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.
Daniel Thomas of
Bell County (Pineville) is the 2023 MaxPreps Kentucky High School Football Player of the Year. The 5-foot-9, 175-pound senior running back led the Bobcats to a 13-2 record and Class 3A state runner-up finish.
Thomas led the nation in rushing this fall with state records of 3,817 yards and 54 touchdowns. He eclipsed the 100-yard mark in all 15 games and went for 200 or more 12 times. He also played linebacker, racking up 94 tackles.
In a 48-42 win over Whitley County (Williamsburg) in September, Thomas ran 32 times for a season-high 387 yards and five touchdowns – one of four 300-yard performances on the season.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Kentucky Players of the Year
2020 — Jager Burton, OL, Frederick Douglass (Lexington)
2021 — Jack Sivori, QB, St. Xavier (Louisville)
2022 — Travis Egan, QB, Bullitt East (Mt. Washington)
