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 2024 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.
Jett Washington of
Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas) is the 2024 MaxPreps Nevada High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-5, 200-pound junior safety helped the Gaels to an 11-1 record and fourth consecutive Class 5A Division I state championship.
Washington finished with 37 tackles, five interceptions, one forced fumble and a 71-yard fumble return for a score. In a 69-7 win over Arbor View (Las Vegas) in the state championship game, he had three tackles and an interception.
Jett Washington separates a receiver from the ball with a big hit during an August win over Kahuku of Hawaii. (Photo: Heston Quan)
In a loss to national No. 1 Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.) in September, Washington posted a season-high 10 tackles.
Thanks in part to Washington's efforts, the Bishop Gorman defense allowed less than 10 points per game while posting five shutouts. The Gaels extended their win streak to 36 consecutive games against in-state opponents, going 8-0 this fall and outscoring Silver State foes 441-24.
Regarded as the No. 1 safety and No. 16 overall prospect in the Class of 2026 by
247Sports, Washington has landed over 20 FBS offers led by Alabama, Georgia, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oregon and Texas.
Washington is the nephew of Kobe Bryant and also a standout basketball player. As a sophomore he scored 33 points in a game on his uncle's former home floor at Crypto.com Arena.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Nevada Players of the Year
2021 — Zachariah Branch, WR, Bishop Gorman
2022 — Micah Alejado, QB, Bishop Gorman
2023 — Micah Alejado, QB, Bishop Gorman
