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 2021 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.
Colson Coon of
Sheridan is the 2021 MaxPreps Wyoming High School Football Player of the Year. The 5-foot-10, 180-pound junior running back/linebacker helped the Broncs go 11-1 and capture the state's Class 4A state title.
For the season, Coon ran for 1,647 yards and 22 touchdowns to lead all rushers in Class 4A.
Coon cranked things up in the postseason. He rushed for 256 yards and four touchdowns in a semifinal win over Natrona County, then followed with 230 yards and four more scores In Sheridan's 45-27 win over Rock Springs in the state championship game.
Sheridan has won five of the last seven state crowns in Class 4A and seven in the 2000s. Going all the way back to 1921, the Broncs lead the state with 28 titles.
Coon's older brothers Evan and Garrett also won state championships at Sheridan. In addition to football, Colson is also a standout in soccer and wrestling.
Graedyn Buell of East (Cheyenne) was the 2020 MaxPreps Wyoming Player of the Year after throwing for 3,065 yards and 38 touchdowns in leading the Thunderbirds to an 11-1 record and Class 4A state title
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team, which will be released in early January.