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 2022 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.
Michael Rostberg of
Shanley (Fargo) is the 2022 MaxPreps North Dakota High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-3, 205-pound senior quarterback helped the Deacons go 10-2 and capture the Division 11AA state championship. It was the school's 10th state title and first since 2018.
In the state title game, Rostberg completed 20 of 28 passes for 259 yards and four touchdowns in a 48-7 win over
Century (Bismarck). The University of St. Thomas commit added 70 yards rushing and two scores.
In three playoff games Rostberg accounted for 1,130 yards of total offense (946 passing, 184 rushing) and 13 touchdowns. Shanley outscored its three postseason opponents 128-48.
For the season, Rostberg threw for 2,969 yards and 34 touchdowns while adding 373 yards on the ground and nine scores. He led the way for one of the best offensive units in the state, averaging 37.2 points per game and scoring 40 points or more in seven games.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team, which will be released January 10.
Past MaxPreps State Players of the Year2020 – Andrew Leingang, OL, Century
2021 – Trey Heinrich, RB/LB, Kindred
