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 2020 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.
J.J. McCarthy of
IMG Academy (Bradenton) is the 2020 MaxPreps Florida High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-3, 190-pound senior quarterback threw for 1,440 yards and 16 touchdowns (no interceptions) to help the Ascenders go 8-0 this season.
Ranked No. 1 nationally by MaxPreps, IMG Academy steamrolled a challenging schedule, winning every game by at least 27 points. In one of the biggest games of the season Oct. 10 against Duncanville (Texas), McCarthy completed 19 of 28 pass attempts for 256 yards and three scores as the Florida power prevailed 41-14.
McCarthy opened the season in early September by going 23 of 39 for 341 yards and five scores in a win over Venice.
A native of Illinois, McCarthy is headed to Michigan next year. He fielded offers from 33 other programs, including Miami, Ohio State and USC among others.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team, which will be released Jan. 29.
J.J. McCarthy looks downfield during an October win over Life Christian.
Photo by Mike Janes
