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.
Daniel Amaro of
Las Cruces is the 2025 MaxPreps New Mexico High School Football Player of the Year. The 5-foot-9, 185-pound senior running back led the Bulldawgs to a 12-1 record and 6A state runner-up finish.
For the season, Amaro ran for 1,931 yards and 42 touchdowns, adding 23 receptions for 418 yards and three more scores. His efforts helped Las Cruces achieve and undefeated regular season and reach the 12-win plateau for the first time since 2008.
In a 44-7 win over La Cueva (Albuquerque) in the state semifinals, Amaro ran 19 times for 234 yards and three touchdowns. The win clinched a spot in the school's first state championship game since 2016.
Amaro ran for a season-high 246 yards and four TDs on just 15 carries in a 53-28 win over Carlsbad in October.
During the regular season meeting against Cleveland (Rio Rancho), Amaro led the Bulldawgs to a 38-34 win – their first over the Storm since 2016 – with 179 yards and two touchdowns.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps New Mexico Players of the Year
2021 — Evan Wysong, QB, Cleveland (Rio Rancho)
2022 — Evan Wysong, QB, Cleveland
2023 — Cameron Dyer, QB, La Cueva (Albuquerque)
2024 — Cameron Dyer, QB, La Cueva
