As the 2025 high school football season approaches, excitement is building around the nation’s top quarterbacks. These elite signal-callers have already made waves with their performances, college commitments, and championship pedigrees. Leading the pack are Dia Bell (American Heritage, Plantation, Fla.), Ryder Lyons (Folsom, Calif.), and Faizon Brandon (Grimsley, Greensboro, N.C.), who headline MaxPreps’ list of the top 10 quarterbacks in the country.
The Elite: Bell, Lyons, and Brandon Lead the Way
1. Dia Bell – American Heritage (Plantation, Fla.)
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 215
Status: Committed to Texas | Class: Senior (2026)
Dia Bell enters his senior season as one of the most polished quarterbacks in the nation. After an outstanding junior year—throwing for 2,597 yards and 29 touchdowns while completing over 70% of his passes—Bell solidified his status as a future star. His dual-threat ability was on full display as he added 561 rushing yards and five touchdowns.
In June, Bell was crowned Elite 11 MVP, further proving why he’s considered one of the best in the 2026 class. Committed to Texas, he’ll look to lead American Heritage—ranked No. 8 in MaxPreps’ Top 25—to a state title before heading to Austin.
2. Ryder Lyons – Folsom (Calif.)
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 225
Status: Committed to BYU | Class: Senior (2026)
Ryder Lyons has been a statistical machine over the past two seasons, accounting for 8,103 total yards and 121 touchdowns. His commitment to BYU marks a historic moment for the Cougars, as he’s their highest-rated recruit since 2003.
Lyons has been instrumental in Folsom’s success, including a state championship run in 2023. With his arm strength, mobility, and football IQ, he’s a strong contender for California’s Mr. Football honors this season.
3. Faizon Brandon – Grimsley (Greensboro, N.C.)
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 205
Status: Committed to Tennessee | Class: Senior (2026)
Faizon Brandon, the No. 1-ranked player in the Class of 2026 (per 247Sports), has been nothing short of dominant. Over the past two seasons, he’s led Grimsley to a 29-1 record, throwing for 5,840 yards and 71 touchdowns while adding 1,153 rushing yards and 18 more scores.
Brandon’s leadership was key in Grimsley’s 4A state title run, earning him MaxPreps North Carolina Player of the Year honors. Tennessee fans have plenty to look forward to when he arrives in Knoxville.
The Next Tier: Standout Seniors and Rising Juniors
While Bell, Lyons, and Brandon sit atop the rankings, several other quarterbacks are poised for huge seasons.
4. Jared Curtis – Nashville Christian (Tenn.)
The Georgia commit and reigning MaxPreps Tennessee Player of the Year threw for 2,830 yards and 40 touchdowns while leading his team to a state title. His dual-threat ability (637 rushing yards, 18 TDs) makes him a nightmare for defenses.
5. Elijah Haven – Dunham (Baton Rouge, La.)
The top-ranked 2027 prospect had a monster sophomore year, accounting for 4,018 total yards (3,093 passing, 925 rushing) and 58 touchdowns. His recruitment will be one to watch as he remains uncommitted.
6. Keisean Henderson – Legacy School of Sport Sciences (Spring, Texas)
A five-star Houston commit, Henderson turned heads as the MVP of the Navy All-American Bowl, showcasing his elite athleticism and arm talent.
7. Brady Smigiel – Newbury Park (Calif.)
With 11,222 career passing yards and 147 touchdowns, the Michigan commit is one of the most prolific passers in high school football history.
8. Dereon Coleman – Jones (Orlando, Fla.)
The Miami commit led Jones to a 4A state runner-up finish, throwing for 3,412 yards and 28 touchdowns while adding 455 rushing yards.
9. Matt Ponatoski – Archbishop Moeller (Cincinnati, Ohio)
The Kentucky commit and Ohio Player of the Year threw for 4,187 yards and 57 touchdowns, nearly leading Moeller to a state title.
10. Peyton Houston – Evangel Christian Academy (Shreveport, La.)
The four-star 2027 prospect made history last season, becoming just the third QB ever to throw for 800+ yards in a game (53/68, 817 yards, 8 TDs).
What to Watch in 2025
This season promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with elite quarterbacks leading powerhouse programs. Whether it’s Dia Bell chasing a Texas state title, Ryder Lyons aiming for another California championship, or Faizon Brandon defending his crown, these players will be must-watch talents every Friday night.
With eight of the top 10 being seniors, this could be the last high school season for many of these stars before they take their talents to college football’s biggest stages. Meanwhile, underclassmen like Elijah Haven and Peyton Houston are just getting started, setting the stage for future battles.
One thing is certain: The 2025 high school football season will be defined by these elite quarterbacks, and their performances will be unforgettable.
