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 2025 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.
Matt Ludwig of
Billings West (Billings) is the 2025 MaxPreps Montana High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-4, 245-pound senior tight end led the Golden Bears to a 10-2 record and Class AA state runner-up finish.
Ludwig led Billings West in receptions (50), receiving yards (736), receiving touchdowns (10) and rushing touchdowns (7). He also made an impact on defense, posting 32 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, four sacks and 19 quarterback hurries.
In a 20-17 win over Big Sky (Missoula) in the semifinals, Ludwig rushed for a season-high three touchdowns. He scored at least one touchdown in 11 games and had multiple scores in six games this fall.
Ludwig posted season highs in a 38-6 win over Great Falls with 12 receptions for 118 yards and a touchdown. He also found the end zone on the ground in the victory.
Committed to Michigan since May, Ludwig is a four-star recruit and No. 12 tight end in Class of 2026 according to 247Sports.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Montana Players of the Year
2020 — Dylan Rollins, OL, Sentinel (Missoula)
2021 — Tyson Rostad, QB, Hamilton
2022 — Patrick Duchien, QB, Florence-Carlton (Florence)
2023 — Kellen Harrison, QB, Bozeman
2024 — Merek Mihelish, QB, Capital (Helena)
