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 2022 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.
Smith Snowden of
Skyridge (Lehi) is the 2022 MaxPreps Utah High School Football Player of the Year. The 5-foot-10, 175-pound defensive back helped the Falcons go 13-1 and capture the school's first state title.
Skyridge beat high-powered Corner Canyon (Draper) 17-7 in the Class 6A state championship game, a contest where Snowden was rarely challenged due to his coverage skills. He made a key fourth-down tackle late in the fourth quarter to help secure the victory in head coach Jon Lehman's final game on the sideline.
Snowden finished his senior campaign with 30
tackles, six interceptions and was the leader for one of the best
defenses in the state. According to
247Sports, he has received 22 FBS scholarship offers and is regarded as a four-star prospect. BYU, Colorado, Northwestern, Stanford, Utah and Washington State are among the leading contenders for his talents.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team, which will be released January 10.
Past MaxPreps Utah Players of the Year2020 – Jaxson Dart, Corner Canyon (Draper)
2021 – Devin Brown, Corner Canyon (Draper)
Smith Snowden (3) celebrates late in the game during Skyridge's 17-7 win over Corner Canyon in the Class 6A state championship game. (Photo: Dave Argyle)
