The list of contenders for the 2026 Matt Wilhelm Award, recognizing the top high school football player, has been unveiled. Named in honor of Matt Wilhelm, a former standout for the Elyria Catholic Panthers and the Ohio State Buckeyes, the award celebrates exceptional talent in the sport. Wilhelm, notable for winning a BCS national championship and a Super Bowl with the Green Bay Packers, sets a high standard for this year’s emerging stars.
The initial watch list features a mix of quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers, all showcasing impressive statistics from their previous seasons. The roster will be updated weekly as players continue to compete throughout the season.
Key Contenders for the Award
One standout is Carter Atwater, a sophomore quarterback from Rocky River. During his debut season, Atwater stepped up as the backup quarterback, completing 20 of 26 passes for 548 yards. He achieved nine touchdowns against just one interception in five games, leading his team to victories over Valley Forge (42-14) and Lakewood (39-13).
Another notable player is LaMarcus Clark, a junior running back from Fairview. Clark will step into the spotlight as the team transitions from Burke Lowry, a former Matt Wilhelm finalist. With the potential for a run-first offense, Clark might be poised for a standout season.
From Bay High School, junior quarterback Patrick Cleary is also in the mix. Under the guidance of offensive coordinator Nick Bigrigg, Cleary generated 1,790 passing yards and was among three local quarterbacks to throw at least 20 touchdowns. With wide receiver Brody Beggs returning, the Rockets’ offense could excel in 2026.
Wide receiver Fin Jerdonek from Avon is another player to watch. Jerdonek was named an honorable mention in the Division II Northeast Lakes All-District after catching 40 passes for 613 yards, including seven touchdowns. His experience from a deep playoff run last season will be invaluable.
Emerging Talents and Established Stars
Sophomore running back Xavier Hendon from Columbia had a remarkable season with 1,211 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, helping his team achieve a 9-2 record and win the Lorain County League championship. With three of four starting offensive linemen returning, Hendon has a strong foundation for his triple-option offense.
Another returning finalist is Tristin Hughes, a junior athlete from Rocky River. As the CWC Player of the Year, Hughes had over 1,000 receiving yards and led the area with 27 touchdowns. He has committed to Syracuse University, solidifying his status as a top prospect.
Wide receiver Rowan Kennedy, also from Rocky River, is a sophomore who made significant contributions with over 1,000 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns last season. His performance earned him second-team all-district recognition.
In the running back and linebacker position, Wyatt McKee from Keystone is a junior who nearly reached 1,000 rushing yards despite missing two games. With 15 touchdowns to his credit, a healthy season in 2026 could see him as a serious contender for the award.
Finally, Dawson TenBrink, a sophomore quarterback from Avon Lake, threw for 1,666 yards and 13 touchdowns last season, despite the team finishing with a 3-7 record. TenBrink faces challenges as he loses key players, but he has shown promise for the upcoming season.
With a diverse array of talent in the mix, Tristin Hughes from Rocky River stands out as the early favorite for the Matt Wilhelm Award. The competition is set to intensify as the season progresses, and the watch list will evolve as players make their mark on the field.
