Xzarion Haynes, an athlete within the class of 2026, is one of the most exhilarating high school football players to watch.
He’s a blur possessing supernatural speed that can separate himself from any defender. He has an official 4.2 forty yard dash. And, although you could make the argument that it was hand timed (which would only result in a small margin of error), he’s still faster than anyone reading this.
He weighs in at 5’9, 165 pounds, which is good size for a sophomore in high school at his position. He can line up at receiver, whether that be out wide or in the slot, play running back and has plenty of experience on special teams. In fact, he’s currently one of the top returners in Mississippi- in terms of kick return touchdowns.
One of Haynes most impressive plays was against #1 ranked Starkville, where he caught the game-winning touchdown on a twenty-seven yard wheel route. The ball thrown by quarterback Xavier Hunt was very pretty, however the pass was only able to be thrown and completed due to Haynes tremendous speed. Haynes essentially ran past the linebacker defending him, and the safety twelve yards overtop (pre-snap), resulting in the winning score for Louisville.
Not only did Haynes catch the game-winning touchdown, he was also named player of the game for his efforts. He led the box score in rushing yards, with 56 yards on eight carries, averaging 7.0 yards per carry, and receiving yards, with two receptions for 29 yards, averaging 14.5 yards per catch.
It simply cannot be emphasized enough, Haynes game changing speed is absurd. He doesn’t need that much space to get into second gear, and once he does- he’s gone. You can see it on zone runes, short passes and returns. In only a few yards, Haynes would accelerate and be at his 4.2 speed.
Haynes is an electric returner who possesses game altering speed. As a receiver, he punishes the defenses when they refuse to respect his quickness. And, as a running back, he demoralizes the opposing team by taking ankle after ankle. He has shades of De’Anthony Thomas, one of the most electric college football players of all time, and would be a fantastic addition to any DI program.
Below is a QnA between Haynes and myself:
What player do you compare yourself to and why?
“People compare me to Deebo Samuel.. I have the ability to play wide receiver and running back. And, I’m shifty.”
What’s your 40 speed?
“My 40 time was a 4.3 and my second time was a 4.2. I ran it in Jackson, Mississippi.”
What are your current football goals?
“My current goal is to make it to be D1, it’s all I dream about. My heart and desire is to play football with my brothers, and push them as well.”
What’s your favorite activity outside of football?
“My favorite activity to play outside of football is basketball and track.”
What’s something football has taught you?
“Football taught me a lot. I have people who look up to me, it was a blessing going places and people knowing me because of football- it meant a lot to me. Had a fan in Jackson [Mississippi], I gave him some football gloves right before the all-star game I participated in.”
What’s your dream school to play for in college?
“My dream college I’d love to play at is Mississippi State. With me getting player of the game against Starkville Yellow Jackets (which was nominated by one of Mississippi State’s staff members). I had a visit there and at Ole Miss.”
More information about Xzarion Haynes:
“I know you heard of my cousin Caleb Cunningham (#2 WR in the 2025 class, nationally; is a five-star recruit). He reached out to Mississippi State, and also Ole Miss once again, but I want to go on another visit elsewhere- see what it’s like. Someone told my cousin, Rion Young (Recruiting Analyst/Staff Writer for 247 Sports) that I’m a D1 caliber player, and it meant a lot to me. AGTG.”
