Central Florida High School Football: Preseason Rankings

Preseason Wrap-Up: Central Florida in the Spotlight

As the 2025–26 high school football season approaches, the On3 Preseason Florida Top 25 sheds light on the Sunshine State’s elite, with strong representation from our own backyard—Central Florida.

https://www.on3.com/high-school/news/preseason-florida-high-school-football-top-25-rankings/

Here’s how our region is represented among the state’s elite (based on On3's ranking updated as of 8-11-25)

According to the rankings:

• Cocoa earns a No. 8 placement—standing out as the top-ranked Space Coast program .

• Columbus (Orlando) checks in at No. 10 .

• Lake Mary comes in at No. 11 .

• Lakeland appears at No. 13 .

• Jones (Orlando) is listed at No. 14 .

• Edgewater rounds out the region’s presence at No. 23 .

Cocoa (No. 8)

Once again, the Tigers emerge as one of the most consistently elite programs in the area. Cocoa’s depth, coaching continuity, and aggressive identity on both sides of the ball make them a perennial postseason threat. Though often grouped with Space Coast football, Cocoa remains highly relevant to Central Florida. The Tigers are placed at No. 8 in the preseason rankings. As reigning Class 2A state champions, they begin a title defense with a road game against Merritt Island on August 22.

Columbus (Orlando) (No. 10)

Fast-rising and forging an identity built on athleticism and discipline, Columbus is shaping up as Orlando’s most dynamic challenger. High-paced execution with versatility across skill positions could make them a breakout contender.

Lake Mary (No. 11)

Lake Mary enters the season with high expectations, sitting at No. 11 in the state preseason rankings fresh off a state runner-up season last year. With a reliable aerial attack led by quarterback Noah Grubbs, who threw for over 3,000 yards and 37 touchdowns last year, the Rams are shaping up as one of the top 7A contenders in the region.

Lakeland (No. 13)

The Dreadnaughts punch above their weight through a power-based offense and hard-hitting defense. Lakeland’s physical, no-frills approach and postseason pedigree keep them squarely in the conversation.

Jones (Orlando) (No. 14)

Speed and explosiveness define Jones’ identity. Whether chasing big plays across the field or developing unheralded athletes into high-impact contributors, the Tigers present matchup nightmares for opponents.

Edgewater (No. 23)

Grind-first, trench-savvy football has long been Edgewater’s calling card. Their relentless front and ability to control pace and possession make them a dangerous dark horse capable of shaking up the bracket.

Why It Matters for Central Florida

This representation—from Cocoa’s traditional power to Columbus’ emergence, Lake Mary’s consistency, Lakeland’s toughness, Jones’ explosiveness, and Edgewater’s identity—confirms our region as Florida’s most competitive and diverse high school football landscape.

Together, these teams underline a potent message: Central Florida isn’t just a pipeline, it’s a football powerhouse defined by different schools excelling in different ways—yet all competing at the top.