FHSAA Florida High School Football Rankings: 2026 Top 25 Teams

Florida has long been regarded as one of the top high school football states in the United States, turning out exceptional players who regularly advance to the NFL and big college programs. The Sunshine State is once again brimming with elite programs, championship contenders, and nationally ranked teams as the 2026 season gets underway. The competition for state titles is expected to be among the most intense in the nation, with rising programs in Central and North Florida and South Florida dynasties.

IMG Academy (Bradenton), one of the top football programs in the country, is ranked first in the preseason. The Ascenders return with a squad full of elite players, exceptional coaching, and the depth required to contend with America’s top teams. Their championship credentials will be put to the test once more by their rigorous national schedule.

St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale) is located directly below IMG Academy. The Raiders, who combine outstanding defensive play with explosive offensive talent, continue to set the bar for excellence in Florida high school football. They are among the favorites to win another state championship in 2026 after another strong season.

Chaminade-Madonna Prep, a consistent contender that has grown to become one of Florida’s most successful programs, completes the top three. The Lions, who are well-known for their aggressive athletes and powerful defense, have the skill and expertise to take on any opponent.

American Heritage (Plantation), West Boca Raton, Lakeland, Miami Central, and Columbus (Miami) are among the other teams anticipated to compete for state titles. These institutions have maintained winning traditions and strong playoff runs while continuously producing Division I prospects. They are real title contenders because of their blend of seasoned rosters and coaching staffs.

While North Florida powerhouses like Buchholz (Gainesville) and Bartram Trail continue to climb the state rankings with disciplined, tough football, Central Florida is still strongly represented by schools like Jones (Orlando), Edgewater, Osceola (Kissimmee), and Apopka.

Florida High School Football Projected Top 25 (2026)

1. IMG Academy (Bradenton)
2. St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale)
3. Chaminade-Madonna Prep
4. American Heritage (Plantation)
5. West Boca Raton
6. Lakeland
7. Miami Central
8. Columbus (Miami)
9. Jones (Orlando)
10. Buchholz (Gainesville)
11. Edgewater (Orlando)
12. Osceola (Kissimmee)
13. Venice
14. Cardinal Gibbons
15. Mandarin (Jacksonville)
16. Bartram Trail
17. Apopka
18. Seminole (Sanford)
19. Clearwater Central Catholic
20. Cocoa
21. Jesuit (Tampa)
22. Plantation
23. Niceville
24. Lake Mary
25. Cardinal Mooney (Sarasota)

The depth of Florida football is one of its distinguishing features. Weekly games are fiercely contested because programs in almost every part of the state are capable of defeating opponents with better rankings. The state’s football culture is still characterized by speed, athleticism, and elite coaching; during the recruiting cycle, dozens of players are anticipated to sign with Power Four institutions.

These rankings will surely change as the 2026 season progresses as clubs deal with difficult schedules, rivalry games, and the rigorous FHSAA playoff system. Florida is once again poised to produce one of the most thrilling high school football seasons in the country because to its nationally known talent, fervent fan bases, and championship expectations throughout the state.