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 2023 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.
Preston Ries of
Monticello is the 2023 MaxPreps Iowa High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound senior quarterback/linebacker led the Panthers to an 11-2 record and state semifinals berth for the first time since 1977.
Ries put up monster numbers on both sides of the ball. He led the state in total offense (4,485 yards) and touchdowns (57). Defensively, he recorded 97 tackles and 27.5 tackles for loss.
Named the Class 2A Player of the Year by the Iowa Print Sports Writers Association, Ries broke the state record for career total offense with 12,984 yards.
In a 34-28 state quarterfinal win against Mediapolis, Ries completed 14 of 21 pass attempts for 297 yards and a score while running 37 times for 279 yards and four more scores. He also logged 11 tackles, three tackles for loss and a sack, helping Monticello reach the semifinals for the first time in 46 years.
Ries, who is expected to play linebacker at the next level, committed to Iowa over offers from Iowa State and Nebraska in May 2022.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Iowa Players of the Year
2020 — Thomas Fidone II, TE, Lewis Central (Council Bluffs)
2021 — Xavier Nwankpa, S, Southeast Polk (Pleasant Hill)
2022 — Kadyn Proctor, OL, Southeast Polk (Pleasant Hill)
