The offensive line also lost two of its biggest stars in Hudson Reed and Reed Oatridge, but joining the returning starters Sammy Camargo at center and Isaac Harris at left guard are a trio of transfers in Sawyer Pearson, Eli Berry and Deonta Pickett. Expect this unit to dictate the tempo with their experience against elite competition.

Transfers also significantly boosted the defense with the additions of MJ Evans, Jonathan Roberto and Tyler Wilson.

Evans is an Auburn commit coming in from Minor, and his toughness and 6-foot-4, 270-pound frame set him up to be a devastating playmaker on the defensive line. Combine that with a Spain Park staff that has a pedigree of developing elite linemen, including Auburn’s Jared Smith, and that should work wonders.

The same extends to linebacker, where taking the place of Kerley and JD Bonamy is one of the area’s top playmakers in Jonathan Roberto. The former All-County man was the anchor of Helena’s defense for multiple seasons, and now as a senior, he’ll reach his final form while facing the best competition the state has to offer. Expect Israel Anders to factor in alongside him as well.

Wilson comes in from Hewitt-Trussville to boost a secondary that has the most internal experience of any on the Jags defense, as Tristan Hill and Jaylen Mosley are proven returning playmakers alongside Dwight Beckford.

Even with promising young players and fresh transfers, stacking up against Class 6A, Region 3 is still a massive challenge. However, Vakakes preaches the virtues of facing challenges head on and growing through hard work, and those are traits that will carry the Jags far once again.

2026 Prediction: 7-3. Even in the midst of great challenges, I view Spain Park as one of the top teams in Class 6A this year. The Jags are laced with talent at each position, and while many of the players are new to the program, this coaching staff knows how to bring disparate parts together into a cohesive team better than most.

I truly don’t think the passing game will miss a beat with Nash and Price coming into their own. I also believe CJ’s skills and Hibbard’s development will help the run game be more of a factor than it was last year.

Defensively, it’s another loaded bunch filled with playmakers at each level. Spain Park will especially create pressure up front and cause chaos, which could help blow out plays and end drives early.

The Jags still have a ways to go to break into the upper echelon on Region 3, which would truly make them a state title contender. In a 24-team playoff though, I consider them a lock to advance and a favorite to host in the first round.

It won’t be easy as Thompson, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and Prattville will all challenge them, and multiple Class 6A, Region 4 opponents will add to the tests. Spain Park doesn’t like things easy though, and it’ll be fun watching them realize the potential they displayed the last time they were in Class 7A and challenge the state’s elite.