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 2021 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.
Walter Nolen of
Powell (Tenn.) is the 2021 MaxPreps Tennessee High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-5, 310-pound defensive lineman helped the Panthers go 13-2 and capture the Class 5A state championship.
The senior made six solo tackles and was in on seven stops in the 42-34 win over Page in the title game. The five-star Texas A&M commit, punished the Patriots with four tackles for losses, two sacks and a quarterback hurry. Nolen also scored on a three-yard run in the first quarter to put the Panthers up 21-0.
The top prospect in the state of Tennessee, stepped up larger than his 310-pound frame in the playoffs. Nolen abused Powell's opponents with 28 solo tackles, 31 total tackles, 15 tackles for losses, seven sacks, nine quarterback hurries, a pass defended and a couple of forced fumbles over the five games.
For the year, Matt Lowe's star player made 73 solo tackles and was in on 83 total stops. He was also credited with 33 tackles for losses, 17 sacks, 27 quarterback hurries, three passes defended, six forced fumbles and a fumble recovery. Ranked the No. 2 overall prospect nationally in 2022 by 247Sports.com, Nolen even ran the ball eight times throughout the year for 19 yards and six touchdowns.
Ohio State commit Dallan Hayden was the 2020 MaxPreps Tennessee Football Player of the Year after helping Christian Brothers (Memphis) to an 8-5 record and the playoffs.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion on the MaxPreps All-America Team, which will be released in early January.
Walter Nolen, Powell
Photo by Matthew Winningham
