Top 10 High School Football Players in California

California is a hotbed for high school football talent, and the 2025 class is no exception. Several players in the state have already committed to major college programs, and many more are expected to follow suit in the coming months. Here’s a look at some of the top high school football players in California for the 2025 class.

One of the most highly touted players in the state is quarterback Malachi Nelson of Los Alamitos High School. Nelson is a five-star recruit who has committed to the University of Oklahoma. He is considered one of the best quarterbacks in the country and has led Los Alamitos to two state championships. Another top quarterback in the state is Cade Klubnik of Westlake High School. Klubnik is a four-star recruit who has committed to the University of Texas. He is a dual-threat quarterback who can make plays with his arm and his legs.

On the defensive side of the ball, there are several players who have already made a name for themselves. One of the top pass rushers in the state is Shemar Stewart of Corona Centennial High School. Stewart is a five-star recruit who has committed to the University of Texas. He is a versatile player who can play outside linebacker or defensive end. Another top defender in the state is safety Sonny Styles of Etiwanda High School. Styles is a four-star recruit who has committed to the University of Ohio State. He is a hard-hitting safety who can also play cornerback.

The Prodigy Quarterback: Ethan Johnson

Ethan Johnson, the young prodigy from Mission Viejo High School, has taken the high school football scene by storm with his exceptional leadership and pinpoint passing prowess. At 6'2" and 190 lbs, Johnson commands the field with confidence and composure. His ability to dissect defenses and deliver the ball to his receivers with surgical precision has drawn the attention of college scouts and earned him the respect of his opponents. Johnson’s arm strength and accuracy are unparalleled. He possesses a lightning-quick release that allows him to zip the ball through tight windows. His touch on the deep ball is exquisite, with the ability to drop dimes over the top of the defense with ease. Johnson also has a knack for avoiding pressure and extending plays, scrambling away from defenders and delivering key passes on the run. In 2022, Johnson led Mission Viejo to an undefeated regular season and a CIF Championship game appearance. He threw for over 3,000 yards, 30 touchdowns, and only 5 interceptions, showcasing his efficiency and big-play ability. Johnson’s stats are tabulated below:

The Defensive Force: Luke Carter

Luke Carter, a rising junior at Santa Margarita Catholic High School in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, has established himself as one of the most promising defensive players in the state. Standing at 6'3" and weighing 220 pounds, Carter possesses an impressive frame that complements his athleticism and instincts on the field.

Physical Attributes and Skills

Carter has exceptional size and strength for his position. His physical presence allows him to overpower opposing linemen and create havoc in the backfield. Carter’s quickness and agility enable him to cover ground quickly and make tackles in space. He is also an adept pass rusher, using his strength and speed to disrupt quarterbacks and force turnovers.

Leadership and Intangibles

Beyond his physical attributes, Carter is also a natural leader on and off the field. He leads by example with his hard work and dedication, inspiring his teammates to follow his lead. Carter is a role model for his peers and is well-respected by his coaches and opponents.

The Scoring Sensation: Jaylen Brown

Jaylen Brown, a rising star from Bishop O’Dowd High School in Oakland, is a scoring machine on the gridiron. His exceptional athleticism and relentless determination have made him one of the most prolific scorers in California.

Brown’s scoring prowess is unmatched. In his sophomore season, he led the Bay Area League in scoring with 18 touchdowns and over 1,000 rushing yards. He has a knack for finding the end zone, showcasing his explosive speed and power. His ability to break tackles and sprint past defenders with ease makes him a constant threat to opposing teams.

Beyond his scoring ability, Brown is also a versatile athlete. He excels as a running back, wide receiver, and even quarterback when needed. His agility and athleticism allow him to impact the game in multiple ways. He possesses strong hands, making him a reliable target for passes. Additionally, he has excellent field vision and can make quick decisions in the heat of the game.