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.
Malachi Toney of
American Heritage (Plantation) is the 2024 MaxPreps Florida High School Football Player of the Year. The 5-foot-10, 185-pound senior wide receiver led the Patriots to a 12-2 record and Class 4A state championship, the school's first since 2020.
Toney was putting together a special season as a pass-catcher but in the second round of the playoffs, American Heritage's five-star quarterback
Dia Bell suffered a leg injury against Dillard (Fort Lauderdale). Toney filled in at quarterback and helped erase a 14-0 deficit and lead the Patriots to a 24-14 win.
Malachi Toney looks downfield during American Heritage's semifinal win over St. Augustine. (Photo: Bill Kierl)
He started the next three games at quarterback and led American Heritage to wins over Norland (Miami), St. Augustine and Jones (Orlando).
In a 35-14 win over Norland he completed 9 of 13 passes for 122 yards and three touchdowns to clinch a spot in the semifinals. He added six carries for 103 yards and another score.
Against St. Augustine in a 38-28 semifinal win, Toney completed 12 of 15 passes for 200 yards and three touchdowns. He added 14 carries for 73 yards and another score.
Toney helped the Patriots win their first state title in four years by completing 15 of 17 passes for 188 yards and a score in a 40-31 win over Jones (Orlando) in the championship game. He completed his first 15 attempts and added a rushing touchdown.
In three games starting under center, Toney completed 80 percent of his passes and threw for 510 yards and seven touchdowns.
Before he stepped in at quarterback, Toney showed why he is one of the top-rated wide receivers in the country according to
247Sports, hauling in 58 catches for 1,008 yards and 12 touchdowns. He added 34 carries for 224 yards and three more scores.
Toney reclassified to the Class of 2025 in September and signed with Miami earlier this month.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Florida Players of the Year
2020 — J.J. McCarthy, QB, IMG Academy (Bradenton)
2021 — Kenyatta Jackson, EDGE, Chaminade-Madonna (Hollywood)
2022 — Rueben Bain, EDGE, Miami Central (Miami)
2023 — Jeremiah Smith, WR, Chaminade-Madonna
