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.
Corey Sadler Jr. of
Cass Tech (Detroit) is the 2024 MaxPreps Michigan High School Football Player of the Year. The 5-foot-11, 190-pound junior helped the Technicians to a 12-2 record and Division 1 state title, the school's first since 2016.
Sadler lined up everywhere offensively but shined at wide receiver, where he hauled in 51 receptions for 1,043
yards and 14 touchdowns. He completed all 11 passes he attempted for 180 yards and four scores to go with 15 carries for 105 yards and five touchdowns.
Defensively, Sadler had 55 tackles, four interceptions and one sack. He was also dynamic on special teams with two kickoff return touchdowns and one punt return for a score.
Corey Sadler Jr. did it all for Cass Tech, helping the Technicians win 10 in a row en route to the Division 1 state championship. (File photo: Scott Hasse)
In a 42-20 win over Hudsonville in the Division 1 state championship game, Sadler caught six balls for 47 yards and two touchdowns. He added three tackles on defense.
After a 2-2 start, the Technicians reeled off 10 straight wins to close out the season. Sadler was one of the leaders on offense, defense and special teams. During the win streak Cass Tech outscored its opponents 369-75.
Sadler is the top-rated player in Michigan from the Class of 2026 according to
247Sports and a top 100 prospect nationally. He has landed over 30 FBS offers including Alabama, Michigan, Miami, Ohio State, Oregon, Penn State and Tennessee.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Michigan Players of the Year
2020 — Donovan Edwards, RB, West Bloomfield
2021 — Dante Moore, QB, King (Detroit)
2022 — Bryce Underwood, QB, Belleville
2023 — Isaiah Marshall, QB, Southfield A&T (Southfield)
