Each year since 2006, MaxPreps has recognized outstanding performers in high school football. America's source for high school sports continues the tradition to close out the 2023 season by naming the top player in each state. Selections are based on team success and individual excellence in addition to local and state accolades.
Cru Newman of
Central Catholic (Portland) is the 2023 MaxPreps Oregon High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot, 185-pound senior quarterback led the Rams to a 13-0 record and Class 6A state title.
In a 49-21 win over Tualatin in the championship game, Newman completed 19 of 24 passes for 346 yards and a touchdown, along with 10 carries for 96 yards and two more scores. Thanks in part to his efforts, Central Catholic broke the record for most total yards in a state title game with 639.
MaxPreps Oregon Player of the Year Cru Newman was under center for undefeated state championship teams as a sophomore and senior. (Photo: Brian Murphy)
For the season, Newman threw for 2,671 yards and 31 touchdowns against just four interceptions while completing 68.2 percent of his passes. He added 719 yards and 15 TDs on the ground.
In the season-opener against Bellevue (Wash.), Newman completed 19 of 23 pass attempts for a season-high 356 yards and five touchdowns in a 48-27 win. He also ran for 63 yards.
Newman leaves Central Catholic at No. 10 on Oregon's all-time passing list with 7,684 yards. His 94 career touchdown passes (tied for fifth) and 9,802 yards of total offense (fifth) also rank high in state history. He went 37-2 during three seasons as the starting quarterback.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Oregon Players of the Year
2021 — Dom Montiel, QB, Marshfield (Coos Bay)
2022 — Sam Leavitt, QB, West Linn
