Alabama QB Signee Keelon Russell, Auburn RB Signee Alvin Henderson, and 2026 No. 1 OT Jackson Cantwell Named Finalists for Gatorade National Player of the Year
In a year where high school football has been nothing short of spectacular, three standout athletes have earned well-deserved recognition as finalists for the prestigious Gatorade National Player of the Year award. Alabama quarterback signee Keelon Russell, Auburn running back signee Alvin Henderson, and the top 2026 recruit, offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell, have all been named finalists for this coveted honor. Their extraordinary performances throughout their high school careers have captured the attention of college programs and scouts nationwide, and their inclusion as finalists for this award speaks to their unparalleled talent and potential.
Keelon Russell, a dynamic dual-threat quarterback from Alabama, has been a force to be reckoned with during his high school career. The 6â2â, 210-pound quarterback has been widely recognized for his strong arm, accuracy, and ability to make plays with his legs.
Russellâs senior season was nothing short of spectacular, as he led his team to a state championship and put up staggering numbers in the process. He threw for over 3,500 yards and 40 touchdowns while rushing for another 1,000 yards and 15 scores. Russellâs ability to read defenses, extend plays, and make big throws in clutch moments has solidified him as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation, earning him the respect of his peers, coaches, and recruiting experts alike.
As a signee for Alabama, Russell will join one of the most storied programs in college football, where his combination of arm strength and mobility makes him a perfect fit for the system head coach Nick Saban has built. With his poise and leadership, Russell is expected to make an immediate impact on the collegiate level, and his potential to be a future star in the SEC is undeniable.
Alvin Henderson, a powerhouse running back out of Alabama, has been just as impressive as his counterpart Keelon Russell. The 5â11â, 215-pound Henderson has displayed explosive speed, vision, and strength throughout his high school career.
This season, Henderson was a dominant force on the field, rushing for over 2,500 yards and 30 touchdowns. His combination of breakaway speed and physicality allows him to both run between the tackles and break long runs to the outside. Henderson has also proven to be a capable pass catcher out of the backfield, adding another dimension to his already impressive skill set.
As an Auburn signee, Henderson is poised to be a cornerstone of the Tigersâ offense in the coming years. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game, including special teams and pass protection, makes him one of the most well-rounded running backs in recent memory. Auburn fans have plenty to be excited about as Henderson looks to continue his ascent to stardom in the SEC.
W5hile Russell and Henderson have been the stars of the 2024 recruiting class, Jackson Cantwellâs inclusion as a finalist for the Gatorade National Player of the Year award speaks to his immense talent as a rising sophomore. Cantwell, a 6â7â, 320-pound offensive tackle from Georgia, has already established himself as the top-ranked player in the 2026 class.
Despite being only in the 10th grade, Cantwell has already showcased the size, athleticism, and technique that make him one of the most dominant players at his position in the country. His strength, combined with his ability to move defenders off the ball, has made him a standout on both the offensive and defensive lines
Cantwellâs potential is off the charts, and his ability to protect quarterbacks and create lanes for running backs at such a young age has garnered attention from some of the top college programs in the country. His inclusion as a finalist for the Gatorade National Player of the Year highlights his dominance at such an early stage in his career and his ability to potentially redefine the offensive tackle position.
The Gatorade National Player of the Year award is one of the most prestigious individual honors a high school football player can receive. It recognizes the top athlete in the country, who not only excels on the field but also demonstrates exemplary character and leadership in the classroom and in their community.
The finalists for this yearâs awardâKeelon Russell, Alvin Henderson, and Jackson Cantwellâare all outstanding athletes who have proven themselves as game-changers throughout their high school careers. Their inclusion as finalists for this prestigious honor is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence.
As each of these players prepares to take the next step in their football careers, the future looks incredibly bright. Keelon Russell, with his dual-threat ability, will look to lead Alabamaâs offense into a new era. Alvin Hendersonâs physicality and explosiveness will make him a key figure for Auburn in the SEC. Meanwhile, Jackson Cantwell, as a young rising star, will continue to develop and dominate on the offensive line as one of the top recruits in the nation for years to come.
Regardless of who ultimately takes home the Gatorade National Player of the Year award, all three of these players have proven they are among the best high school athletes in the country, and their future in college footballâand beyondâlooks incredibly promising.