Ones to Watch: Breaking Down the Top Prospects at the 2025 USL Academy Finals

The 2025 USL Academy Finals are packed with talent, and this year’s group might be the strongest yet. From teenage pros already making waves in the USL Championship to college-bound standouts shaping their next chapter, these are the players Gen Z soccer fans need to keep an eye on. Here’s your rundown of the top prospects to watch as the next generation looks to break through.

Jack Ryan – AC Connecticut

Jack Ryan is no stranger to the big stage. Now playing collegiately at the University of Connecticut, he first made national noise by winning the USL Academy Young Player of the Tournament award back in 2023. His mix of composure, tempo-setting ability, and big-game confidence makes him a major leader for AC Connecticut heading into this year’s Finals.

Daniel Grumann – City SC

Committed to Yale University, Daniel Grumann is one of the most polished fullbacks in the field. The captain of City SC’s U19 MLS NEXT squad, he’s equally comfortable operating on either flank and brings a high-IQ, disciplined profile to the game. His leadership and versatility make him a major X-factor for City SC’s title push.

Kenneth Hoban – El Paso Locomotive FC

At just 15 years old, Kenneth Hoban made history as the youngest professional signing in El Paso Locomotive FC history when he inked his first contract in December 2024. He already has appearances in the USL Championship, the Dallas Cup Final (2024), and the 2023 USL Academy Finals. His early pro experience and maturity beyond his age make him one of the tournament’s must-watch prodigies.

Jake Alb – Indy Eleven

Jake Alb is that guy when it comes to clutch moments. He scored the game-winning goal at the 2024 USL Academy Finals and walked away with the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player. With his history of delivering under pressure, Alb returns in 2025 as one of the most dangerous attackers in the entire field.

Luca Sowinski – Lexington SC

Luca Sowinski’s journey has already taken him from Barca Residency Academy to breaking records as the youngest pro signing in FC Tulsa history at 18 years, 1 month, and 9 days old. He then dropped a professional hat-trick for Tulsa on October 1st, 2022, showcasing serious attacking upside. Now with Lexington SC, Sowinski brings experience, creativity, and goal-scoring instincts that make him a premium player to watch.

Diego Mello – Miami FC

Signed to a USL Academy contract in 2025, Diego Mello is one of Miami FC's rising technical standouts. He’s shown the ability to impact games with his precision and composure, and the club clearly believes he’s part of their long-term pathway. Expect him to play a key role as Miami looks to assert itself among the top academies in the country.

Tyson Epsy – Orange County SC

One of the nation’s most highly regarded youth prospects, Tyson Epsy is turning heads everywhere. Fresh off a call-up to the USYNT U-17 camp, he also signed his first pro deal with Orange County SC at just 16. A former standout in LAFC’s academy and a 2025 MLS NEXT All-Star selection, Epsy brings pace, creativity, and elite-level potential that makes him a headline attraction in this year’s Finals.

Grafton Kahl – Richmond Kickers

Committed to West Virginia University, Grafton Kahl is the youngest of Richmond’s 2025 USL Academy signees at just 16. Known for his versatility in the back line, he has also captained the Richmond United U17s, showing strong leadership and tactical understanding. Kahl’s mix of physicality and soccer IQ makes him one of the most reliable defenders in the competition.

Landry Walker – San Antonio FC

Another recent USYNT U-17 camp call-up, Landry Walker is quickly rising through the national spotlight. He made his professional debut on June 10, 2024, with San Antonio FC and went on to log 266 minutes across seven matches in the 2025 USL Championship season. With size, poise, and growing pro experience, Walker enters the Finals as one of the most pro-ready talents in the entire field.

If this class is any indication, the future of American soccer is looking brighter than ever. The 2025 USL Academy Finals kicks off on Dec. 4 and will be held at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.