THE BULL CITY JAMBOREE! Players to Watch! by Coach Ed Brooks.

Coach Ed Brooks Journal

Bull City Classic: The Talent That’s Taking Over Durham

Durham, NC – August 16th is circled in red on every football fan’s calendar across the state. The Bull City Classic HS Jamboree isn’t just a preview—it’s a statement. A statement that the Triangle, the 252, and beyond are loaded with stars ready to light up the fall. From blue-chip commits to gritty underdogs with something to prove, this year’s lineup is nothing short of electric.

Riverside: Defense, Discipline, and a Dash of Danger

Riverside High is bringing a physical brand of football and promising signal caller with the keys to the offense. But it’s the defense that makes noise here. Jamarion Ross returns after nearly 1,500 rushing yards last season—he’s a workhorse with breakaway speed. On defense, keep your eye on Joshua Elmenshavi (63 tackles last year) and senior linebacker Darryn Johnson, who commands the huddle like a field general. Taleeb Harrell, a junior DB, rounds out a unit that will make every snap a battle.

Wakefield: Built From the Back

With Cooper Pleasants at quarterback, Wakefield is steady at the helm. But the real strength comes from the back end of the defense. Seniors Malcolm McIntyre and Elijah Alston, both safeties, are tone-setters who hit hard and lead harder. Expect this group to fly around and frustrate opposing offenses.

New Bern: A Tradition of Toughness

This program has legacy written all over it, and Terrance McCormick is carrying the torch. The senior QB tossed for over 2,300 yards and added 6 rushing TDs—he’s a certified dual-threat. With Karvin Magwood in the backfield and Kaishawn Taylor stretching the field at receiver (10 TDs last season), New Bern is dangerous. On defense, the unit is stacked: Amari Reddick, Zion Wright, Ezekiel Best, and Anthony Herring all return as leaders of a defense that doesn’t bend or break.

Rolesville: The Powerhouse Reloads

If you’re scouting college talent, Rolesville’s roster is a recruiter’s dream. Quarterback Kaleb Williams, formerly of Holly Springs, takes over the high-octane offense. Out wide, Gavin Waddell (Louisville commit) and Anthony Roberts (P4 offers) create matchup nightmares. In the backfield, Amir Brown, a 4-star RB, brings speed and balance. And don’t blink on defense: twin terrors Zavion and Jayden Griffin-Haynes are both UNC commits, while Marquis Bryant and Jayden Broadie round out a star-studded defense. Tight end Davis Brown (FIU commit) makes this squad balanced and brutal.

South Garner: Big Men, Bigger Future

Devin Shoulars takes the reins at QB and Chase Hardy will be route running at WR for the Titians but the spotlight belongs in the trenches. Ekene Ogboko (Georgia commit) and Ebenezer Ewetade (Notre Dame commit) are elite linemen who will dominate the line of scrimmage. This is a team built on power and precision.

Hillside: Grit and Grind from the Bull City

Nobody brings energy like Hillside. Quarterback Xavier Stevenson is ready to lead a scrappy, skilled unit. Jacori Douglas is expected to carry the rock, while Jaylen Starks and Ja’don Lillie anchor a linebacker core that punishes offenses. Erick Bonner, a senior DB, gives this unit teeth in the secondary. Durham football is in good hands.

Millbrook: Quiet Storm Making Noise

Bryson Gray, a junior QB with a UNC offer, is steady and strong in the pocket. He’s surrounded by talent: Brillison McCullers rushed for 1,300+ yards last season, and Malachi Gilchrist adds a vertical threat with over 650 receiving yards. On defense, it's all stars: Rashad Streets and Quinton Cypher are elite playmakers with P4 offers, while Cairo Williams locks down the back end.

Southern Durham: Flash, Fire, and Fundamentals

Tyson Broadway is one of the most exciting players in the state—over 3,200 yards and 22 TDs last season. He has a cannon for an arm and vision beyond his years. Sophomore Kamari Holloway brings fresh legs to the backfield, and Jonathan Dillon, a 4-star wideout, is a walking highlight reel. Add in Javaughn Hargett (ECU commit) and safety Lance Henderson (P4 offers), and this team has every tool to make noise well into November.

Final Whistle from Coach Brooks:

The Bull City Classic isn’t just a jamboree. It’s a proving ground. These young men aren’t just playing for pride—they’re playing for scholarships, for community, and for legacy. Come August 16th, Durham County Stadium will be the heartbeat of high school football in North Carolina. You don’t want to just hear about it—be there and witness the future.