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 2023 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.
Ryan Williams of
Saraland is the 2023 MaxPreps Alabama High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-1, 170-pound senior wide receiver led the Spartans to a 14-1 record and Class 6A state runner-up finish.
For the season, Williams hauled in 72 receptions for 1,324 yards and 19 touchdowns. He rushed for an additional 261 yards and seven scores while finding the end zone twice on returns.
MaxPreps Alabama Player of the Year Ryan Williams rises for a catch against Spanish Fort, one of six for 138 yards and two touchdowns in the September game. (Photo: Ted Melton)
In five playoff games, Williams had 686 total yards and nine
touchdowns.
Williams had 11 receptions for 232 yards and two touchdowns in a 31-28 loss to Clay-Chalkville (Pinson) in the state title game. He added a rushing score and 85-yard kickoff return touchdown in that contest.
Originally part of the Class of 2025, Williams recently announced he was reclassifying to 2024. The longtime Alabama commit finished his prep career with over 5,000 all-purpose yards and 80 touchdowns.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Alabama Players of the Year
2020 — Ga'Quincy McKinstry, CB, Pinson Valley (Pinson)
2021 — Jeremiah Alexander, LB, Thompson (Alabaster)
2022 — Peter Woods, DL, Thompson (Alabaster)
