The Montgomery Advertiser has opened a statewide fan poll to crown the preseason high school Football Player of the Year for the 2026 season, a title sponsored by The Vance Law Firm. The contest will run from Sunday, June 28, through noon on Thursday, July 2, with the champion revealed on Friday, July 3.
Selection of the nominees hinges on a blend of 2025 production and projected impact for the upcoming campaign, ensuring that the list reflects both proven contributors and those poised for breakout performances.
The Six Candidates
The six athletes shortlisted include Deshawn Hall, Elijah Tarver, Gunner Gibbs, Braden Gordon, KB Simmons and Land Sharpless, each celebrated for distinct achievements that have shaped their reputations across Alabama’s high school football landscape.
Deshawn Hall, a Montgomery‑area recruit ranked as the top wide receiver in the state by the 247 Sports Composite, finished the previous season with 660 receiving yards and five touchdowns, positioning him as a leading offensive weapon for his team.
Elijah Tarver served as a workhorse for Carver in 2025, shouldering the bulk of the offensive load and recently committing to Navy, a move that underscores his readiness for the next level.
Gunner Gibbs led the Patriots to the third round of the AHSAA playoffs last year, throwing for 1,912 yards and 22 touchdowns, and now anchors Pike Road’s ambitions to return to the state championship game.
Braden Gordon, heralded as the premier small‑school player in Alabama, earned first‑team all‑state honors in 2025 and has pledged to Georgia Tech, bringing his skill set to the collegiate stage.
KB Simmons, previously an under‑the‑radar prospect, is slated for a marquee role with the Knights this season and is attracting early Division I interest on both sides of the ball.
Land Sharpless experienced an unexpected breakout due to injury setbacks, gaining the confidence to assume a leadership position for the 2026 campaign.
Commitments and Outlook
The commitments of Tarver to Navy and Gordon to Georgia Tech illustrate the caliber of talent drawing attention from national programs, while the diverse skill sets of the remaining nominees promise a competitive and unpredictable vote.
Fans across Alabama and beyond are encouraged to cast their ballots online, with the winner set to be celebrated in a special announcement on July 3, cementing the athlete’s status as the preseason favorite for the 2026 season.