‘Edgy’ Tim: Preseason prep football player of the year candidates
With less than three weeks left until the IHSA kicks off the 2025 prep football season, let's take a look at several preseason player of the year candidates from within the Daily Herald coverage area.
Montini Catholic junior QB Israel Abrams
Abrams (6-foot-4, 187 pounds) continued to grow and develop this offseason, and more Power 4 schools have extended scholarship offers. Abrams has impressive arm talent, is a leader for the Broncos on and off the field and his continued development makes him one of the most intriguing names still available in a stacked 2027 quarterback class. His game has advanced so much since last November when he led Montini to the Class 3A state title.
Cary Grove senior FB/LB Logan Abrams
Abrams (6-2, 230 pounds), who suffered a season-ending injury in 2024, is back and ready to roll this season for the Trojans. Abrams is an old-school throwback as a fullback in the Trojans’ triple option offense, and his power and running style reminds me of former Joliet Catholic/Purdue and NFL fullback Mike Alstott. Abrams has interest from Iowa and several MAC-level schools as a linebacker.
Downers Grove North senior QB Owen Lansu
Lansu (6-2, 190 pounds), who is committed to Minnesota, will be a rare four-year varsity starter this fall for Trojans head coach Joe Horeni. Lansu possesses an impressive arm, great instincts and he plays with a calm demeanor no matter the situation. His football IQ and ability to make good decisions down after down is uncanny. Lansu has played a ton of high school football heading into this season and the game continues to slow down for him.
Fremd senior QB Johnny O'Brien
O’Brien (6-3, 200 pounds) has been committed to Northwestern for well over a year now. O'Brien possesses a great combination of arm talent, touch and quality decision making under duress. O'Brien possesses a very high football IQ and his leadership ability on and off the field is unquestioned.
Maine South junior QB Jameson Purcell
Purcell (6-3, 193 pounds), who committed to Indiana earlier this summer, was impressive last season in leading the Hawks to the Class 8A quarterfinals. Purcell, a lefty, brings a strong and accurate arm to the field. His ability to thread the needle in traffic or throw the ball with touch is a strong part of his game. While he is more of a pocket passer and pro-style quarterback, Purcell can and will use his legs to avoid an oncoming pass rush.
St. Charles North senior WR/S Keaton Reinke
Reinke (6-3, 205 pounds), committed to Northwestern as a receiver, is an experienced impact player and leader for the North Stars. Look for Reinke to play at receiver, linebacker, safety and pretty much anywhere else on the field this fall. Reinke is a nonstop worker with a motor that runs at 100% at all times.
Warren Township senior RB Aaron Stewart
Stewart, (5-foot-7, 175 pounds), committed to Illinois for both football and wrestling, is a powerful runner whose combination of speed, wiggle and explosiveness is something to watch. Stewart, a nationally-ranked wrestler, can carry the football 25-30 times a game if needed.
Carmel Catholic junior QB Trae Taylor
Taylor (6-foot-3, 187 pounds), committed to Nebraska, is a four-star ranked quarterback according to Rivals.com. Taylor is looking to get the Corsairs into the playoffs after a disappointing 3-6 season a year ago. Taylor has all the tools you look for in a player of the year candidate, but the biggest challenge will be a difficult schedule.
Batavia junior QB Michael Vander Luitgaren
Vander Luitgaren (6-foot-2, 190 pounds), who is also a standout baseball player, had a huge 2024 postseason. Vander Luitgaren took over the Bulldogs’ offense in the playoffs and led them to the 7A state title game. His overall athletic skills are ideally suited for Batavia’s play-action passing game, This summer he camped with Illinois, Iowa, Northwestern and Minnesota, and he has game day visits planned to Iowa, Indiana and Northwestern.
St. Francis senior WR Zachary Washington
Washington (6-foot-2, 185 pounds), committed to Michigan State, is a long, lanky, athletic receiver who can break open a game with every reception. His hands, ball skills and field awareness are high level. In traffic, high school defensive backs will struggle to win jump balls because of Washington’s length, jumping ability and extremely strong hands.