2024 AYF Nationals Top Performers Vol.2

Name: Shavaha Gates

Position: ATH

Team: Frankford Chargers (PA) 8u

Skinny:

The Frankford Chargers 8U team’s journey to the 2024 AYF Youth National Championship in Naples, Florida, was a story of resilience and grit, embodying the toughness of their Philadelphia roots. Their season started rocky, but by the time they hit the national stage, they looked like a team reborn—and at the heart of their transformation was their team MVP, Shavaha Gates.

Gates, an 8-year-old phenom, played both quarterback and linebacker/defensive lineman, showcasing an all-around game that propelled the Chargers to the top. As a quarterback, Gates is a powerhouse. His size and physicality make him a nightmare to bring down on the run, with defenders often bouncing off him or shying away from contact. But his game isn’t one-dimensional; Gates has a deceptively strong arm, and his ability to execute play-action passes keeps defenses on their toes.

Defensively, Gates is equally impactful. His offensive IQ translates seamlessly to his linebacker and defensive line roles, as he displays sharp play recognition and impeccable timing when shooting gaps. His knack for making big plays in the backfield and his relentless energy make him the ultimate two-way player.

In their pivotal third-round matchup against the Ft. Lauderdale Hurricanes, Gates delivered a performance for the ages. On offense, he bulldozed through defenders, breaking tackles and keeping the Chargers’ chains moving. On defense, he came up clutch with multiple stops, including tackles for loss that stifled the Hurricanes’ momentum. Gates’ dominance on both sides of the ball helped seal the game and ultimately carried the Chargers to the 2024 AYF 8U National Championship.

Sporting the iconic #15, reminiscent of Tim Tebow’s days at the University of Florida, Gates embodies a similar leadership style. He’s the Chargers’ emotional and physical engine, rallying his teammates and leading by example. With his dual-threat capabilities, high football IQ, and sheer willpower, Shavaha Gates is a name to remember—not just in youth football but as a rising star to watch in the years to come.

Defensive Lineman

• Key Traits: Power running, play-action passing, play recognition, defensive explosiveness

• Signature Moment: Dominant performance against Ft. Lauderdale Hurricanes in the AYF Nationals 8U third-round game

The Frankford Chargers’ journey reflects the essence of Philadelphia toughness, and Shavaha Gates stands as the perfect embodiment of their championship mentality.

Name: Raiden Johnson

Position: LB

Team: Vegas Strong

Skinny:

Raiden Johnson has long been a name to watch in youth football, and his performance at the 2024 AYF National Championship solidified why he’s widely regarded as one of the best linebackers in the country for his age. Competing with Vegas Strong on 14U, Raiden is no stranger to playing up against older competition, having done so last season. However, this year he proved to be a dominant force, making him a standout among his peers.

Dominant Playstyle

Johnson is the epitome of a throwback middle linebacker. With his imposing 6’1” (approaching 6’2”) frame, he has the size, speed, and physicality that coaches covet. Raiden thrives attacking downhill against the run, consistently meeting ball carriers in the backfield or delivering punishing hits that make opposing offenses think twice about running his way. One of the most memorable plays from the championship came against the Maryland Heat, where Raiden delivered a devastating hit on a QB draw, showcasing his power and relentless pursuit.

His speed allows him to cover sideline-to-sideline, tracking down runners and making key stops. He also possesses an advanced ability to diagnose plays, reacting quickly and decisively to disrupt offenses. Raiden’s physicality is equally impressive, as he is strong enough to shed blockers and fight his way to the ball, often winning battles in the trenches.

Room to Grow

While Raiden excels in run defense, he’s working on becoming a more complete player by improving his coverage skills. The foundation is there—his athleticism and instincts give him the potential to be a well-rounded linebacker who can stay on the field in any situation. If his frame continues to develop, there’s a chance he could transition to playing with his hand in the dirt, where his combination of size, speed, and explosiveness would be a nightmare for opposing linemen.

Future Star

Currently a key piece for Vegas Strong, Raiden’s youth football journey has included time with powerhouse programs like the OG Ducks (CA), where his dominance as a top linebacker began on the 11U level. Now with Bishop Gorman in his sights, Johnson is positioned to thrive at the high school level and beyond. Known for producing elite talent, the Bishop Gorman program will give him the exposure, training, and competition needed to potentially develop into a future 5-star prospect.

If Raiden continues on his current trajectory, his name will undoubtedly be one to follow closely in recruiting circles. His physical tools, combined with his throwback toughness and relentless work ethic, make him a can’t-miss prospect.

Name: Amir McGregor

Position: QB

Team: Midwest Hawks (IL) 8u

Skinny:

At the AYF Youth National Championship, where the nation’s best 6U-14U players gather to compete, a rising star is making waves. Amir McGregor, the dynamic dual-threat quarterback for the Midwest Hawks (IL) 8U, proved he’s a game-changer, leading his team to a rare National Championship game appearance for Illinois.

The Hawks found themselves in a deep hole during the first round against the Hampton Road Ramblers. But McGregor, unfazed by the pressure, turned in one of the most electrifying performances of the tournament. Down by multiple scores, he flipped the script, scoring five unanswered touchdowns—a mix of explosive runs and perfectly placed throws.

Amir McGregor is the engine of the Hawks’ Spread offense, which thrives on putting athletes in space. At just 8 years old, McGregor already demonstrates advanced skills:

• Elusiveness: In the open field, defenders struggle to keep up as he navigates with quick footwork and incredible agility.

• Arm Talent: McGregor can throw accurately on the run, delivering crisp passes on flat routes and deep go routes.

• Football IQ: He consistently makes the right decisions. When defenses stack the box, he punishes secondaries with his arm. When they drop back in coverage, he tucks the ball and uses his legs to devastating effect.

The result? A highlight-filled journey through Nationals that secured the Hawks a coveted spot in the D-1 National Championship game—a feat Illinois hasn’t achieved in years.

Amir McGregor has all the makings of a future star. With his natural talent, work ethic, and love for the game, the sky’s the limit for this young phenom. Keep an eye out for him in years to come; this is just the beginning.

Name: Mike McLean

Position: RB

Team: PTSG (NC) 13u

Skinny:

The AYF Youth National Championship is the ultimate proving ground for young football talent, and this year’s tournament was no exception. Among the standout athletes, Mike McLean, a 13u star from North Carolina’s PTSG, reminded everyone why he is one of the most exciting prospects in the Class of 2029.

Two years removed from leading PTSG to the D-2 AYF 11u National Championship, McLean faced significant adversity, battling injuries that sidelined him and led to inconsistent performances. But the 2024 Nationals showed a fully evolved and healthy McLean, and his electrifying performance in the first-round thriller against the OG Ducks, one of California’s elite programs, turned heads.

McLean’s game was a masterclass in versatility and determination. The 3-down back showcased incredible quick change of direction, allowing him to explode out of cuts and evade defenders with ease. His ability to rack up yards after contact was equally impressive, as he powered through tackles and found ways to maximize every play. Most importantly, McLean delivered when it mattered most, scoring crucial touchdowns that helped PTSG stay competitive against a formidable opponent.

Standing bigger, stronger, and faster than ever, McLean’s growth as a player was evident. Beyond his rushing ability, his contributions as a weapon in the passing game proved his dynamic skill set. Whether catching passes in the open field or making plays out of the backfield, McLean was a constant threat whenever the ball was in his hands.

By the end of Nationals, McLean cemented his status as one of the top players in his class, silencing any doubts about his potential. With his blend of physicality, agility, and football IQ, Mike McLean is poised to be a name to watch as he continues his journey to the next level.

Name: JoJo Warren

Position: ATH

Team : AZ Suns 13u

Skinny:

JoJo Warren is making waves as one of the top young talents in the country, especially after a standout performance at the AYF Youth National Championship. Competing in the 13U division, Warren’s athleticism and versatility were on full display, earning him a spot on the prestigious Top Performers list.

As a wide receiver, Warren’s ability to create mismatches is a game-changer. With his size, wide catch radius, and sure hands, he’s a reliable option in both short-yardage situations and deep shots down the field. Warren thrives in contested-catch situations, showcasing great body control and toughness, especially in the red zone. A highlight-reel diving touchdown catch during the National Championship game went viral, cementing his status as a clutch performer.

While his receiver skills are already impressive, Warren is just scratching the surface. He excels in creating space and making plays in the middle of the field, but refining his route-running technique will only elevate his game further.

On the defensive side, Warren is no slouch. His instincts and ability to blanket receivers make him a nightmare in coverage. He’s adept at breaking up passes and forces quarterbacks to think twice before targeting his side of the field.

When the stakes are highest, Warren plays his best football. His upside as a dual-threat player at receiver and defensive back makes him a prospect to watch as he continues to develop. With the skillset he’s displayed at such a young age, it’s clear that JoJo Warren has a bright future in football.

Name: Brennan “Shark” Richardson

Position: WR/ATH

Team: OG Ducks (CA) 13u

Skinny:

The AYF Youth National Championship is the pinnacle of youth football competition, showcasing the future stars of the game. Among this year’s top performers is Brennan “Shark” Richardson, a dynamic athlete who has earned his place among the elite. Handpicked by the legendary Coach Keefe of the OG Ducks—a program that has produced college and NFL-level talent—Richardson is turning heads with his electrifying play.

A Star in the Making

Coach Keefe’s comparison of Richardson to OG Ducks alum Deandre Moore, now shining at the University of Texas, speaks volumes about Shark’s potential. Known for his fearlessness and knack for making clutch plays, Richardson thrives under the brightest lights. His nickname, “Shark,” reflects his relentless, predatory mindset on the field, making him a player who always smells blood in critical moments.

Elite Playmaking Abilities

Richardson is a quarterback’s dream. His ability to attack the football with ferocity and make acrobatic catches is second to none. Whether it’s contested catches in traffic or deep shots downfield, Shark’s combination of acceleration, precise route running, and midair body control ensures he’s a reliable target.

Even more impressive is his versatility. When OG Ducks’ star RB Asir Nemhard went down with an injury, Richardson stepped up to fill the void, seamlessly transitioning into a ball carrier. His rugby background is evident in his physical, elusive running style, making him a nightmare for defenders to tackle.

Future Star Potential

Richardson’s rare combination of athleticism, football IQ, and competitive fire positions him as one of the top prospects in his class, already pushing for 5-star recognition. His ability to impact games in multiple phases—whether as a receiver, runner, or playmaker on defense—sets him apart.

As the AYF National Championship continues, Brennan “Shark” Richardson is proving he’s not just a player to watch—he’s a name to remember. The OG Ducks have a new standout, and the future is looking very bright for this young phenom.

Name: Jamarion “WaterBaby” Thomas

Position: OL/DL

Team: Miami Gardens Ravens (FL) 13u

Skinny:

When the Miami Gardens Ravens need to set the tone in the trenches, they turn to Jamarion Thomas, better known as “Water Baby.” A dominant force on both sides of the ball, Thomas has earned his reputation as the linchpin of the Ravens’ line and a standout performer at the nation’s premier youth football event.

Player Profile

• Position: Offensive Line / Defensive Line

• Strengths:

• Massive Frame:

Thomas uses his size and strength to overpower defenders, excelling in short-yardage situations where raw power matters most.

• Versatility: Capable of playing both offensive and defensive line, Thomas’s adaptability makes him an asset wherever his team needs him.

• Lateral Movement & Quickness: His agility allows him to seal edges or pull as a guard, making him a dynamic blocker.

• Lower-Body Power: A key to his dominance in run-blocking, he consistently drives defenders off the line of scrimmage.

Performance Highlights

At the AYF Youth National Championship, Thomas showcased why he’s one of the top linemen in the competition. Whether anchoring the offensive line or disrupting plays defensively, he was a key factor in the Ravens’ physical dominance. His ability to establish leverage and use his length effectively makes him a game-changer.

Future Outlook

Jamarion Thomas’s combination of size, strength, and mobility positions him as a potential top-tier college athlete. His skills translate seamlessly to positions like offensive guard or tackle, and his versatility ensures he’ll remain valuable at any level of competition. If his development continues, “Water Baby” could become a name to watch in recruiting circles for years to come.

Miami Gardens Ravens are in good hands with this relentless force in the trenches.

Name: Jayce Jefferson

Position: QB

Team : Eastside Raiders (MI) 9u

Skinny:

At the AYF Youth National Championships, where the nation’s most elite young athletes from 6U to 14U compete, Detroit’s very own Jayce Jefferson shone as a standout performer in the 9U division. Despite not having the prototypical size or physical gifts of some of his peers, Jefferson’s fierce competitive spirit and field IQ set him apart as the fiery leader of the Eastside Raiders.

Known as a “field general,” Jefferson is the engine behind the Raiders’ wide-open offense. With his strong lower body providing surprising power, he delivers precise and well-timed throws in the intermediate range, dissecting defenses with accuracy beyond his years. Whether threading the needle to a receiver in stride or zipping a ball between defenders, his ability to read the field and execute has made him a coach’s dream.

Jefferson also impressed with his dual-threat capabilities. His poise in the pocket belies his age, and when the moment calls for it, his mobility and rushing instincts add a dangerous layer to his game. He showed excellent endurance throughout the tournament, evading pressure and breaking into the open field when opportunities arose. His combination of patience and explosiveness helped the Raiders stay competitive, as Jefferson routinely made critical plays to keep drives alive.

While the Eastside Raiders fell just 9 points short of securing a National Championship, Jefferson’s leadership, work ethic, and clutch playmaking were undeniable. At just 9 years old, his high ceiling is evident, and his progression as a quarterback will be one to watch in the years to come. If his AYF Nationals performance is any indication, Jayce Jefferson is poised to make waves in youth football circles as he continues to develop into a true dual-threat quarterback.

Name: Jaylen Wallace

Position: DB

Team : Maryland Heat 14u

Skinny:

At the AYF Youth National Championship, where the best of 6U-14U football compete under the bright lights, Maryland Heat’s Jaylen Wallace shined when it mattered most. Known for his high motor and clutch performances, Wallace’s impact was undeniable, particularly in the National Championship game, where his defensive prowess limited the high-powered Vegas Strong offense to just 7 points.

Wallace’s ability to make big plays at critical moments sets him apart. His change of direction and recovery speed allow him to stay in plays that seem out of reach. When the ball is in the air, he transforms into a playmaker, aggressively attacking passes and creating game-changing turnovers. His awareness and football IQ are advanced for his age, as demonstrated by his ability to read routes, anticipate plays, and disrupt offensive momentum.

In a matchup against one of the top offenses in the nation, Wallace’s field vision and instincts were vital to Maryland Heat’s defensive success. His natural ability to adapt and execute under pressure cements his reputation as one of the most promising defensive backs in the Class of 2029.

With his combination of skill, awareness, and determination, Jaylen Wallace is a name to remember as he continues his rise in youth football. His standout performance at the National Championship ensures he will remain on the radar as one of the top young defensive talents in the country.

Name: Ayden Collins

Position: ATH

Team : Gorilla Mob (TX) 9u

Skinny:

Ayden Collins, a dynamic athlete from the AYF 9U National Champion Gorilla Mob team out of Texas, delivered a performance for the ages at this year’s AYF Youth National Championship. Competing with just 17 players, Collins emerged as the team MVP, making his mark on both sides of the ball from round one to the title game.

Offensive Dominance

As a running back, Collins displayed a unique combination of power, vision, and speed that terrorized opposing defenses. Whether breaking runs to the outside with his elite burst or grinding through defenders between the tackles, Collins proved nearly impossible to contain. His punishing running style wore down opponents over the course of games, while his breakaway speed made him a constant threat to take it to the house.

Defensive Impact

Collins was equally impressive on defense, where his versatility allowed him to thrive at both linebacker and defensive line. His physicality and instinct at the point of attack disrupted offensive schemes, and he consistently created havoc for opposing quarterbacks and running backs. His speed and agility made him an asset not only as a pass-rusher but also in coverage, highlighting his potential to dominate as an outside linebacker in the future.

Future Outlook

With his high football IQ and relentless motor, Ayden Collins has the potential to excel at the next level. While his ceiling may be highest as a weak-side linebacker, his offensive skill set makes him a dual-threat talent with endless possibilities. Adding size and continuing to refine his game will be key as he transitions to the next stages of his football journey.

Bottom Line: Ayden Collins is a special talent and one of the top performers at this year’s AYF National Championship. His leadership, versatility, and impact on both sides of the ball make him a name to watch in the coming years.

Name: Kennard Smith

Position: DE/TE

Team : Southfield Falcons (MI) 13u

Skinny:

The Southfield Falcons, former 11U AYF National Champions, made a triumphant return as a 13U powerhouse in the 2024 AYF Youth National Championship. Among their standout performers was Kennard Smith, a dynamic athlete whose towering 6’3” to 6’4” frame has captured the attention of coaches and evaluators nationwide.

Known primarily for his play at tight end throughout his youth football career, Smith displayed his immense versatility and potential by stepping up as a dominant defensive end during the championship. His size, wingspan, and ability to disrupt offenses made him a game-changer, and his performance couldn’t have come at a better time.

Why Coaches are Taking Notice:

• Elite Size & Frame: Smith’s height and wingspan are rare for his age group, giving him a natural edge as a pass-rusher and blocker.

• Pass-Deflection Specialist: His long reach makes him a nightmare for quarterbacks, swatting down pass attempts with ease.

• Technical Growth: Smith has shown advanced footwork and hand-fighting techniques, essential for shedding blockers and making plays.

• Coachability: Perhaps most impressive is his willingness to identify and correct flaws in his game, a trait that will serve him well at the next level.

Championship Contributions:

In the 2024 Nationals, Smith turned heads with his relentless motor and knack for making key plays. He not only collected multiple sacks but also disrupted passing lanes and blew up critical run plays, proving to be a driving force in the Falcons’ defense.

Future Outlook:

Smith’s size and athleticism position him well to play defensive end in high school, with the potential to bulk up and slide to tackle if needed. His desire to improve, coupled with his natural gifts, makes him one to watch as he transitions to the next level. If his growth trajectory continues, expect Smith’s stock to soar as he develops into a premier prospect in the trenches.

Kennard Smith’s standout performance at the AYF Nationals solidifies his status as a rising star. Keep an eye on this young talent as he continues to make waves on and off the field.

Name: Sincere Rosenbaugh

Position: RB/ATH

Team: PTE (NC)

Skinny:

The AYF Youth National Championship showcases the brightest young talents from across the country, and few have made a more electrifying impression than North Carolina native Rosenbaugh, a standout RB/ATH for the Primetime Elite Bulldogs. Over the past two seasons, Rosenbaugh has emerged as one of the most dynamic youth football players, earning a spot on the top performers list and cementing his status as a player to watch in the coming years.

Physical Profile

Rosenbaugh is a man-child in terms of his physical stature, boasting the size and frame of a player two years older. His rare combination of speed, power, and quickness sets him apart on the field. He routinely uses his physical gifts to dominate opponents, particularly when he finds open space, where his breakaway speed makes him nearly impossible to catch.

Offensive Playmaking

Rosenbaugh’s most striking attribute is his ability to hit the perimeter with authority. His quickness allows him to outrun defenders to the edge, and once he’s in the open field, his vision and acceleration take over. Defenses are often left scrambling when he gets a clear lane down the sideline.

However, as he continues to develop, there’s room for growth in his approach to running between the tackles. Rosenbaugh sometimes bypasses interior rushing lanes in favor of seeking the big play outside. While his natural ability to produce home runs is a major asset, learning to embrace the physicality of inside runs will make him a more complete and reliable back, particularly as he faces stiffer competition in the coming years.

Defensive Versatility

Rosenbaugh’s talent isn’t limited to offense. His athleticism, size, and instincts make him a versatile defensive option as well. Whether lined up as a linebacker, safety, or edge rusher, he displays the ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball. His football IQ and physicality hint at the potential for him to develop into a two-way standout at the next level.

What’s Next?

As Rosenbaugh transitions into the next phases of his youth football career, refining his skill set will be critical. Balancing his explosive playstyle with a more consistent approach as a three-down back will elevate his game. Defensively, continued work on his tackling technique and field awareness could make him even more valuable to his team.

One thing is clear: Rosenbaugh has the tools to become a household name in youth football and beyond. With his combination of physical gifts and natural playmaking ability, he’s a prospect worth following as he continues his journey toward high school and beyond.

Name: Mason Kirkland

Position: ATH

Team: River Boys (GA) 8u

Skinny:

At just 8 years old, Mason Kirkland has already established himself as one of the premier young athletes in the nation. Competing for the back-to-back AYF Division 2 National Champion Savannah River Boys, Kirkland has become a household name in youth football circles, particularly after his standout performances at the AYF Youth National Championship, the largest youth football league in the country.

Hailing from Savannah, Georgia, Kirkland is a rare talent who not only dominates on offense but also excels on defense. With a physical presence beyond his years, he blends size, speed, and agility in a way that sets him apart from his peers. As a running back, he’s a dynamic playmaker who can carry the load for his team. His balance, ability to shed tackles, and explosiveness in the open field make him nearly impossible to stop.

But what truly separates Kirkland from the pack is his defensive prowess. Despite his offensive dominance, many see his future as even brighter on defense. Playing linebacker, Kirkland’s natural instincts shine. He disrupts plays in the backfield, reads offenses with precision, and even patrols passing lanes with the awareness of a seasoned veteran.

Kirkland’s ability to excel in all phases of the game makes him the heartbeat of the River Boys, a program loaded with talent. His rare combination of physicality, football IQ, and versatility has drawn comparisons to some of the greatest youth players in recent memory.

With his trajectory, Mason Kirkland is poised to become one of the most talked-about names in youth football for years to come. The River Boys are in good hands with this young phenom leading the charge, and the rest of the country should take notice—Kirkland is just getting started.

Name: King Henry

Position: RB

Team : Benson Bruin (WA) 12u

Skinny:

The Benson Bruins, a powerhouse program dominating the West Coast for over two years, faced an uncharacteristic setback at the 2023 AYF Youth National Championship. Determined to reclaim their throne, the Bruins retooled their roster, adding key pieces to fuel another title run. Among those additions is a dynamic new weapon: King Henry, a slashing running back with a unique blend of speed, vision, and precision.

Henry wasted no time making his mark on the national stage, delivering a breakout performance that solidified his place among the top young talents in the country. His game is defined by his ability to quickly get downhill, utilizing elite short-area quickness and a smooth, one-cut running style that leaves defenders grasping at air. With a vision grade of 18/20, Henry’s ability to anticipate and navigate through traffic sets him apart, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Though his game leans heavily on finesse, Henry is no stranger to physicality. He consistently works through arm tackles and picks up crucial yardage after contact. His knack for getting narrow in the trenches and finding seams in tightly contested spaces showcases his advanced football IQ and field awareness. Coaches praise his reliability and ability to elevate the Bruins’ offense when it matters most.

Henry’s arrival has already electrified the Benson Bruins, positioning them as serious contenders to bring the AYF National Championship back to the Pacific West. With his talent and the Bruins’ renewed focus, the 2024 season could mark the start of a new era for this storied program.

Name: Lavonta Johnson Jr.

Position: ATH

Team :

Skinny:

Lavonta Johnson Jr. has been making waves at the AYF Youth National Championship, standing out as one of the most versatile and valuable players on the field. Blessed with a rare combination of size, athleticism, and football IQ, Johnson has proven to be the engine behind his team’s success.

As a receiver, Johnson is a nightmare for defenders in space. His smooth and fluid movement, paired with exceptional short-area quickness, allows him to consistently make the first tackler miss. His natural ball skills and ability to adjust to passes make him a go-to target in clutch situations.

Defensively, Johnson shows just as much promise. Whether playing linebacker or safety, he demonstrates a keen understanding of the game, reading plays with precision and delivering impactful tackles. His versatility on both sides of the ball makes him a unique asset, and his ability to make plays in any situation has propelled the Beast End Tigers to new heights this season.

Looking ahead, Johnson’s future is bright. His all-around talent raises intriguing questions about where he’ll ultimately specialize in high school and beyond. Whether schools see him as a dynamic offensive weapon or a defensive playmaker, one thing is certain: Lavonta Johnson Jr. is a name to watch for years to come.

Name: Kyrie Carter-Harris

Position: DL

Team : Southfield Falcons (MI) 10u

Skinny:

Kyrie Carter-Harris of the Southfield Falcons (MI) made a lasting impression at this year’s AYF Youth National Championship, showcasing his undeniable talent and competitive spirit. Competing on the 10U stage, Carter-Harris put on a clinic, proving why he deserves to be listed among the top performers in the nation.

Carter-Harris plays the game with fearlessness, thriving on competition and using every play as an opportunity to improve. His relentless motor and unmatched intensity made him a force to be reckoned with on the field. Whenever chaos unfolded in the backfield, Carter-Harris emerged as the difference-maker, disrupting plays and leaving his mark.

What sets Carter-Harris apart is his drive to be the best. Whether it’s through dominating pile-ups or making key stops, his hunger and determination are evident on every snap. His performance at AYF Nationals solidified his place as one of the rising stars to watch in youth football.

With his passion, work ethic, and high football IQ, Kyrie Carter-Harris is carving out a path to greatness, setting the bar high for what it means to excel at the 10U level.

Name: Tailor “Trawkhawk” Thomas

Position: ATH

Team: Westside Cubs (MI)

Skinny:

Tailor “TrackHawk” Thomas made his mark at the AYF Youth National Championship, playing a pivotal role in the Westside Cubs’ D-2 National Championship victory. Known as the team’s enforcer, Thomas showcased his dual-threat abilities as a bruising running back and a relentless defensive end. His performance on both sides of the ball earned him Team MVP honors, cementing his status as one of the top youth football players in the nation.

Offensive Impact

Thomas dominated as a running back with a versatile skill set that allowed him to excel in multiple roles:

• Between the Tackles: His powerful, downhill running style punished defenders, forcing them to wrap up and drive him to the ground.

• Off the Edge: His lateral agility and vision helped him exploit open lanes and break off explosive runs.

Thomas’ initial burst made him a consistent threat for chunk yardage, while his physicality and balance allowed him to shed arm tackles with ease. His two rushing touchdowns were instrumental in the Cubs’ championship victory.

Defensive Force

On defense, Thomas brought a “nasty edge” as a relentless defensive end. His natural anticipation, high motor, and physicality allowed him to disrupt plays and set the tone for the Cubs’ defense. Whether stuffing the run or applying pressure in the backfield, Thomas was a constant presence that opposing offenses struggled to neutralize.

Championship Mindset

Thomas’ toughness and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments epitomized the Cubs’ balanced approach to victory. His contributions on both sides of the ball not only helped the team secure the title but also highlighted his potential as a standout player to watch in the future.

As Thomas continues to develop, his unique blend of power, vision, and versatility will make him a force to be reckoned with at higher levels of competition. Tailor “TrackHawk” Thomas is a name to remember in the world of youth football.