There are plenty of talented juniors so here's our look at the best in the area

There are plenty of senior headliners throughout the area, but the junior class is also deep with talent and skill.

Here's a look at the Top 12 juniors, on both sides of the ball, entering the 2024 gridiron season.

More: Check out some of the area's top defensive players as the football season nears

12. Gator Nichols, Maysville

The former golf standout has moved over to football where he should be a weapon for the Panthers. He has showed the ability to perform on the varsity level in basketball, and his skills and speed will be an asset for a young squad in Maysville.

11. David Evans, Zanesville

Evans will be one of the playmakers for the youthful Blue Devils. He had some success late last season and has shined during the preseason for first-year coach TJ Carper.

10. Tavin Bennett, West Muskingum

The wide receiver and defensive back will get his chance for the Tornadoes, who must replace the production of State Player of the Year Rashid SeSay. Bennett had some opportunities last year and his skill should allow him to contribute in a multitude of ways this season.

More: Area football teams are senior-laden so here's our look at the Top 20 seniors throughout the area

9. Jace Thompson, Crooksville

The 6-2, 240-pound lineman returns after missing last season with an injury. Thompson should aid the improvement of the offensive line, while also providing a force up front for a defense looking for playmakers.

8. Witten Schaad, Morgan

With several graduation losses, Schaad will be an anchor on both lines for the Raiders. They have new faces on both sides, but his play up front will be critical to help Morgan sustain its recent success.

7. Jack Lincicome, Philo

Lincicome takes over the quarterback role for the Electrics, as Talon Preston moves to running back. The lefty has some mobility and plenty of experienced options to help him settle in as the starter.

6. Hayden Bankes, Morgan

The Raiders need production, and Bankes will be one of those options after the losses of Logan Niceswanger and Kole Searl. He has the skill to contribute all over the field and should become one of the main offensive threats for Morgan.

5. Aidan Mahon, Philo

The Electrics will look to use their speed, and Mahon definitely provides that on offense. His athleticism should also aid a secondary filled with playmakers. His overall skill is why Philo is looking to improve on last season.

4. Logan Ridenbaugh, Ridgewood

Strength in the trenches is a tradition for the Generals, and Ridenbaugh is the latest player in that group. His ability to get into the backfield should enhance a defense that is stout at each level.

3. Alex Altier, John Glenn

After a breakout season, Altier looks to build on that momentum. He showed the ability to get into the backfield last season, and being able to disrupt offenses will assist the back end of the Muskie defense.

2. Brody Zemba, Rosecrans

With a new quarterback, Zemba will be the focal point of the Bishops' offense. The offensive line will have several new faces, but his speed and agility should help him as the unit gels together.

1. Harrison Ratliff, New Lexington

The Panthers are talented, and Ratliff highlights one of the team's top defensive playmakers. He led the team in tackles last season, and his ability to find the ball should help the defense hold its own.

Others to watch: Preston Ator, Ridgewood; Jace McQueen, Ridgewood; Logan Hupp, Sheridan; Creed Hill, Sheridan; Logan McClellan, Tri-Valley; Haiden Pauley, Morgan; Nick Bernath, Rosecrans; Coen Grandstaff, Rosecrans; Hayden Perdue, Rosecrans; Braxton Brownrigg, West Muskingum.

bhannahs@gannett.com; X: @brandonhannahs

This article originally appeared on Zanesville Times Recorder: There are plenty of talented juniors so here's our look at the best in the area