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.
Josh Snyder of
Columbine (Littleton) is the 2023 MaxPreps Colorado High School Football Player of the Year. The 5-foot-11, 185-pound senior running back led Rebels to a 14-0 record and Class 5A state title — the school's first since 2011 and sixth overall.
Columbine ended a four-year run as champ for Cherry Creek's (Greenwood Village) with a 28-14 victory in the title game. Snyder led the way with 128 yards rushing and two touchdowns in addition to a 98-yard kickoff return score.
MaxPreps Colorado Player of the Year Josh Snyder celebrates a touchdown in the Class 5A state championship game. (Photo: Theodore A. Stark)
For the season, Snyder ran for 1,711 yards and 25 touchdowns, topping the 100-yard mark in 11 of 12 games. He added 17 receptions for 210 yards and another score. Defensively, he posted 29 tackles and two interceptions.
Against Chatfield (Littleton) in the semifinals, he carried 31 times for a season-high 180 yards and three scores.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Colorado Players of the Year
2020 — Myles Purchase, CB, Cherry Creek (Greenwood Village)
2021 — Gavin Sawchuk, RB, Valor Christian (Highlands Ranch)
2022 — Blake Purchase, EDGE, Cherry Creek (Greenwood Village)
