Atlanta, Georgia- Under the leadership of Head Coach Skelton, the Newton Rams have quietly established themselves as one of the most consistent programs in Georgia high school football. Over the past two seasons, Newton has won eight games each year and has proven it can compete with some of the state’s best teams. Their 2025 campaign ended in the third round of the GHSA playoffs against eventual state champion Buford, but the Rams showed they belonged on the same field, battling the powerhouse Wolves before eventually falling short.
As the 2026 season approaches, Newton faces the challenge that many successful programs encounter: replacing key contributors from a talented graduating class. Across Georgia, teams are looking to reload after a phenomenal 2026 graduating class, and Newton is no exception. However, the Rams appear to have the talent and leadership in place to continue their upward trajectory.
One of the biggest storylines entering the season is the transition at quarterback. Four-year starter Deron Benson has graduated, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and production. Taking over the reins of the offense will be Josiah Frazier. While replacing a veteran quarterback is never easy, Coach Skelton has expressed confidence in Frazier’s abilities. He has praised the young signal-caller’s leadership qualities and believes he has the potential to accomplish great things during his time as the Rams’ starting quarterback. Frazier will have no shortage of talented playmakers around him.
Athlete Braylon Miller is expected to be one of the team’s most versatile contributors. Whether lining up on offense, defense, or special teams, Miller’s athleticism gives Newton a dynamic weapon capable of impacting games in multiple ways. His primary role may come at safety, where his ability to cover ground and make plays will be critical to the Rams’ defensive success.
Another player generating excitement is wide receiver Martez Jones. After showing flashes of potential, Jones appears ready for a breakout season. His ability to stretch the field and create explosive plays could provide Frazier with a reliable target as the offense develops throughout the year. The centerpiece of Newton’s offense, however, is running back Kevin Hartsfield. Despite only entering his junior season, Hartsfield has already established himself as one of the most dangerous backs in the state. Last season, he rushed for 1,302 yards and 12 touchdowns, consistently carrying the load for the Rams’ offense. His combination of vision, speed, and toughness makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. If Newton is going to make a deep playoff run, Hartsfield will undoubtedly be at the center of those efforts.
Competing in one of the toughest classifications in Georgia is never easy. Programs like Buford and Grayson have set the standard, consistently finding themselves among the state’s elite. Yet Newton sits just below that upper tier, waiting for its opportunity to break through. The Rams have built a strong foundation, and with a young core of talented players returning, the future looks incredibly bright.
The path to a state championship is never simple, but Newton has positioned itself as a legitimate contender for years to come. With emerging leaders at quarterback, explosive playmakers on both sides of the ball, and one of the state’s top young running backs leading the charge, the Rams are inching closer to joining Georgia’s football elite. Don’t be surprised if Newton makes a serious run at a region title this season. And if this talented young core continues to develop, a trip to Mercedes-Benz Stadium may not be far off in the future.
