BY KSHSAA COVERED

CALIN ARNDT, ST. THOMAS AQUINAS

During St. Thomas Aquinas’ state championship season, there were many reasons the Saints had success and Arndt was toward the top of the list. Arndt put together a strong junior season at running back for the Saints as he tallied 2,000 yards rushing to go along with 27 touchdowns, including a 221-yard performance in one game and 156-yard showing in the state championship game. That season put him second on Aquinas’ single season rushing list and ranks sixth in career rushing. He was also a first team All-Eastern Kansas League and All-State Top 11 selection as he helped coach Randy Dreiling to his 10th state championship. 

LAMARCUS BARBER, MILL VALLEY

Barber was a force to be reckoned with for opposing defenses on the offensive line for the Jaguars. The 6-foot-4, 300-pound lineman had a big junior season as he helped Mill Valley to a 9-2 record before falling to eventual state champion, St. Thomas Aquinas, by one point in the sectional round. The Kansas State commit also reeled in postseason honors as he was a first team All-Sunflower League and first-tem All-Class 5A selection. 

CAMERON BRIAN, SEAMAN

After seeing limited time as a sophomore, Brian moved into a starting linebacker role last year and teamed with 2023 leading tackler Hayden Cummings to give Seaman a dynamic duo in the middle of its defense. Brian wound up displacing Cummings as the Vikings’ leading tackler last year, recording 63 solo tackles on his way to a team-high 112 stops overall. He ranked third on the team with 10 tackles for loss and earned first-team All-United Kansas Conference honors. Brian is one of six returning starters on defense, but could have to be an even bigger playmaker with not only Cummings graduating, but also the Vikings’ entire defensive front from a year ago.

STEPHEN CARROLL, ST. THOMAS AQUINAS

Carroll literally helped pave the way for Aquinas state championship in 2024. As the team’s starting right guard, he helped the Saints amass 4,700 yards of total offense during their title run and recorded 131 pancake blocks. He is known as the only freshman to start under legendary coach Randy Dreiling, who won his 10th state title last year. Carroll hopes for another breakout season after earning All-State Top 11 and first team All-Eastern Kansas League honors. He is committed to Central Arkansas and is also a wrestling state runner-up.

GUS CORSAIR, HAYS

Corsair enters his junior season having already established himself as one of the top offensive lineman in the state. The 6-foot-3, 285-pounder has several Division I offers from power conferences. He helped the Indians reach the Class 5A state championship game last year and didn’t allow a sack all season. Corsair played center last year and is expected to move to guard this season. He will also likely see some action on defense. Corsair was first-team All-5A selection last season. 

CARSON DIXON, BASEHOR-LINWOOD

Dixon made big strides as the signal-caller for the Bobcats in 2024, in what was his first year as a starter. He completed 57 percent of his passes for 1,828 yards and recorded 22 touchdowns through the air compared to just five interceptions. He finished as an honorable mention quarterback in the United Kansas Conference as he led the Bobcats to an 8-2 record and a first-place league finish, before falling to St. James Academy in the regional round. Dixon is also a member of the track team where he helped set a new school record in the 4x100 relay. 

JAMES FEISER, LIBERAL

A 6-foot-2, 185-pound receiver, Fieser is one of the top skill players in the Western Athletic Conference. He was honorable mention All-5A and a first-team all-league a year ago when he caught 33 passes for 783 and nine touchdowns, helping Liberal go 7-3. Fieser enters his senior season with 1,351 receiving yards and 14 TDs. He is also a basketball standout for the Redskins.

JULIAN GALLEGOS, EISENHOWER

While record-setting receiver Carter Pabst got a lot of Eisenhower’s statistical attention last season, Gallegos put together his own big season on the defensive side of the ball. The junior linebacker recorded a school-record 129 tackles – 72 solo stops and 57 assists – to help the Tigers post a 9-3 record and reach the Class 5A semifinals. Gallegos, a second-team All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail II selection, is one of seven returning defensive starters for Eisenhower this season.

TANNER GEIST, HAYS

Geist delivered a breakout season on the defensive line for the state runner-up Indians last year. He logged 70 tackles, 15 tackles for loss and nine sacks as a sophomore. The powerful 6-foot-2, 260-pounder is an all-state caliber player who will again anchor the Indians’ D-line. Geist was a first-team All-Western Athletic Conference selection in 2024.

HUNTER HIGGINS, MAIZE SOUTH

Higgins, a 6-foot-5, 255-pound senior, begins his fourth season as a starter for the Mavericks with a University of Kansas commitment in hand. A defensive end and tight end, Higgins earned his accolades on defense last season, recording 63 tackles – 10 for loss – and 13 sacks as a first-team All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail I selection. For his career, Higgins has 195 tackles – 20 for loss – with six forced fumbles. He was a second-team all-league selection on the defensive line as a sophomore, and has helped the Mavericks post a 14-7 record over the last two seasons.

ROBERT HUNTER, HUTCHINSON

Hunter, a senior quarterback and defensive back, is back at Hutchinson after spending the 2024 season at Wichita East, where he directed the Blue Aces to a 7-4 record and a thrilling playoff victory over Dodge City. A dual-threat player, Hunter passed for 1,605 yards and 18 touchdowns a year ago while running for 409 yards and 5 scores. He earned All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail I honorable mention as the Salthawks’ quarterback two seasons ago. After receiving All-Class 6A and All-Greater Wichita Athletic League honorable mention last fall, Hunter committed to South Dakota State. 

BLAKE JAY, MILL VALLEY

Jay made an impact on both sides of the ball for the Jaguars in 2024 as they finished with a 9-2 record. The Mill Valley wide receiver had eight catches for 234 yards to go along with 215 rushing yards and four touchdowns. At defensive back, Jay finished the season with 43 tackles and an interception as a first-year starter. It was his defense that earned him first-team All-Sunflower League and first-team All-Class 5A recognition.

TRENTON KERN, GREAT BEND

Kern was indispensable on both sides of the ball for the Panthers last year. The linebacker is the reigning Western Athletic Conference defensive player of the year after notching 112 tackles, 3 sacks and 6 tackles for loss. He was also a second-team All-WAC pick on the offensive line and handled punting duties for the Panthers early in the season. Kern was a first-team All-5A selection on defense. He’ll lead a linebacker corps that also includes his brother Kale, and Jaxon Wondra. The Panthers return nine starters on defense off last year’s squad that went 9-1 but lost in the second round of the playoffs to eventual runner-up Hays. 

NOAH KOBUSZEWSKI, SEAMAN

Kobuszewski’s size – 6-4, 240 – not only makes him a coveted tight end recruit, but also a big target in what’s been a lethal Seaman passing game the past two seasons. Overshadowed a bit the past two seasons by All-5A receivers Callen Barta and Bryer Finley, Kobuszewski has been a strong complement. His 38 catches last year ranked second to Finley, as did his 325 yards. The numbers were down slightly from a breakout sophomore season where he caught 45 passes for 482 yards. With Finley gone, Kobuszewski will be a reliable weapon for incoming quarterback Cale Ketter and could get more looks in the red zone after only having 3 touchdown catches the past two seasons combined.

BRAXTON KOLLER, GODDARD

After back-to-back 6-3 seasons, Goddard coach Tommy Beason indicated the Lions will transition from a run-heavy, three-back look to a spread-option offense this fall. In Koller, one of seven returning starters, they have a returning unanimous All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail II first-team lineman to build around. The 5-foot-11, 260-pound Koller helped pave the way for a Goddard rushing attack that averaged nearly 260 yards per game last season. Two of the statistical leaders from that unit, quarterback Brock Sullivan and running back Erik Olivas, are back to run behind Koller and Co.

HOLDEN LIND, HAYS

After missing his sophomore season because of injury, Lind emerged as Hays’ top offensive playmaker last year, rushing for over 1,600 yards and 11 touchdowns. He was also an effective receiving threat out of the backfield, catching 7 TDs on the season including one in Hays’ loss to Aquinas in the state title game. Lind, a 5-foot-8, 175-pounder, will look to further establish himself as one of the state’s best running backs in his senior season. He earned first-team All-Western Athletic Conference and honorable mention All-5A honors in 2024.

NATE MARTIN, BASEHOR-LINWOOD

Martin has been a fixture in the Bobcat lineup for the last several seasons as he is a four-year starter and will be the team’s only two-way player this season. At defensive back, Martin has been among the tackling and interceptions leaders on the team in each of his previous three seasons and has three kick returns for touchdowns. Last season, Martin had 54 tackles, two interceptions, a blocked punt and a kick return for a score. He earned first team all-league defensive back honors in 2024. This season, Martin will also be heavily involved with the offense as a wide receiver. 

DY’VAIR MCCRAY, LEAVENWORTH

McCray was the backbone of the Leavenworth defense in 2024 as the strong safety had his best season to date. McCray, who is a 3-year starter for the Pioneers, finished the season with 53 tackles, three interceptions and one touchdown. He also made himself known on offense as well as having 19 catches for 344 yards and six touchdowns at wide receiver. McCray didn’t stop there as he also ran back three touchdowns on special teams. He earned first-team All-United Kansas Conference honors as a defensive back and second-team returner as Leavenworth finished the season with a 6-4 record. 

DAXTON MINTON, GREAT BEND

Minton is back to direct a dynamic Panther offense. The three-year starter is a dual threat, throwing for 1,306 yards with 17 touchdowns and rushing for 412 yards and 5 TDs as a junior. Minton threw for a season-high 237 yards against Buhler and threw 5 TDs in that game, all to Notre Dame commit Ian Premer. He finished the season with a 65% completion rate and just 5 interceptions on the season. Minton earned first-team All-Western Athletic Conference honors and was honorable mention All-5A. The Panthers enter the season ranked No. 3 in 5A by KSHSAA Covered.

G’HONI MONTGOMERY, HIGHLAND PARK

After losing playmaker Jamon Wilson off last year’s 6-3 team, Highland Park has touches to go around this year after Wilson led the Scots in both rushing and receiving as coach Jermaine Monroe looked to get the Pittsburg State signee the ball in space. A bulk of those could go Montgomery’s way as he served as a strong complement to Wilson in the running game. Montgomery already had a team-high 91 carries last year and finished with 737 yards and 9 touchdowns, sharing the TD rushing lead with Wilson and finishing just 27 yards off his team-high 764. Montgomery will team with returning quarterback Dontrail Fox, who threw for 1,175 yards and 12 touchdowns, to give the Scots two strong weapons and Montgomery could be featured more in the passing game this year after catching just four passes last year. He was a second-team All-Meadowlark Conference selection.

COOPER OHNMACHT, GREAT BEND

Ohnmacht’s versatility made him an X-factor for the Panthers’ offense last year as a sophomore. He caught 35 passes for 466 yards and 6 touchdowns, also proving to be an effective gadget guy with four passing TDs. Ohnmacht, who already holds offers from Kansas State and Iowa State, is also a starting safety who logged 31 tackles last year. He was a first-team All-Western Athletic Conference pick as an athlete and was honorable mention All-5A. Ohnmacht captured his second straight Class 5A triple jump title last spring.

BRAYDEN PAPPAS, EISENHOWER

Part of Eisenhower’s success formula the past two seasons involved having a perfect complement to the quarterback-receiver combo of Derek Morgan and Carter Pabst. In 2023, it was Lucas Dickman who ran for 1,847 yards and 16 touchdowns. Last year, it was Pappas who supplied many of the tough yards, running for 1,218 yards and 7 touchdowns to earn second-team All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail II honors. With Morgan off to Lehigh and Pabst off to Washington State, Pappas figures to have a central role in the Tigers’ offense after producing seven 100-yard games on 202 carries in a 9-3 season in 2024. 

TYREN PARKER, SHAWNEE HEIGHTS

Shawnee Heights boasted one of the state’s top passing attacks and Parker was a huge part of it, moving into a starting receiver role after starting in the defensive secondary as a sophomore. After having only 10 catches for 238 yards as a sophomore, Parker exploded last year, hauling in 50 passes for 946 yards and 11 touchdowns, his yardage total a school record. He was one of two T-Bird receivers with at least 50 catches as fellow returner AJ Gallegos had 51 catches for 842 yards and 10 TDs. With quarterback Aiden Scott (3,103 yards, 32 TDs) also back, Heights will once again have one of, if not the, best passing games in 5A. Parker, a University of Kansas commit, remained a starter in the secondary last year and had 48 tackles and 2 interceptions. He also returns kicks and earned All-United Kansas Conference honors on offense and defense, including first-team honors at receiver.

DE'MARUS PARTEE, PITTSBURG

Partee was the anchor of the Purple Dragons’ defense last season as he caused havoc on opposing offenses. The Pittsburg linebacker, who is a 3-year starter, had a big junior year as he tallied 66 tackles to go along with 34 solo stops. Partee finished with 20 tackles for a loss and eight sacks, while also forcing three fumbles and recording a touchdown. Those numbers helped him earn first-team all-state honors as he will lead a Dragon team that will try to improve on their 7-3 record from a season ago. 

PARKER PINAMONTI, PITTSBURG

Pinamonti was a big reason for the Purple Dragons’ success in 2024. The Pittsburg lineman made an impact on both sides of the ball, especially on the defensive side. Pinamonti finished with 52 tackles to go along with six sacks, 18 tackles for loss and two fumble recoveries. He will be a two-way starter for a Pittsburg team that finished with a 7-3 record last season and ended in the state playoffs with a loss to eventual state champion, St. Thomas Aquinas. Pinamonti earned honorable mention all-state honors. Great Bend's Ian Premer 

IAN PREMER, GREAT BEND

Arguably the top athlete in the state, Premer will look to help Great Bend contend for a Class 5A title in his final season before heading off to South Bend next year as a Notre Dame commit. He committed to the Fighting Irish last June after being ranked as one of the top tight end prospects in the nation. The 6-foot-6, 230-pound Premer headlines an experienced receiving corps for the Panthers. He caught 29 passes for 521 yards and 8 touchdowns last season, with five of his TDs coming in one game against Buhler. The defensive attention devoted to Premer helped create opportunities for the Panthers’ other key playmakers during their 9-1 season. Premer was named to the All-5A first team and the Western Athletic Conference offensive player of the year. The three-sport star earned All-StateTop basketball honors as a junior.

REGGIE REECE, MILL VALLEY

With the help of his offensive line, including K-State commit Larmarcus Barber, Reece ran his way to a successful junior season for the Jaguars. The Mill Valley running back tallied 1,948 yards on 233 carries and had 25 touchdowns on the year. He ended the season one yard shy of the school’s single season rushing record. Reece also quickly became one of the top running backs in the state as he earned first team All-Sunflower League and Second 11 All-State honors. He will be a big focus for opposing defenses as Reece tries to get the Jaguars back to the state title game after falling to St. Thomas Aquinas in the sectional round. 

AIDEN SCOTT, SHAWNEE HEIGHTS

Scott completed 190 of 317 pass attempts for 3,103 yards and 32 touchdowns while getting picked off just six times. His season including a school-record 593-yard game, 7-touchdown game against De Soto, one of several school records he broke last year. Scott also set school records for completions in a game (29) and season (190), attempts in a season (317), yards in a season (3,103), passing TDs in a season (32) and career (37). Scott returns his top-three receivers from a year ago, including University of Kansas signee Tyren Parker and AJ Gallegos, each of whom had at least 50 catches, 900 yards and 10 TDs last year. Scott has committed to Washburn and will look to turn the statistical success into win-loss success after Heights went just 2-7 last year.

KADEN SNYDER, SALINA CENTRAL

The 6-foot-5, 292-pound Snyder returns as part of big group up front for the Mustangs who’ll pave the way for senior running back Cooper Reves, an 1,141-yard rusher last season. Snyder is complemented by 290-pound junior Warrick VanBlaricon and a pair of 250-pound seniors in Saijon Mills and Noah Peck. Snyder, a first-team All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail II selection last season and a second-team pick two years ago, will try to help Central improve on a 4-5 record. In January, Snyder committed to play at Kansas

SAVION STONE, KC WASHINGTON

Stone put together a historic season for the Wildcat program in 2024 as he helped guide Washington to a 6-3 record, which was its best mark since 2019. The dual-threat quarterback also provided problems for opposing defenses as he threw and rushed for more than 1,000 yards. Stone is believed to be the first quarterback in Kansas City Kansas Public School history to accomplish such a feat. He completed 86 of 150 passes for 1,250 yards and 12 touchdowns, while he rushed for 1,039 yards and 10 more scores. He earned first team All-Meadowlark Conference honors and was an honorable mention all-state selection. 

COLIN ZIMBELMAN, BASEHOR-LINWOOD

Zimbelman is entering his third season as the Bobcats’ starting kicker after a successful sophomore campaign. He converted 42 off 44 extra point tries and converted 5 of 8 field goals attempts to go along with 14 touchbacks. After earning honorable mention all-league as a freshman, Zimbelman was recognized with first team All-United Kansas Conference honors last season and also was first-team All-Class 5A.

CALIN ARNDT, ST. THOMAS AQUINAS

During St. Thomas Aquinas’ state championship season, there were many reasons the Saints had success and Arndt was toward the top of the list. Arndt put together a strong junior season at running back for the Saints as he tallied 2,000 yards rushing to go along with 27 touchdowns, including a 221-yard performance in one game and 156-yard showing in the state championship game. That season put him second on Aquinas’ single season rushing list and ranks sixth in career rushing. He was also a first team All-Eastern Kansas League and All-State Top 11 selection as he helped coach Randy Dreiling to his 10th state championship. 

LAMARCUS BARBER, MILL VALLEY

Barber was a force to be reckoned with for opposing defenses on the offensive line for the Jaguars. The 6-foot-4, 300-pound lineman had a big junior season as he helped Mill Valley to a 9-2 record before falling to eventual state champion, St. Thomas Aquinas, by one point in the sectional round. The Kansas State commit also reeled in postseason honors as he was a first team All-Sunflower League and first-tem All-Class 5A selection. 

CAMERON BRIAN, SEAMAN

After seeing limited time as a sophomore, Brian moved into a starting linebacker role last year and teamed with 2023 leading tackler Hayden Cummings to give Seaman a dynamic duo in the middle of its defense. Brian wound up displacing Cummings as the Vikings’ leading tackler last year, recording 63 solo tackles on his way to a team-high 112 stops overall. He ranked third on the team with 10 tackles for loss and earned first-team All-United Kansas Conference honors. Brian is one of six returning starters on defense, but could have to be an even bigger playmaker with not only Cummings graduating, but also the Vikings’ entire defensive front from a year ago.

STEPHEN CARROLL, ST. THOMAS AQUINAS

Carroll literally helped pave the way for Aquinas state championship in 2024. As the team’s starting right guard, he helped the Saints amass 4,700 yards of total offense during their title run and recorded 131 pancake blocks. He is known as the only freshman to start under legendary coach Randy Dreiling, who won his 10th state title last year. Carroll hopes for another breakout season after earning All-State Top 11 and first team All-Eastern Kansas League honors. He is committed to Central Arkansas and is also a wrestling state runner-up.

GUS CORSAIR, HAYS

Corsair enters his junior season having already established himself as one of the top offensive lineman in the state. The 6-foot-3, 285-pounder has several Division I offers from power conferences. He helped the Indians reach the Class 5A state championship game last year and didn’t allow a sack all season. Corsair played center last year and is expected to move to guard this season. He will also likely see some action on defense. Corsair was first-team All-5A selection last season. 

CARSON DIXON, BASEHOR-LINWOOD

Dixon made big strides as the signal-caller for the Bobcats in 2024, in what was his first year as a starter. He completed 57 percent of his passes for 1,828 yards and recorded 22 touchdowns through the air compared to just five interceptions. He finished as an honorable mention quarterback in the United Kansas Conference as he led the Bobcats to an 8-2 record and a first-place league finish, before falling to St. James Academy in the regional round. Dixon is also a member of the track team where he helped set a new school record in the 4x100 relay. 

JAMES FEISER, LIBERAL

A 6-foot-2, 185-pound receiver, Fieser is one of the top skill players in the Western Athletic Conference. He was honorable mention All-5A and a first-team all-league a year ago when he caught 33 passes for 783 and nine touchdowns, helping Liberal go 7-3. Fieser enters his senior season with 1,351 receiving yards and 14 TDs. He is also a basketball standout for the Redskins.

JULIAN GALLEGOS, EISENHOWER

While record-setting receiver Carter Pabst got a lot of Eisenhower’s statistical attention last season, Gallegos put together his own big season on the defensive side of the ball. The junior linebacker recorded a school-record 129 tackles – 72 solo stops and 57 assists – to help the Tigers post a 9-3 record and reach the Class 5A semifinals. Gallegos, a second-team All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail II selection, is one of seven returning defensive starters for Eisenhower this season.

TANNER GEIST, HAYS

Geist delivered a breakout season on the defensive line for the state runner-up Indians last year. He logged 70 tackles, 15 tackles for loss and nine sacks as a sophomore. The powerful 6-foot-2, 260-pounder is an all-state caliber player who will again anchor the Indians’ D-line. Geist was a first-team All-Western Athletic Conference selection in 2024.

HUNTER HIGGINS, MAIZE SOUTH

Higgins, a 6-foot-5, 255-pound senior, begins his fourth season as a starter for the Mavericks with a University of Kansas commitment in hand. A defensive end and tight end, Higgins earned his accolades on defense last season, recording 63 tackles – 10 for loss – and 13 sacks as a first-team All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail I selection. For his career, Higgins has 195 tackles – 20 for loss – with six forced fumbles. He was a second-team all-league selection on the defensive line as a sophomore, and has helped the Mavericks post a 14-7 record over the last two seasons.

ROBERT HUNTER, HUTCHINSON

Hunter, a senior quarterback and defensive back, is back at Hutchinson after spending the 2024 season at Wichita East, where he directed the Blue Aces to a 7-4 record and a thrilling playoff victory over Dodge City. A dual-threat player, Hunter passed for 1,605 yards and 18 touchdowns a year ago while running for 409 yards and 5 scores. He earned All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail I honorable mention as the Salthawks’ quarterback two seasons ago. After receiving All-Class 6A and All-Greater Wichita Athletic League honorable mention last fall, Hunter committed to South Dakota State. 

BLAKE JAY, MILL VALLEY

Jay made an impact on both sides of the ball for the Jaguars in 2024 as they finished with a 9-2 record. The Mill Valley wide receiver had eight catches for 234 yards to go along with 215 rushing yards and four touchdowns. At defensive back, Jay finished the season with 43 tackles and an interception as a first-year starter. It was his defense that earned him first-team All-Sunflower League and first-team All-Class 5A recognition.

TRENTON KERN, GREAT BEND

Kern was indispensable on both sides of the ball for the Panthers last year. The linebacker is the reigning Western Athletic Conference defensive player of the year after notching 112 tackles, 3 sacks and 6 tackles for loss. He was also a second-team All-WAC pick on the offensive line and handled punting duties for the Panthers early in the season. Kern was a first-team All-5A selection on defense. He’ll lead a linebacker corps that also includes his brother Kale, and Jaxon Wondra. The Panthers return nine starters on defense off last year’s squad that went 9-1 but lost in the second round of the playoffs to eventual runner-up Hays. 

NOAH KOBUSZEWSKI, SEAMAN

Kobuszewski’s size – 6-4, 240 – not only makes him a coveted tight end recruit, but also a big target in what’s been a lethal Seaman passing game the past two seasons. Overshadowed a bit the past two seasons by All-5A receivers Callen Barta and Bryer Finley, Kobuszewski has been a strong complement. His 38 catches last year ranked second to Finley, as did his 325 yards. The numbers were down slightly from a breakout sophomore season where he caught 45 passes for 482 yards. With Finley gone, Kobuszewski will be a reliable weapon for incoming quarterback Cale Ketter and could get more looks in the red zone after only having 3 touchdown catches the past two seasons combined.

BRAXTON KOLLER, GODDARD

After back-to-back 6-3 seasons, Goddard coach Tommy Beason indicated the Lions will transition from a run-heavy, three-back look to a spread-option offense this fall. In Koller, one of seven returning starters, they have a returning unanimous All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail II first-team lineman to build around. The 5-foot-11, 260-pound Koller helped pave the way for a Goddard rushing attack that averaged nearly 260 yards per game last season. Two of the statistical leaders from that unit, quarterback Brock Sullivan and running back Erik Olivas, are back to run behind Koller and Co.

HOLDEN LIND, HAYS

After missing his sophomore season because of injury, Lind emerged as Hays’ top offensive playmaker last year, rushing for over 1,600 yards and 11 touchdowns. He was also an effective receiving threat out of the backfield, catching 7 TDs on the season including one in Hays’ loss to Aquinas in the state title game. Lind, a 5-foot-8, 175-pounder, will look to further establish himself as one of the state’s best running backs in his senior season. He earned first-team All-Western Athletic Conference and honorable mention All-5A honors in 2024.

NATE MARTIN, BASEHOR-LINWOOD

Martin has been a fixture in the Bobcat lineup for the last several seasons as he is a four-year starter and will be the team’s only two-way player this season. At defensive back, Martin has been among the tackling and interceptions leaders on the team in each of his previous three seasons and has three kick returns for touchdowns. Last season, Martin had 54 tackles, two interceptions, a blocked punt and a kick return for a score. He earned first team all-league defensive back honors in 2024. This season, Martin will also be heavily involved with the offense as a wide receiver. 

DY’VAIR MCCRAY, LEAVENWORTH

McCray was the backbone of the Leavenworth defense in 2024 as the strong safety had his best season to date. McCray, who is a 3-year starter for the Pioneers, finished the season with 53 tackles, three interceptions and one touchdown. He also made himself known on offense as well as having 19 catches for 344 yards and six touchdowns at wide receiver. McCray didn’t stop there as he also ran back three touchdowns on special teams. He earned first-team All-United Kansas Conference honors as a defensive back and second-team returner as Leavenworth finished the season with a 6-4 record. 

DAXTON MINTON, GREAT BEND

Minton is back to direct a dynamic Panther offense. The three-year starter is a dual threat, throwing for 1,306 yards with 17 touchdowns and rushing for 412 yards and 5 TDs as a junior. Minton threw for a season-high 237 yards against Buhler and threw 5 TDs in that game, all to Notre Dame commit Ian Premer. He finished the season with a 65% completion rate and just 5 interceptions on the season. Minton earned first-team All-Western Athletic Conference honors and was honorable mention All-5A. The Panthers enter the season ranked No. 3 in 5A by KSHSAA Covered.

G’HONI MONTGOMERY, HIGHLAND PARK

After losing playmaker Jamon Wilson off last year’s 6-3 team, Highland Park has touches to go around this year after Wilson led the Scots in both rushing and receiving as coach Jermaine Monroe looked to get the Pittsburg State signee the ball in space. A bulk of those could go Montgomery’s way as he served as a strong complement to Wilson in the running game. Montgomery already had a team-high 91 carries last year and finished with 737 yards and 9 touchdowns, sharing the TD rushing lead with Wilson and finishing just 27 yards off his team-high 764. Montgomery will team with returning quarterback Dontrail Fox, who threw for 1,175 yards and 12 touchdowns, to give the Scots two strong weapons and Montgomery could be featured more in the passing game this year after catching just four passes last year. He was a second-team All-Meadowlark Conference selection.

COOPER OHNMACHT, GREAT BEND

Ohnmacht’s versatility made him an X-factor for the Panthers’ offense last year as a sophomore. He caught 35 passes for 466 yards and 6 touchdowns, also proving to be an effective gadget guy with four passing TDs. Ohnmacht, who already holds offers from Kansas State and Iowa State, is also a starting safety who logged 31 tackles last year. He was a first-team All-Western Athletic Conference pick as an athlete and was honorable mention All-5A. Ohnmacht captured his second straight Class 5A triple jump title last spring.

BRAYDEN PAPPAS, EISENHOWER

Part of Eisenhower’s success formula the past two seasons involved having a perfect complement to the quarterback-receiver combo of Derek Morgan and Carter Pabst. In 2023, it was Lucas Dickman who ran for 1,847 yards and 16 touchdowns. Last year, it was Pappas who supplied many of the tough yards, running for 1,218 yards and 7 touchdowns to earn second-team All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail II honors. With Morgan off to Lehigh and Pabst off to Washington State, Pappas figures to have a central role in the Tigers’ offense after producing seven 100-yard games on 202 carries in a 9-3 season in 2024. 

TYREN PARKER, SHAWNEE HEIGHTS

Shawnee Heights boasted one of the state’s top passing attacks and Parker was a huge part of it, moving into a starting receiver role after starting in the defensive secondary as a sophomore. After having only 10 catches for 238 yards as a sophomore, Parker exploded last year, hauling in 50 passes for 946 yards and 11 touchdowns, his yardage total a school record. He was one of two T-Bird receivers with at least 50 catches as fellow returner AJ Gallegos had 51 catches for 842 yards and 10 TDs. With quarterback Aiden Scott (3,103 yards, 32 TDs) also back, Heights will once again have one of, if not the, best passing games in 5A. Parker, a University of Kansas commit, remained a starter in the secondary last year and had 48 tackles and 2 interceptions. He also returns kicks and earned All-United Kansas Conference honors on offense and defense, including first-team honors at receiver.

DE'MARUS PARTEE, PITTSBURG

Partee was the anchor of the Purple Dragons’ defense last season as he caused havoc on opposing offenses. The Pittsburg linebacker, who is a 3-year starter, had a big junior year as he tallied 66 tackles to go along with 34 solo stops. Partee finished with 20 tackles for a loss and eight sacks, while also forcing three fumbles and recording a touchdown. Those numbers helped him earn first-team all-state honors as he will lead a Dragon team that will try to improve on their 7-3 record from a season ago. 

PARKER PINAMONTI, PITTSBURG

Pinamonti was a big reason for the Purple Dragons’ success in 2024. The Pittsburg lineman made an impact on both sides of the ball, especially on the defensive side. Pinamonti finished with 52 tackles to go along with six sacks, 18 tackles for loss and two fumble recoveries. He will be a two-way starter for a Pittsburg team that finished with a 7-3 record last season and ended in the state playoffs with a loss to eventual state champion, St. Thomas Aquinas. Pinamonti earned honorable mention all-state honors. Great Bend's Ian Premer 

IAN PREMER, GREAT BEND

Arguably the top athlete in the state, Premer will look to help Great Bend contend for a Class 5A title in his final season before heading off to South Bend next year as a Notre Dame commit. He committed to the Fighting Irish last June after being ranked as one of the top tight end prospects in the nation. The 6-foot-6, 230-pound Premer headlines an experienced receiving corps for the Panthers. He caught 29 passes for 521 yards and 8 touchdowns last season, with five of his TDs coming in one game against Buhler. The defensive attention devoted to Premer helped create opportunities for the Panthers’ other key playmakers during their 9-1 season. Premer was named to the All-5A first team and the Western Athletic Conference offensive player of the year. The three-sport star earned All-StateTop basketball honors as a junior.

REGGIE REECE, MILL VALLEY

With the help of his offensive line, including K-State commit Larmarcus Barber, Reece ran his way to a successful junior season for the Jaguars. The Mill Valley running back tallied 1,948 yards on 233 carries and had 25 touchdowns on the year. He ended the season one yard shy of the school’s single season rushing record. Reece also quickly became one of the top running backs in the state as he earned first team All-Sunflower League and Second 11 All-State honors. He will be a big focus for opposing defenses as Reece tries to get the Jaguars back to the state title game after falling to St. Thomas Aquinas in the sectional round. 

AIDEN SCOTT, SHAWNEE HEIGHTS

Scott completed 190 of 317 pass attempts for 3,103 yards and 32 touchdowns while getting picked off just six times. His season including a school-record 593-yard game, 7-touchdown game against De Soto, one of several school records he broke last year. Scott also set school records for completions in a game (29) and season (190), attempts in a season (317), yards in a season (3,103), passing TDs in a season (32) and career (37). Scott returns his top-three receivers from a year ago, including University of Kansas signee Tyren Parker and AJ Gallegos, each of whom had at least 50 catches, 900 yards and 10 TDs last year. Scott has committed to Washburn and will look to turn the statistical success into win-loss success after Heights went just 2-7 last year.

KADEN SNYDER, SALINA CENTRAL

The 6-foot-5, 292-pound Snyder returns as part of big group up front for the Mustangs who’ll pave the way for senior running back Cooper Reves, an 1,141-yard rusher last season. Snyder is complemented by 290-pound junior Warrick VanBlaricon and a pair of 250-pound seniors in Saijon Mills and Noah Peck. Snyder, a first-team All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail II selection last season and a second-team pick two years ago, will try to help Central improve on a 4-5 record. In January, Snyder committed to play at Kansas

SAVION STONE, KC WASHINGTON

Stone put together a historic season for the Wildcat program in 2024 as he helped guide Washington to a 6-3 record, which was its best mark since 2019. The dual-threat quarterback also provided problems for opposing defenses as he threw and rushed for more than 1,000 yards. Stone is believed to be the first quarterback in Kansas City Kansas Public School history to accomplish such a feat. He completed 86 of 150 passes for 1,250 yards and 12 touchdowns, while he rushed for 1,039 yards and 10 more scores. He earned first team All-Meadowlark Conference honors and was an honorable mention all-state selection. 

COLIN ZIMBELMAN, BASEHOR-LINWOOD

Zimbelman is entering his third season as the Bobcats’ starting kicker after a successful sophomore campaign. He converted 42 off 44 extra point tries and converted 5 of 8 field goals attempts to go along with 14 touchbacks. After earning honorable mention all-league as a freshman, Zimbelman was recognized with first team All-United Kansas Conference honors last season and also was first-team All-Class 5A.

CALIN ARNDT, ST. THOMAS AQUINAS

During St. Thomas Aquinas’ state championship season, there were many reasons the Saints had success and Arndt was toward the top of the list. Arndt put together a strong junior season at running back for the Saints as he tallied 2,000 yards rushing to go along with 27 touchdowns, including a 221-yard performance in one game and 156-yard showing in the state championship game. That season put him second on Aquinas’ single season rushing list and ranks sixth in career rushing. He was also a first team All-Eastern Kansas League and All-State Top 11 selection as he helped coach Randy Dreiling to his 10th state championship. 

LAMARCUS BARBER, MILL VALLEY

Barber was a force to be reckoned with for opposing defenses on the offensive line for the Jaguars. The 6-foot-4, 300-pound lineman had a big junior season as he helped Mill Valley to a 9-2 record before falling to eventual state champion, St. Thomas Aquinas, by one point in the sectional round. The Kansas State commit also reeled in postseason honors as he was a first team All-Sunflower League and first-tem All-Class 5A selection. 

CAMERON BRIAN, SEAMAN

After seeing limited time as a sophomore, Brian moved into a starting linebacker role last year and teamed with 2023 leading tackler Hayden Cummings to give Seaman a dynamic duo in the middle of its defense. Brian wound up displacing Cummings as the Vikings’ leading tackler last year, recording 63 solo tackles on his way to a team-high 112 stops overall. He ranked third on the team with 10 tackles for loss and earned first-team All-United Kansas Conference honors. Brian is one of six returning starters on defense, but could have to be an even bigger playmaker with not only Cummings graduating, but also the Vikings’ entire defensive front from a year ago.

STEPHEN CARROLL, ST. THOMAS AQUINAS

Carroll literally helped pave the way for Aquinas state championship in 2024. As the team’s starting right guard, he helped the Saints amass 4,700 yards of total offense during their title run and recorded 131 pancake blocks. He is known as the only freshman to start under legendary coach Randy Dreiling, who won his 10th state title last year. Carroll hopes for another breakout season after earning All-State Top 11 and first team All-Eastern Kansas League honors. He is committed to Central Arkansas and is also a wrestling state runner-up.

GUS CORSAIR, HAYS

Corsair enters his junior season having already established himself as one of the top offensive lineman in the state. The 6-foot-3, 285-pounder has several Division I offers from power conferences. He helped the Indians reach the Class 5A state championship game last year and didn’t allow a sack all season. Corsair played center last year and is expected to move to guard this season. He will also likely see some action on defense. Corsair was first-team All-5A selection last season. 

CARSON DIXON, BASEHOR-LINWOOD

Dixon made big strides as the signal-caller for the Bobcats in 2024, in what was his first year as a starter. He completed 57 percent of his passes for 1,828 yards and recorded 22 touchdowns through the air compared to just five interceptions. He finished as an honorable mention quarterback in the United Kansas Conference as he led the Bobcats to an 8-2 record and a first-place league finish, before falling to St. James Academy in the regional round. Dixon is also a member of the track team where he helped set a new school record in the 4x100 relay. 

JAMES FEISER, LIBERAL

A 6-foot-2, 185-pound receiver, Fieser is one of the top skill players in the Western Athletic Conference. He was honorable mention All-5A and a first-team all-league a year ago when he caught 33 passes for 783 and nine touchdowns, helping Liberal go 7-3. Fieser enters his senior season with 1,351 receiving yards and 14 TDs. He is also a basketball standout for the Redskins.

JULIAN GALLEGOS, EISENHOWER

While record-setting receiver Carter Pabst got a lot of Eisenhower’s statistical attention last season, Gallegos put together his own big season on the defensive side of the ball. The junior linebacker recorded a school-record 129 tackles – 72 solo stops and 57 assists – to help the Tigers post a 9-3 record and reach the Class 5A semifinals. Gallegos, a second-team All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail II selection, is one of seven returning defensive starters for Eisenhower this season.

TANNER GEIST, HAYS

Geist delivered a breakout season on the defensive line for the state runner-up Indians last year. He logged 70 tackles, 15 tackles for loss and nine sacks as a sophomore. The powerful 6-foot-2, 260-pounder is an all-state caliber player who will again anchor the Indians’ D-line. Geist was a first-team All-Western Athletic Conference selection in 2024.

HUNTER HIGGINS, MAIZE SOUTH

Higgins, a 6-foot-5, 255-pound senior, begins his fourth season as a starter for the Mavericks with a University of Kansas commitment in hand. A defensive end and tight end, Higgins earned his accolades on defense last season, recording 63 tackles – 10 for loss – and 13 sacks as a first-team All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail I selection. For his career, Higgins has 195 tackles – 20 for loss – with six forced fumbles. He was a second-team all-league selection on the defensive line as a sophomore, and has helped the Mavericks post a 14-7 record over the last two seasons.

ROBERT HUNTER, HUTCHINSON

Hunter, a senior quarterback and defensive back, is back at Hutchinson after spending the 2024 season at Wichita East, where he directed the Blue Aces to a 7-4 record and a thrilling playoff victory over Dodge City. A dual-threat player, Hunter passed for 1,605 yards and 18 touchdowns a year ago while running for 409 yards and 5 scores. He earned All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail I honorable mention as the Salthawks’ quarterback two seasons ago. After receiving All-Class 6A and All-Greater Wichita Athletic League honorable mention last fall, Hunter committed to South Dakota State. 

BLAKE JAY, MILL VALLEY

Jay made an impact on both sides of the ball for the Jaguars in 2024 as they finished with a 9-2 record. The Mill Valley wide receiver had eight catches for 234 yards to go along with 215 rushing yards and four touchdowns. At defensive back, Jay finished the season with 43 tackles and an interception as a first-year starter. It was his defense that earned him first-team All-Sunflower League and first-team All-Class 5A recognition.

TRENTON KERN, GREAT BEND

Kern was indispensable on both sides of the ball for the Panthers last year. The linebacker is the reigning Western Athletic Conference defensive player of the year after notching 112 tackles, 3 sacks and 6 tackles for loss. He was also a second-team All-WAC pick on the offensive line and handled punting duties for the Panthers early in the season. Kern was a first-team All-5A selection on defense. He’ll lead a linebacker corps that also includes his brother Kale, and Jaxon Wondra. The Panthers return nine starters on defense off last year’s squad that went 9-1 but lost in the second round of the playoffs to eventual runner-up Hays. 

NOAH KOBUSZEWSKI, SEAMAN

Kobuszewski’s size – 6-4, 240 – not only makes him a coveted tight end recruit, but also a big target in what’s been a lethal Seaman passing game the past two seasons. Overshadowed a bit the past two seasons by All-5A receivers Callen Barta and Bryer Finley, Kobuszewski has been a strong complement. His 38 catches last year ranked second to Finley, as did his 325 yards. The numbers were down slightly from a breakout sophomore season where he caught 45 passes for 482 yards. With Finley gone, Kobuszewski will be a reliable weapon for incoming quarterback Cale Ketter and could get more looks in the red zone after only having 3 touchdown catches the past two seasons combined.

BRAXTON KOLLER, GODDARD

After back-to-back 6-3 seasons, Goddard coach Tommy Beason indicated the Lions will transition from a run-heavy, three-back look to a spread-option offense this fall. In Koller, one of seven returning starters, they have a returning unanimous All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail II first-team lineman to build around. The 5-foot-11, 260-pound Koller helped pave the way for a Goddard rushing attack that averaged nearly 260 yards per game last season. Two of the statistical leaders from that unit, quarterback Brock Sullivan and running back Erik Olivas, are back to run behind Koller and Co.

HOLDEN LIND, HAYS

After missing his sophomore season because of injury, Lind emerged as Hays’ top offensive playmaker last year, rushing for over 1,600 yards and 11 touchdowns. He was also an effective receiving threat out of the backfield, catching 7 TDs on the season including one in Hays’ loss to Aquinas in the state title game. Lind, a 5-foot-8, 175-pounder, will look to further establish himself as one of the state’s best running backs in his senior season. He earned first-team All-Western Athletic Conference and honorable mention All-5A honors in 2024.

NATE MARTIN, BASEHOR-LINWOOD

Martin has been a fixture in the Bobcat lineup for the last several seasons as he is a four-year starter and will be the team’s only two-way player this season. At defensive back, Martin has been among the tackling and interceptions leaders on the team in each of his previous three seasons and has three kick returns for touchdowns. Last season, Martin had 54 tackles, two interceptions, a blocked punt and a kick return for a score. He earned first team all-league defensive back honors in 2024. This season, Martin will also be heavily involved with the offense as a wide receiver. 

DY’VAIR MCCRAY, LEAVENWORTH

McCray was the backbone of the Leavenworth defense in 2024 as the strong safety had his best season to date. McCray, who is a 3-year starter for the Pioneers, finished the season with 53 tackles, three interceptions and one touchdown. He also made himself known on offense as well as having 19 catches for 344 yards and six touchdowns at wide receiver. McCray didn’t stop there as he also ran back three touchdowns on special teams. He earned first-team All-United Kansas Conference honors as a defensive back and second-team returner as Leavenworth finished the season with a 6-4 record. 

DAXTON MINTON, GREAT BEND

Minton is back to direct a dynamic Panther offense. The three-year starter is a dual threat, throwing for 1,306 yards with 17 touchdowns and rushing for 412 yards and 5 TDs as a junior. Minton threw for a season-high 237 yards against Buhler and threw 5 TDs in that game, all to Notre Dame commit Ian Premer. He finished the season with a 65% completion rate and just 5 interceptions on the season. Minton earned first-team All-Western Athletic Conference honors and was honorable mention All-5A. The Panthers enter the season ranked No. 3 in 5A by KSHSAA Covered.

G’HONI MONTGOMERY, HIGHLAND PARK

After losing playmaker Jamon Wilson off last year’s 6-3 team, Highland Park has touches to go around this year after Wilson led the Scots in both rushing and receiving as coach Jermaine Monroe looked to get the Pittsburg State signee the ball in space. A bulk of those could go Montgomery’s way as he served as a strong complement to Wilson in the running game. Montgomery already had a team-high 91 carries last year and finished with 737 yards and 9 touchdowns, sharing the TD rushing lead with Wilson and finishing just 27 yards off his team-high 764. Montgomery will team with returning quarterback Dontrail Fox, who threw for 1,175 yards and 12 touchdowns, to give the Scots two strong weapons and Montgomery could be featured more in the passing game this year after catching just four passes last year. He was a second-team All-Meadowlark Conference selection.

COOPER OHNMACHT, GREAT BEND

Ohnmacht’s versatility made him an X-factor for the Panthers’ offense last year as a sophomore. He caught 35 passes for 466 yards and 6 touchdowns, also proving to be an effective gadget guy with four passing TDs. Ohnmacht, who already holds offers from Kansas State and Iowa State, is also a starting safety who logged 31 tackles last year. He was a first-team All-Western Athletic Conference pick as an athlete and was honorable mention All-5A. Ohnmacht captured his second straight Class 5A triple jump title last spring.

BRAYDEN PAPPAS, EISENHOWER

Part of Eisenhower’s success formula the past two seasons involved having a perfect complement to the quarterback-receiver combo of Derek Morgan and Carter Pabst. In 2023, it was Lucas Dickman who ran for 1,847 yards and 16 touchdowns. Last year, it was Pappas who supplied many of the tough yards, running for 1,218 yards and 7 touchdowns to earn second-team All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail II honors. With Morgan off to Lehigh and Pabst off to Washington State, Pappas figures to have a central role in the Tigers’ offense after producing seven 100-yard games on 202 carries in a 9-3 season in 2024. 

TYREN PARKER, SHAWNEE HEIGHTS

Shawnee Heights boasted one of the state’s top passing attacks and Parker was a huge part of it, moving into a starting receiver role after starting in the defensive secondary as a sophomore. After having only 10 catches for 238 yards as a sophomore, Parker exploded last year, hauling in 50 passes for 946 yards and 11 touchdowns, his yardage total a school record. He was one of two T-Bird receivers with at least 50 catches as fellow returner AJ Gallegos had 51 catches for 842 yards and 10 TDs. With quarterback Aiden Scott (3,103 yards, 32 TDs) also back, Heights will once again have one of, if not the, best passing games in 5A. Parker, a University of Kansas commit, remained a starter in the secondary last year and had 48 tackles and 2 interceptions. He also returns kicks and earned All-United Kansas Conference honors on offense and defense, including first-team honors at receiver.

DE'MARUS PARTEE, PITTSBURG

Partee was the anchor of the Purple Dragons’ defense last season as he caused havoc on opposing offenses. The Pittsburg linebacker, who is a 3-year starter, had a big junior year as he tallied 66 tackles to go along with 34 solo stops. Partee finished with 20 tackles for a loss and eight sacks, while also forcing three fumbles and recording a touchdown. Those numbers helped him earn first-team all-state honors as he will lead a Dragon team that will try to improve on their 7-3 record from a season ago. 

PARKER PINAMONTI, PITTSBURG

Pinamonti was a big reason for the Purple Dragons’ success in 2024. The Pittsburg lineman made an impact on both sides of the ball, especially on the defensive side. Pinamonti finished with 52 tackles to go along with six sacks, 18 tackles for loss and two fumble recoveries. He will be a two-way starter for a Pittsburg team that finished with a 7-3 record last season and ended in the state playoffs with a loss to eventual state champion, St. Thomas Aquinas. Pinamonti earned honorable mention all-state honors. Great Bend's Ian Premer 

IAN PREMER, GREAT BEND

Arguably the top athlete in the state, Premer will look to help Great Bend contend for a Class 5A title in his final season before heading off to South Bend next year as a Notre Dame commit. He committed to the Fighting Irish last June after being ranked as one of the top tight end prospects in the nation. The 6-foot-6, 230-pound Premer headlines an experienced receiving corps for the Panthers. He caught 29 passes for 521 yards and 8 touchdowns last season, with five of his TDs coming in one game against Buhler. The defensive attention devoted to Premer helped create opportunities for the Panthers’ other key playmakers during their 9-1 season. Premer was named to the All-5A first team and the Western Athletic Conference offensive player of the year. The three-sport star earned All-StateTop basketball honors as a junior.

REGGIE REECE, MILL VALLEY

With the help of his offensive line, including K-State commit Larmarcus Barber, Reece ran his way to a successful junior season for the Jaguars. The Mill Valley running back tallied 1,948 yards on 233 carries and had 25 touchdowns on the year. He ended the season one yard shy of the school’s single season rushing record. Reece also quickly became one of the top running backs in the state as he earned first team All-Sunflower League and Second 11 All-State honors. He will be a big focus for opposing defenses as Reece tries to get the Jaguars back to the state title game after falling to St. Thomas Aquinas in the sectional round. 

AIDEN SCOTT, SHAWNEE HEIGHTS

Scott completed 190 of 317 pass attempts for 3,103 yards and 32 touchdowns while getting picked off just six times. His season including a school-record 593-yard game, 7-touchdown game against De Soto, one of several school records he broke last year. Scott also set school records for completions in a game (29) and season (190), attempts in a season (317), yards in a season (3,103), passing TDs in a season (32) and career (37). Scott returns his top-three receivers from a year ago, including University of Kansas signee Tyren Parker and AJ Gallegos, each of whom had at least 50 catches, 900 yards and 10 TDs last year. Scott has committed to Washburn and will look to turn the statistical success into win-loss success after Heights went just 2-7 last year.

KADEN SNYDER, SALINA CENTRAL

The 6-foot-5, 292-pound Snyder returns as part of big group up front for the Mustangs who’ll pave the way for senior running back Cooper Reves, an 1,141-yard rusher last season. Snyder is complemented by 290-pound junior Warrick VanBlaricon and a pair of 250-pound seniors in Saijon Mills and Noah Peck. Snyder, a first-team All-Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail II selection last season and a second-team pick two years ago, will try to help Central improve on a 4-5 record. In January, Snyder committed to play at Kansas

SAVION STONE, KC WASHINGTON

Stone put together a historic season for the Wildcat program in 2024 as he helped guide Washington to a 6-3 record, which was its best mark since 2019. The dual-threat quarterback also provided problems for opposing defenses as he threw and rushed for more than 1,000 yards. Stone is believed to be the first quarterback in Kansas City Kansas Public School history to accomplish such a feat. He completed 86 of 150 passes for 1,250 yards and 12 touchdowns, while he rushed for 1,039 yards and 10 more scores. He earned first team All-Meadowlark Conference honors and was an honorable mention all-state selection. 

COLIN ZIMBELMAN, BASEHOR-LINWOOD

Zimbelman is entering his third season as the Bobcats’ starting kicker after a successful sophomore campaign. He converted 42 off 44 extra point tries and converted 5 of 8 field goals attempts to go along with 14 touchbacks. After earning honorable mention all-league as a freshman, Zimbelman was recognized with first team All-United Kansas Conference honors last season and also was first-team All-Class 5A.