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.
senior defensive end
Kenyatta Jackson Jr. is the 2021 MaxPreps Florida High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-5, 235-pound defensive end led the Lions to a 12-1 and Florida High School Athletic Association 3A state championship.
Jackson, a Ohio State signee, had 72 tackles and 17 sacks in 11 games in 2021, including seven tackles and two sacks in the state finals, a 21-0 win over Berkeley Prep.
Ranked the seventh best senior defensive end in the country by
247Sports, Jackson finished with 134 tackles and 31 sacks in a three-year career. All three years the Lions reached the state finals, winning also in 2019. They've won six state crowns and made the finals six consecutive years.
Jackson had 34 offers, but picked the Buckeyes over other finalists Alabama and Oklahoma.
Described by 247Sports recruiting analyst Andrew Ivins as a "long-limbed pass rusher who can get after the quarterback. Built almost like an action figure with his thick neck, broad shoulders and round biceps." Blessed with great bloodlines, two of Jackson's uncles, Kantroy and Rudy Barber Jr. played in the NFL, as did his grandfather Rudy Barber.
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.
Kenyatta Jackson Jr., Chaminade-Madonna
Photo by Annette Wilkerson
