NFL veteran trainer Austin Johnson (right) worked with Big 12 Conference target Cooper McGowan (left), among many others, at the Blue-Grey All-American Combine (Rocky Mountain Regional).
With NFL veteran Ken Stills as lead instructor, and assistance from former pros such as Ashley Ambriose, Kevin McKenzie, Dimitri Stanley, Nick Williams and Austin Johnson, the Blue-Grey All-American Combine (Rocky Mountain Regional) was destined for success.
There were many scholarship-worthy prospects in attendance and numerous others fit in that category. Below is a recap of some of the top performers and each is now considered as an All-American Bowl candidate for one of the upcoming games later on this year (details to follow).
Kellen Behrendsen, 2026, QB, Dakota Ridge (CO): The 6’0 and 175-pounder has been in contact with schools from the Ivy League.
Gerik Ashford, 2026, RB, Chaparral (CO): North Dakota State seems to be firmly on the radar of the 5’10 and 190-pounder.
Tay Tay Jenkins, 2027, RB, Westside (NE): Quick and fast, also elusive, the 5’8 and 170-pounder opened up plenty of eyes.
James Pillivant, 2026, WR, Central (WY): On the official roster, the 6’2 and 180-pounder has interest in North Dakota State.
Karson McKenzie, 2027, WR, Cherry Creek (CO): A Big Sky Conference target, the future appears bright for the 5’11 and 175-pounder.
Broeden Sales, 2026, WR, St. Thomas More (SD): The 6’4 and 185-pounder could find a home with a team such as South Dakota State.
Rawlston John, 2026, WR, Harrison (CO): A big target, especially around the end zone, the 6’1 and 175-pounder turned some heads.
Raymond Sarno, 2027, WR, Cherry Creek (CO): The 5’8 and 165-pounder caught everything thrown in his direction. He was automatic.
Preston Arretteig, 2026, OL, Colorado Springs (CO): Big and strong, the 6’4 and 300-pounder moved surprisingly well, too.
Noah Vartanian, 2026, OL, Village Christian (CA): The 6’3 and 290-pounder caused problems and was a force down in the trenches.
Remy Whatcott, 2026, OL, San Juan (UT): Tough and determined, a sturdy presence, 6’2 and 285-pounder earned some respect.
Jackson Norman, 2026, OL, Skutt Catholic (NE): Never one to back down from a challenge, the 6’2 and 277-pounder held his own.
Joshua Knuckles, 2026, DB, Classical Academy (CO): The 6’1 and 180-pounder did not back back down from anyone or anything.
Hezekaiah Pearson, 2026, DB, Smoke Hill (CO): The 5’9 and 165-pounder plays both sides of the ball, but might end up on defense.
Miles Reddix, 2027, DB, Sand Creek (CO): Another two-way player, the 6’0 and 170-pounder displayed his versatility in this setting.
Sawyer Burruss, 2027, LB, Regis Jesuit (CO): The 6’2 and 210-pounder has received looks from North Dakota State and Wyoming.
Cain Brackney, 2027, LB, Union (OK): North Dakota State and Tulsa appear to have their sights set on the 6’1 and 225-pounder.
Kelson Gazdik, 2026, LB, Severance (CO): In a perfect world, the 5’9 and 195-pounder would have North Dakota State as an option.
Lijah Vialpando, 2027, LB, Columbine (CO): Good size and speed, all signs point to the future being bright for the 6’1 and 180-pounder.
Jack Offerdahl, 2026, DB, Dakota Ridge (CO): On the official roster, the 6’0 and 185-pounder has talked with Nevada and Wyoming.
Cooper McGowan, 2026, DL, Ellsworth (KS): Kansas is keeping a close eye on the 6’4 and 190-pounder. Rightfully so.
Tobyn Trottier, 2026, DL, Palisade (CO): The 6’3 and 230-pounder was difficult to deal for many opponenets. Too many to count.
Editor’s Note: When it comes to statistics from the nationwide series of All-American Combines, such as the most recent one, we’ve got you covered. For the numbers, look no further (click here).
Worth mentioning, periodically and often within days, more information about the workout will be added in this space. That said, feel free to check back on a regular basis for the much-needed insight.
Late in the summer, invitations will be extended to one of the brand’s upcoming All-American Bowls held at NFL stadium and nationally broadcast on ESPN’s family of networks or Impact Football Network.
Games take place at Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium, Buccaneers’ Raymond James Stadium, Falcons’ Mercedes Benz Stadium, Texans’ NRG Stadium or Jaguars’ EverBank Field, among other venues.
Moving forward, the Blue-Grey Football Selection Committee will consider a number of different factors before making any decision on potential invites to the All-American Bowl. Stay tuned.
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