On Wednesday Jackson Cantwell, the Hurricanes' five-star offensive tackle signee was named the 2025-26 Gatorade National Football Player of the Year, the top individual honor in high school football and a trophy often dubbed the "High School Heisman."
Former Cleveland Browns and Wisconsin star Joe Thomas, now a Pro Football Hall of Famer, surprised Cantwell with the award during a ceremony at Nixa High School.
OT Jackson Cantwell: Gatorade National Football Player of the Year
Thomas has a long relationship with Cantwell's family, dating back to his admiration for Jackson's father, Olympic shot put silver medalist Christian Cantwell, and the two linemen have gotten to know each other in recent years.