Jamarion Carlton’s journey to becoming the top defensive line recruit in the 2026 football recruiting class is a fascinating one. Initially, Carlton had his sights set on Division I basketball, even starting on varsity as a high school freshman at 6-foot-3 ¹. However, his growth spurt slowed down, and he eventually realized that football might be his true calling.
Carlton’s athletic profile is nothing short of remarkable. He boasts a near seven-foot wingspan, impressive hops, and the agility to excel in both football and track and field events like shot put and discus ¹. His quick-twitch athleticism and lean physique make him an ideal candidate to play either edge rusher or interior defensive lineman in college.
As the No. 26 overall player in the 2026 Top247 rankings, Carlton is drawing attention from top college programs ¹. He’s added a pair of official visits to his schedule, which promises to be hectic in the coming spring and summer. With his raw talent, growing technique, and infectious enthusiasm, Carlton is poised to make a significant impact on the college football scene.
