St. Frances Academy defensive back racked up over 150 tackles for one of the best defenses in the country.
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.
For the season, Edwards posted more than 150 tackles and six interceptions for a defense that allowed less than 10 points per game. He returned two of those interceptions for touchdowns.
Jireh Edwards helped St. Frances Academy achieve its highest national ranking in program history this season. (PHOTO: Kim Kravitz)
In a 37-20 win over Corner Canyon (Draper, Utah) earlier this month, Edwards closed out his career by recording a safety in the fourth quarter to give the Panthers a commanding 23-point lead.
Against St. Joseph's Prep (Philadelphia), he recorded two interceptions and made key tackles down the stretch in a 34-26 win.
Edwards was a key part of St. Frances Academy's success over the last three years, helping the Panthers notch wins over teams from eight states and Canada.
Headed to Alabama, Edwards is regarded as a top 50 prospect in the Class of 2026 by 247Sports. Before settling on the Crimson Tide, he fielded offers from nearly 40 FBS programs.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Maryland Players of the Year
2021 — Derrick Moore, EDGE, St. Frances Academy
2022 — Da'Shawn Womack, EDGE, St. Frances Academy
2023 — Aaron Chiles, LB, Good Counsel (Olney)
2024 — Malik Washington, QB, Archbishop Spalding (Severn)
