2026 Public Schools Top 100 Preview: No. 42 Miami Northwestern

Team Snapshot

School: Miami Northwestern (FL)

Head Coach: Jerome Thomas

Classification: FHSAA Class 4A, Region 4, District 16

2025 Finish: FHSAA Class 3A runner-up, losing 23–22 to Raines in the state final.

2026 Preview

Miami Northwestern starts 2026 in a different position than it finished 2025. Quarterback Neimann Lawrence transferred to American Heritage, and receiver Nick Lennear transferred to Miami Carol City. The Bulls are replacing the quarterback and receiver who shaped last season’s passing game.

Jerome Thomas enters his first season as head coach with enough young defensive talent to keep Northwestern dangerous while the offense finds its next identity. Ryan Mathis is a returning backfield option, while Khavon Gipson, James Briggs, Jamere Times and Eli Rauls give the Bulls pieces across the defense.

Key Players

Ryan Mathis: RB, 2027 - a returning backfield option as the Bulls break in a new quarterback.

Khavon Gipson: LB, 2028 - a young linebacker in the current defensive mix.

James Briggs: CB, 2027 - part of a young secondary that can help set the tone.

Jamere Times: S, 2028 - a young safety in a defense that may need to carry the early weeks.

Eli Rauls: EDGE, 2028 - an edge piece for a defense with a chance to be the Bulls’ foundation.