The Detroit Free Press, together with Buffalo Wild Wings, has opened its annual preseason football player of the year poll, spotlighting six elite prospects from the southeast Michigan region. The competition, which runs until July 9, invites fans to help determine which rising star will receive the coveted honor.
Among the nominees, Anthony Cartwright III, a receiver‑tight end from Beverly Hills Detroit Country Day, holds the No. 8 ranking in Michigan for the class of 2027. Gideon Gash, a four‑sport athlete at Novi Detroit Catholic Central, is positioned at No. 2 statewide, while Dakota Guerrant tops the Michigan recruit list for 2027 and led Harper Woods to an undefeated regular season.
Bryce Kish, a four‑star linebacker prospect from Howell, brings a national No. 12 ranking, and Myles Smith, the No. 6 overall recruit in Michigan, guided Farmington to a 7‑3 record. Completing the group, Donald Tabron II is recognized as the nation’s third‑ranked quarterback for the 2028 class.
The Contenders
Each nominee brings a distinct profile: Cartwright’s versatility on the offensive line, Gash’s athletic breadth across multiple sports, Guerrant’s raw talent that has already translated into team success, Kish’s defensive prowess, Smith’s leadership in a challenging season, and Tabron’s quarterback skill set that has drawn national attention. Their early college commitments range from Texas Tech to Clemson, Indiana, and beyond, signaling a bright future for the players and their future programs.
Voting is now live on the Free Press website, where fans can review detailed bios and highlight reels before casting their ballots. The poll not only celebrates individual excellence but also underscores the deep talent pool that the region consistently produces each recruiting cycle.
Looking Ahead
As the July 9 deadline approaches, the excitement among coaches, teammates, and local supporters continues to build. Whichever player emerges from the poll will carry added momentum into the upcoming high school season, potentially influencing recruiting rankings and college choices for the next generation of Michigan football stars.