Breaking Down District 22-6A: Can Anyone Dethrone the Katy Tigers?

The road to a District 22-6A title runs through Gary Joseph and the Katy Tigers — and it has for years. But with a new quarterback under center and a loaded defense returning, the question heading into the 2026 season isn't whether Katy is the favorite. It's who has a realistic shot at knocking them off.

Dave Campbell's Texas Football analyst Matt Stepp joined HOU Inside High School Sports producer Ward Facult to break down one of the state's most competitive all-KATY ISD districts. Senior Mason Hartwell is expected to take over at quarterback after seeing time as a junior, while the defense returns seven starters — headlined by sophomore standout Judah Alludu, who picked off seven passes last season, and Texas commit Cade Hogg, a linebacker Stepp called one of the best in the state. Running back Tony Emanuel, a 1,000-yard rusher as a backup, returns to anchor the backfield. Katy is the clear favorite.

The team with the best chance to challenge them may be Katy Jordan. Coach Mike Robbey has built back-to-back third-round playoff runs, and the program brings back 14 starters after a 9-4 season. The concern: six players signed Division I scholarships and have graduated, taking the top-end talent with them. Stepp sees Jordan solidly at number two but believes they need a breakout star or two to truly contend.

Cinco Ranch finished second in the district a year ago but faces a significant rebuild. The Cougars graduated 47 seniors, must replace all five starting offensive linemen, and lose one of the best quarterbacks in school history. Wide receivers Jacob Chavez — 16 touchdowns, one of the most underrated pass-catchers in Texas — and Max Williams give the offense a foundation, but early growing pains are a real risk. In a nine-team district where games count in September, slow starts can end playoff hopes before October. The defense, which returns six starters including linebacker Christian Jackson and sophomore defensive end Chinachi Aroa, will need to carry the load early.

Tompkins brings back 11 starters and a high-ceiling quarterback in JP Bakovic, but turnovers have been an issue. If Bakovic protects the ball and gets playmakers like Ethan Meadows involved, the Falcons have enough to reach the postseason. Cornerback Blake Jenkins is among the top players at his position in the country. Depth, particularly in the senior class, remains a concern.

Paetow is another team to watch. The Panthers return 14 starters — seven on each side of the ball — but graduated 65 seniors, leaving a thin back end. Running back Curtis Zeno is one of the more underrated backs in the Houston area, and wide receiver Tyler Washington gives the offense a legitimate weapon. Stepp grouped Paetow, Tompkins, and Cinco Ranch together as the teams fighting for the final two playoff spots behind Katy and Jordan.

Katy went undefeated through district play last season before a one-point loss to Summer Creek in the postseason. In 22-6A, the margin between contender and also-ran is razor thin — and the race starts early.