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.
Gideon Davidson of
Liberty Christian (Lynchburg) is the 2024 MaxPreps Virginia High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot, 195-pound senior running back led the Bulldogs to a second consecutive 14-0 season and Class 3 state title.
For the season, Davidson ran 266 times
for 2,346 yards and 37 touchdowns. He added 14 receptions for 174 yards
and four more scores.
Davidson also contributed defensively and on special teams, recording 75 tackles, two
interceptions and two kickoff returns for scores.
In a 42-6 win over Kettle Run (Nokesville) in the state championship game, Davidson capped his career with 24 carries for 181 yards and three touchdowns while adding a 14-yard touchdown reception.
Davidson posted four 200-yard rushing games, including a season-high 289 in a 35-21 win over Salem in the season-opener. In five playoff games, he rushed for 846 yards and 12 touchdowns to go with nine receptions for 126 yards and four more scores.
Last season, Davidson was named the MaxPreps National Junior of the Year after rushing for 2,752 yards and 43 touchdowns last season. His 7,735 career rushing yards and 122 touchdown runs are both second in state history.
Regarded as the No. 3 senior running back prospect in the country and No. 55 player overall by 247Sports, Davidson signed with Clemson earlier this month after fielding nearly 20 FBS offers.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Virginia Players of the Year
2021 — Zach Rice, OL, Liberty Christian
2022 — Tristan Evans, QB, Freedom (Woodbridge)
2023 — Gideon Davidson, RB, Liberty Christian
