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.
Avery Johnson of
Maize is the 2022 MaxPreps Kansas High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-3, 170-pound senior quarterback helped the Eagles go 12-1 and reach the Class 5A state championship game.
Johnson threw for 2,750 yards and 29 touchdowns to just three interceptions while running for another 816 yards and 15 scores on 98 carries. Maize averaged 47.9 points per game and were held under 40 just twice in 13 games.
Committed to Kansas State, Johnson's dual-threat ability was on full display in a 52-51 win over Derby in early October. In that contest, Johnson threw for 379 yards, ran for 152 more and accounted for seven touchdowns.
Johnson chose Kansas State over 23 other FBS offers, including Auburn, Florida State, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Oregon, Washington and Wisconsin.
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 Kansas Players of the Year2020 – Dasan McCullough, LB, Blue Valley North (Overland Park)
2021 – Mikey Pauley, QB, Blue Valley Northwest (Overland Park)
