at UNC Pembroke in North Carolina as a wide receiver.

Jyree McNeil, CB, 6’3, 150, a bigger corner with good ball skills. Athletic player with the ability to shut down opposing teams starting wide outs.

Kyvane Caine, OL/DL, 6’3, 275, a big kid with toughness. He is able to clog the middle of the field and push on defense while stoning pass rushers on the offensive side of the ball.

Sleeper to Watch:

Jonathan Williams, ATH – Williams was a superstar in youth football in the Lake County area. He has always played quarterback and safety, and made tons of plays. He has a cannon and can launch a ball and on the defensive side of the ball he can make big plays when needed. With the ball in his hands he is elusive and has great vision. He is a Class of 2028 prospect!

NFL Draft Diamonds was created to assist the underdogs playing the sport. We call them diamonds in the rough. My name is Damond Talbot, I have worked extremely hard to help hundreds of small school players over the past several years, and will continue my mission. We have several contributors on this site, and if they contribute their name and contact will be in the piece above. You can email me at [email protected]