The 2026 recruiting cycle is two years away, but it's never too early to start looking ahead at potential prospects. The prospect we will look at today is North Oconee's Khamari Brooks. He's a 6'4" and 220-pound outside linebacker and tight end for the Titans. As a freshman last season, he was inserted into the lineup in game 6 and "took control of that position," stated North Oconee Head Coach Tyler Aurandt. In 7 games last season, Brooks posted 55 total tackles, 6 TFLs, 2 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles. He also played basketball for the Titans and averaged 10.7 ppg and 5.9 rebounds as a freshman. 

I went to watch Khamari for North Oconee's season opener against Oconee County. His snaps were limited as he's still fully recovering from an injury suffered during basketball season. He looked really good in the snaps he did play, coming off the edge and dropping back into coverage. He will hopefully be a full go with no limitations by game 3 against Madison County. After the game, I caught up with Khamari, and he said he hasn't had any contact with colleges so far. The important things when it comes to his recruitment will be coaching and having a good connection with the team around him. Being close to home isn't a big factor when it comes to his recruitment. Having a good feel for the school he chooses is the biggest thing for Khamari in his decision process. 

I also had the opportunity to speak with Coach Aurandt on Brooks. He told me the sky is the limit for Khamari, and he's super surprised that no schools have jumped on him so far. He knew that Khamari would be a special player from very early on. When he watched Khamari play football and basketball in 8th grade, Coach Aurandt said, "You knew that you were going to have a chance to coach a generational type talent." Khamari plays both ways for North Oconee, but during his recovery, he will, "Play defense first because that's where he will help the team the most," Coach said, but once healthy, he could play both ways. Coach Aurandt also said how much of an unbelievable teammate Khamari is. "He's well beyond his years when it comes to leadership, and he's not afraid to say anything to anybody." That's very high praise being placed on someone that's only in their second year with the team. 

Khamari's potential has the chance to soar with his athletic ability and with the help of North Oconee Assistant Coach David Pollack. Khamari has plenty of time to make his college decision, so he has a ton of time to improve and develop. The 2026 cycle is 2 years away, but Khamari Brooks is a name you should know.