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Rivals Roundtable: Which 2026 star will have an instant impact in college?

Commitment season is right around the corner and coaches are hoping they're able to land prospects who can contribute as soon as they arrive on campus. The ultimate goal, however, is to get players who have an instant impact on the team.

Which 2026 prospect will have an instant impact when he reaches the next level? Our national analyst team – Adam Friedman, John Garcia Jr., Adam Gorney, Greg Smith and Sam Spiegelman – give their takes below.

MORE: Best recruiting class at each position in 2026 cycle

CLASS OF 2025 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | Team | Position | State

CLASS OF 2026 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | Team | Position | State

CLASS OF 2027 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | Team | Position | State

TRANSFER PORTAL: Full coverage | Player ranking | Team ranking | Transfer search | Transfer Tracker

FRIEDMAN: Zion Elee

Pass rushers, regardless of age, are able to impact the game at a faster rate than most linemen so Zion Elee is my choice.