Zach Poole, Class of 2026 // 6'6 // 325lbs // Guard // Lincoln Football
By: Jenny
Every Football Player Has A Story To Tell
Zach Poole: A Rising Star for the Class of 2026
Zach Poole, an offensive lineman for the Lincoln Railsplitters, has been making waves in the recruiting world and is quickly becoming a name to watch for the Class of 2026. At 6’6” and 325 pounds, Poole combines size, strength, and athleticism that has impressed college coaches across the country. His commitment to both on-field performance and offseason training is setting him up for success at the next level.
A Busy and Productive Fall Recruiting Season
Zach's recruiting journey began during the fall of 2023 with a series of college visits. Poole had the opportunity to tour campuses and engage with coaches.
“I had a great time on my visits to Lindenwood, Northern Iowa, and Iowa State,” Zach reflected. “Each visit gave me a better understanding of the culture and programs these schools offer. I’ve been to Illinois, Miami (Ohio), and Minnesota as well-all three of those schools have amazing facilities and great programs.”
In addition to the schools mentioned, Poole also made visits to Augustana College, Illinois College and Western Illinois. He’s building a strong network of connections, with several coaches offering positive feedback about his performance on the field. "They love my physicality and aggression when coming off the line of scrimmage," he noted. "It’s been awesome hearing that kind of feedback.”
The high school standout is planning even more visits in the spring, including return trips to Illinois, Minnesota, Lindenwood, and Western Illinois. He’ll also be making his first visits to Illinois State and Southern Illinois, with an additional stop at North Dakota State.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing how things develop this spring,” Poole added. “I’m getting more and more excited about what the future holds.”
Offseason Training: Building Strength and Speed
Poole’s commitment to his development is evident in his offseason training. Just a week after his high school season ended, he began a rigorous workout regimen designed to enhance his strength and athleticism. With guidance from Lincoln’s strength and conditioning coach, Austin Curtis, Zach has been pushing his limits in the weight room, focusing on building power and speed.
“I’ve been getting stronger and faster each day,” Zach said. “It’s been intense, but I can already feel the results. We’re working on a lot of pulling techniques, which I had a lot of success with last season. I want to build on that and continue improving.”
One area Poole has been particularly focused on is his pass protection. As an offensive lineman, his ability to protect the quarterback and keep defenders at bay is crucial. “I need to be more patient during my kick-step and allow defenders to come into my 6-inch punch zone before I make my move,” he explained. “I’m watching a lot of tape to perfect my technique, and I’m feeling good about where I’m at.”
The Class of 2025 Railsplitters
While Poole is having his own success, earning All-Conference for the Illinois CS8 conference, he’s also quick to acknowledge the contributions of his teammates. The Class of 2025 at Lincoln High School boasts players like Frank Sanders (https://x.com/franksanders69, OLB/DE| 6’3” 230, HUDL) and Paytan Bunner (https://x.com/paytanbunner, RB/FB, 6’ 220lbs, HUDL), both of whom have been putting in countless hours to perfect their craft. Poole believes these two players will be huge assets for college programs in the future.
“Frank and Paytan are going to be big-time players,” Poole stated. “They’ve been working hard off the field, and I have no doubt they’ll make an impact at the next level.” Both Frank and Paytan also earned All-Conference this past season.
College Interest and Future Plans
With his combination of size, technique, and work ethic, Poole is drawing attention from top college programs across the country. In addition to receiving mail from the University of Kentucky, Poole’s coach has received emails from coaches at Ball State, and he’s expecting a visit from Toledo’s Coach Stanton Weber.
“The interest from these schools is exciting, and it motivates me to keep working hard,” Poole shared. “I’m focused on developing myself and preparing for the next step, but I’m also grateful for all the opportunities that have come my way.”
Poole's recruitment is still in the early stages, but it's clear that his potential is undeniable. With his size, strength, and relentless work ethic, he’s set to be a major player in the Class of 2026.
Looking Ahead
As Poole continues to grow and refine his skills, his future in football is certainly bright. Whether he’s on the field for the Railsplitters or making visits to top college programs, Zach Poole’s journey is one to watch. His passion for the game, combined with his impressive physical attributes and work ethic, make him one of the most exciting recruits in the Class of 2026. “We’ve got a great group of guys here at Lincoln, and I’m excited to see where we can go in the future.”
For now, Zach remains focused on his training, his senior season, and the upcoming college visits that will shape his future. Whatever college program eventually lands Poole will be gaining a player with not only the talent but the drive to succeed at the next level.
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