Montini four-star junior quarterback Israel Abrams announced his commitment to Miami (FL) during a broadcast of The Pat McAfee Show Friday afternoon. Abrams threw for 4,072 yards and 40 touchdowns in 2025, leading Montini to the IHSA Class 4A state title.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Friday Night Drive is highlighting some of the top returning players at each position for the 2026 IHSA football season. Here are 10 of the top returning offensive linemen to watch as the season approaches.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Fenwick junior Jake Thies announced his commitment to Iowa on Saturday. An All-CCL/ESCC selection in 2025, Thies rushed for over 1,100 yards, recorded nearly 60 tackles and helped lead the Friars to an IHSA 6A state title.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

A standout wrestler, Montini junior lineman Gavin Ericson-Staton has emerged as a three-star prospect and will be a top player for the Broncos in 2026. Blake Pohlman, a MaxPreps Freshman All-American, is a player to watch on defense.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Junior linebacker Derrick Pomatto became a two-way threat for Joliet Catholic in 2025, rushing for three touchdowns after taking on the role halfway through the season. Pomatto will be a player to watch as the Hilltoppers look to bounce back from a rare losing season.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

After helping St. Laurence reach the 6A semifinals, Sean Rice holds a dozen offers from Division I programs. The junior linebacker/tight end will be a key returning player for the Vikings, who have several seniors planning to play collegiately.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

After 15 seasons as the head coach at his alma mater, Bradley-Bourbonnais' Mike Kohl has resigned. He will remain as the school's athletic director.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Grant Foes has always had ambitions to become a head football coach one day. That dream has been put on fast forward. Foes, 23, a 2021 Princeton High School graduate and former Tiger standout, has been named as the new head coach at Kokomo High School in Indiana.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

All-State running back Broden Mackert and Division I defensive line prospect Lamar Winfield are two Providence players who turned in strong junior seasons. The Celtics, who made the 5A state finals, will have 10 seniors playing collegiately.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Multiple Fenwick football players, including All-CCL/ESCC QB and CCL/ESCC White Offensive Player of the Year Jamen Williams, signed with collegiate programs during the National Signing Day period in early February.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.