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.
Faizon Brandon of
Grimsley (Greensboro) is the 2024 MaxPreps North Carolina High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-4, 205-pound junior quarterback led the Whirlies to a 16-0 record, Class 4A state championship and No. 21 national ranking.
For the season, Brandon threw for 2,814 yards and 35 touchdowns – against just two interceptions – while completing 77.1 percent
of his passes. He
was also dynamic with his legs, rushing for 625 yards and nine
touchdowns.
Regarded by 247Sports as the top prospect in the Class of 2026 nationally, Faizon Brandon looks downfield during the Class 4A state championship game. (Photo: Brad Arrowood)
In a 35-23 win over Rolesville in the state title game, Brandon completed 8 of 10 passes for 182 yards and two touchdowns. He added nine carries for 37 yards and another score in helping the Whirlies capture their second championship in the last five years.
Brandon completed 16 of 18 passes for 258 yards and three touchdowns in a 35-23 win over Weddington (Matthews) in the semifinals, helping Grimsley snap the defending state champ's 19-game win streak.
In 10 games this season, Brandon threw for as many or more touchdown passes than incomplete passes, including the last four.
According to
247Sports, Brandon is the No. 1 prospect in the Class of 2026. He committed to Tennessee in August over more than 20 other FBS offers.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps North Carolina Players of the Year
2021 — Malaki Hamrick, EDGE, Shelby
2022 — Jadyn Davis, QB, Providence Day (Charlotte)
2023 — Jadyn Davis, QB, Providence Day (Charlotte)
