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.
William Watson is the 2021 MaxPreps Massachusetts High School Football Player of the Year.
The 6-foot, 180-pound junior dual-threat quarterback led the Golden Eagles of
Central (Springfield) (10-2) to a third straight state championship with a 22-15 win over Central Catholic for the Division 1 crown at Gillette Stadium.
Watson, who has eight college offers according to
247Sports, including Michigan, Oregon and Tennessee, accounted for almost 200 yards and two touchdowns to push his season-long numbers over 10 games to 2,213 passing yards and 23 touchdowns. He also finished with 599 rushing yards and eight touchdowns.
As a true freshman, Watson not only started but threw for 2,378 yards and 31 touchdowns while rushing for 334 yards and seven more scores, leading the Golden Eagles to a Division 3 state crown. His junior season, like everyone else in the state, was almost entirely wiped out by COVID-19. The Golden Eagles played just three games, all victories.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for
inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team, which will be released in
early January.
William Watson has already lead the Golden Eagles to two state championships.
Photo by Susan Shaye
