Isaiah Batten Making His Mark as Dual-Threat QB for Pope John Paul II

Photo Credit - Gavin Richardson

By Erin Reid

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A new chapter is unfolding for Class of 2026 quarterback Isaiah Batten, and it’s one built on leadership, faith, and a relentless drive to compete.

The 6-foot-3, 200-pound dual-threat quarterback has been a standout for Pope John Paul II High School, where he’s thrown for 1,720 yards, 14 passing touchdowns, and added another score on the ground this season.

His ability to extend plays and push the ball downfield has made him one of the most exciting junior quarterbacks in Middle Tennessee.

“It’s been a lot of fun playing with this offense,” Batten said. “My job is to be another coach on the field, make sure we’re all on the same page, and take what the defense gives us.”

Batten’s football journey began early — at age 5 in Franklin, Tennessee — and was inspired by his father, Roc Batten, a respected figure in Tennessee high school football.

That father-son connection continues today, as Roc now serves as head coach at JP2, a move that brought Isaiah back to Nashville this past February after a stint in Savannah.

His high school career began at Ensworth, where he played his freshman and sophomore seasons.

After transferring to Savannah for a year, the Batten family returned to Middle Tennessee when Roc accepted the top job at JP2.

Since then, Isaiah has quickly established himself as the leader of the Knights’ offense, bringing maturity and experience to the huddle.

Batten thrives on attacking defenses vertically and excels throwing on the run — something he sees as a major strength in his game. He models his play after NFL quarterbacks Matthew Stafford and Russell Wilson, admiring their arm strength, creativity, and decision-making under pressure.

Despite the impressive stats and physical tools, Batten admits the recruiting process has been slower than expected. Still, he’s earned offers from Johnson C. Smith University, Virginia Military Institute (VMI), Eastern Kentucky, and Sewanee, with hopes of gaining more interest as the season progresses.

“I plan to commit after the season,” Batten said. “I’m still looking for the school that wants me the most and is the best fit for me.”

No matter where his football future takes him, Batten remains grounded in his faith. He lives by the verse Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”

With the postseason approaching, Batten is locked in on leading JP2 deep into the playoffs — and proving he’s one of the top quarterbacks to watch in Tennessee’s 2026 class.