High school football in Western North Carolina is a different breed. Year after year, the region churns out players who make waves far beyond their hometowns.
The Citizen Times and Times-News just dropped their Super Six rankings for the Class of 2027, and folks are already buzzing. These picks highlight the best college football prospects in the area—guys who are already catching the eyes of programs across the country.
This year’s list is a mix of schools and positions, with each player bringing something special. Let’s take a closer look at these rising stars and what sets them apart on the WNC gridiron.
Top Prospects in Western North Carolina
So, how do they come up with the Super Six? It’s not just stats. There’s a blend of staff debates, chats with coaches, actual game-watching, and a healthy dose of college interest thrown in.
These six athletes have set themselves apart, and honestly, you’ll want to keep tabs on them for the 2026 season.
Asheville School: Running Back Mukendi
Mukendi from Asheville School is leading the charge. Last season, he was a force, helping the Blues make it to their fourth straight state championship game.
- Rushed for 1,106 yards and 13 touchdowns on 123 carries
- Caught eight passes for 146 yards and a touchdown
He’s already snagged FBS offers from Miami (Ohio), Old Dominion, Eastern Michigan, and Delaware, plus an FCS offer from Gardner-Webb. Mukendi’s just getting started, and it’s going to be fun watching him level up.
Christ School: Long Snapper Kraft
Kraft, a long snapper from Christ School, is next up. His snapping skills are honestly ridiculous—he’s ranked the top long snapper in the country by the 247Sports Composite.
He’s already committed to Notre Dame, which says a lot. Kraft’s operation time is quick enough to get NFL folks talking, and that’s no exaggeration.
Christ School: Wide Receiver Smith
Smith, another Christ School standout, has made a name for himself as a wide receiver who can change a game in a flash. He’s picking up offers left and right:
- FBS offers from Army, Coastal Carolina, Kent State, and Navy
- FCS offers from Hampton, East Tennessee State, Samford, and West Georgia
Last season, Smith racked up 29 catches for 543 yards and five touchdowns, averaging a wild 18 yards per grab. He’s got a knack for big plays and just seems to find the end zone when it matters.
Roberson: Wide Receiver/Defensive Back Thompson-Wynn
Thompson-Wynn from Roberson is making noise as a true two-way threat. He was named All-WNC Offensive Player of the Year, and the numbers back it up:
- Offense: 81 catches for 1,450 yards and 20 touchdowns
- Special Teams: Three touchdowns on kickoff returns
- Defense: Five interceptions, two pass deflections, and 28 tackles
He helped Brevard get to the state championship game for the first time since 1982. East Carolina and Campbell have already come calling, and it’s easy to see why.
Murphy: Running Back Clem
Clem from Murphy is a running back who simply doesn’t quit. He was a huge part of the Bulldogs’ playoff run, especially when the lights were brightest.
- Rushed for 1,831 yards and 31 touchdowns
- 1,146 yards in five playoff games
Campbell and North Carolina A&T have offered him spots. Clem’s got that extra gear when the game’s on the line, and coaches love that.
Christ School: Linebacker Woolsey
Woolsey wraps up the Super Six for Christ School. He’s committed to Colgate and led the Greenies in tackles all season.
- 96 tackles, with 21 for a loss
- Four sacks, a forced fumble, an interception, and two pass breakups
He made all-conference in 2025, so you know he’s got the respect of folks around the league. Woolsey’s got the instincts and the motor—he could be a problem for offenses at the next level.
Conclusion
The Citizen Times and Times-News’ Super Six rankings for the Class of 2027 put a spotlight on some seriously impressive talent from Western North Carolina.
These young athletes have shown off skills that are hard to ignore. College programs are already noticing, and you can see why.
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