Double Honor: Damari Wright Recognized Among Area's Best at Wide Receiver and Defensive Back in Division 5

 

July 17, 2026
The Nest, Inside Orchard View Athletics

By: Justin Troyer

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MUSKEGON, Mich. — The preseason accolades continue to pile up for Orchard View football.

After Ca'Mari Reese was recognized by MLive as one of the area's top quarterbacks in Division 5 and Kenyon McCauley was named one of the area's top running backs, senior Damari Wright has now earned recognition on both sides of the football. Wright has been named one of the area's top wide receivers while also being recognized as one of the top defensive backs in Division 5 entering the 2026 season.

The dual honor speaks to Wright's rare versatility and reinforces what Orchard View has known all along—he's one of the most complete football players in the area.

A standout at wide receiver, cornerback and free safety, Wright has become one of the Cardinals' most dependable playmakers. His ability to change a game offensively with his speed and ball skills is matched by his instincts and physicality in the secondary, making him an impact player every time he steps on the field.

His talent has also drawn attention from the next level, already earning an offer from Calvin University.

While Wright appreciates the recognition, his focus remains on what lies ahead.

"Being named one of the top wide receivers in Division 5 by MLive means a lot to me," Wright said. "It's an honor to be recognized, but I know it comes from the work I've put in with my teammates and coaches. I'm grateful for the recognition, but I'm focused on earning everything once the season starts."

Cardinals head coach Aaron James believes Wright's football intelligence is one of his greatest strengths.

"Super athletic and smart football player," James told MLive. "Understands concepts and has great body leverage and ball skills. Top-end speed to make plays down the field, also strength to create mismatches on quick throws. High skill level football player."

James is equally impressed with what Wright brings to the defensive side of the ball.

"Damari has great ball skills and coverage. He knows and understands defensive coverages and can read and react very well," James continued. "He is also an above average tackler who plays physically and has the ability to come downhill and make plays. One word: PLAYMAKER."

Those qualities have made Wright one of the premier defensive backs in Division 5. Whether he's locking down opposing receivers, breaking up passes, or stepping into the box to make a tackle, his versatility allows the Cardinals to trust him in virtually any defensive situation.

Offensively, Wright provides Orchard View with a dynamic deep threat capable of stretching defenses while also creating mismatches on underneath routes. His combination of speed, strength and elite ball skills makes him a dangerous target whenever the ball is in the air.

The senior's athletic ability extends well beyond football. Wright is also a standout competitor in varsity basketball and track and field, further demonstrating the explosiveness and competitiveness that have helped him become one of the West Michigan's premier athletes.

Wright credits much of his growth to the culture the Cardinals' coaching staff has built.

"Our coaching staff has done a great job keeping us disciplined, pushing us to compete every day, and making sure we're improving both physically and mentally," Wright shared with The Nest. "They've created a culture where everyone is expected to work hard and hold each other accountable."

With Reese leading the offense at quarterback, McCauley anchoring the backfield, and Wright earning recognition as both one of the area's top receivers and one of Division 5's top defensive backs, Orchard View enters the season with one of the most talented collections of skill-position players in West Michigan.

The preseason recognition reflects not only individual achievement but also the growth of a Cardinals program that continues to produce elite talent. As the season draws closer, Wright's ability to make game-changing plays on both offense and defense will be a major reason Orchard View believes it can compete with anyone on its schedule.

For Wright, however, the honors are simply motivation. The recognition is appreciated, but the ultimate goal remains unchanged: helping Orchard View turn preseason praise into success on Friday nights.

Community Contributors: Poo Patrol Muskegon