The latest updates to the IMG Academy player rankings are underway. In the wake of each update, we’ll dive into some of the talking points. First up is the latest 2022 boys rankings.

Big seasons ahead for signed pros

As is usual this late in the life of a rankings, it’s a big year ahead for the bulk of the players at the top of the rankings.

The bulk of the Top 25 have all inked pro deals. That starts with goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina, who looks to be the starter in Chicago ahead of the 2022 MLS season. Justin Che is on loan from FC Dallas to Hoffenheim over in Germany. Striker Cade Cowell seeks a bigger impact and consistency in MLS. Paxten Aaronson has flashed high upside, and will look to do the same for the Union in the new MLS season.