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 Thomalla of
Millard South (Omaha) is the 2024 MaxPreps Nebraska High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-4, 190-pound junior quarterback helped the Patriots to a 12-1 record and Class A state championship, the school's first in 15 years.
Thomalla broke Class A state records for completions (250), passing yards (3,664) and touchdowns passes (47). He completed 69.6 percent of his attempts and only threw
three interceptions on 359 attempts.
Jett Thomalla helped the Millard South offense score 50 or more points eight times this season. (Photo: Nathanial George)
Millard South snapped Omaha Westside's 32-game win streak with a 27-10 triumph in the state title game. Thomalla completed 20 of 32 passes for 220 yards and three touchdowns.
Thomalla played his best during the postseason, throwing for 1,293 yards and 16 touchdowns in four games. In a 49-14 win over Kearney in the semifinals, he completed 25 of 38 passes for 385 yards and four touchdowns.
In a 56-0 win over Millard West (Omaha) in September, Thomalla threw for a season-high 395 yards and six touchdowns – one of seven 300-yard passing games this fall.
Thomalla led the way for an offense that averaged 50.6 points per game, helping Millard South reach the 12-win plateau for the first time since 2009.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Nebraska Players of the Year
2020 — Avante Dickerson, WR/CB, Omaha Westside (Omaha)
2021 — Dylan Mostek, RB, Bennington
2022 — Zane Flores, QB, Gretna
2023 — Anthony Rezac, QB, Omaha Westside
