Future Utah Ute ran for over 1,500 yards while leading Lake Oswego to first state title since 2018.
Each year since 2006, MaxPreps has recognized outstanding performers in high school football. America's source for high school sports continues the tradition to close out the 2025 season by naming the top player in each state. Selections are based on team success and individual excellence in addition to local and state accolades.
LaMarcus Bell of
Lake Oswego is the 2025 MaxPreps Oregon High School Football Player of the Year. The 5-foot-11, 190-pound senior running back led the Lakers to a 12-1 record and 6A state title.
For the season, Bell tallied 155 carries for 1,533 yards and 25 touchdowns. He battled through injuries but still averaged 139.4 yards rushing per game and 9.9 yards per carry.
MaxPreps Oregon Player of the Year LaMarcus Bell celebrates one of three touchdowns he scored in a semifinal victory over Nelson. (PHOTO: Troy Tsuma)
In a 35-6 win over Central Catholic (Portland) in the state championship game, Bell had 18 carries for 126 yards and a touchdown to help the Lakers win their first state title since 2018.
In quarterfinal and semifinal wins over Grants Pass and Nelson (Happy Valley), respectively, Bell rushed for 318 yards and eight touchdowns.
Bell was named a MaxPreps Junior All-American last season after rushing for 2,004 yards and 29 touchdowns while leading Lake Oswego to the state championship game.
After fielding offers from nearly 20 Division I programs, Bell signed with Utah earlier this week.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Oregon Players of the Year
2021 — Dom Montiel, QB, Marshfield (Coos Bay)
2022 — Sam Leavitt, QB, West Linn
2023 — Cru Newman, QB, Central Catholic (Portland)
2024 — Mark Wiepert, QB, Wilsonville
