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.
Chase Thompson of
Alexandria is the 2024 MaxPreps Minnesota High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-7, 215-pound senior quarterback led the Cardinals to a 10-3 record and Class AAAAA state runner-up finish, the school's first title-game appearance in 30 years.
According to the MSHSL record book, only Liam O'Hagan (3,818) and Chris Meidt (3,643) have thrown for more yards in state history than Thompson, who piled up 3,592. His 38 passing touchdowns were good for fifth-best behind O'Hagan (55), Meidt (41), Joe Mauer (41) and Kevin Newman (39).
In a 33-24 loss to Elk River in the championship game, Thompson completed 18 of 27 passes for 305 yards and three touchdowns.
Thompson had one of his best games in a 42-20 win over Owatonna in the semifinals, throwing for 396 yards and five touchdowns.
Two weeks prior against Moorhead in the third round of the playoffs, Thompson threw for a season-high 409 yards and three scores in a 48-44 win. He connected with Mason Gorghuber for a 99-yard touchdown for the go-ahead score with 7:02 left.
The multi-sport standout signed with Clemson to play basketball earlier this month. He averaged 19.0 points and 9.6 rebounds per game as a junior while leading the Cardinals to the state semifinals.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Minnesota Players of the Year
2020 — Trey Feeney, QB, Moorhead
2021 — Emmett Johnson, RB, Academy of Holy Angels (Richfield)
2022 — Jacob Kilzer, QB, Maple Grove
2023 — Savion Hart, RB, St. Thomas Academy (Mendota Heights)
