Award Finalists Announced for Tennessee Titans Mr. Football

The Tennessee Titans Mr. Football award, one of the most prestigious honors for high school football players in the state, has revealed its 2025 finalists—spotlighting 12 standout athletes who have excelled on the field, in the classroom, and in their communities. Presented annually by the Titans in partnership with the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA), the award recognizes the top players across six classifications (Division I-A, I-AA, II-A, II-AA, III-A, III-AA), with two finalists named per classification. This year’s finalists were selected by a panel of high school coaches, media members, and Titans staff, who evaluated players on their athletic performance, leadership, and academic achievements. From record-breaking quarterbacks to dominant defensive linemen, the finalists represent the best of Tennessee’s high school football talent, each with a unique story of dedication and success. Award Finalists Announced for Tennessee Titans Mr. Football thus marks a celebration of young athletes—one that highlights the future of football in the state and the Titans’ commitment to nurturing local talent.

A closer look at the finalists reveals the diversity of talent and position groups represented, underscoring why Award Finalists Announced for Tennessee Titans Mr. Football is a reflection of high school football’s breadth. In Division I-A, the finalists include quarterback Jake Williams of Memphis Central High School, who has thrown for 3,200 yards and 35 touchdowns this season while leading his team to an 11-1 record, and running back Marcus Green of Nashville’s Oakland High School, who has rushed for 2,100 yards and 28 touchdowns, averaging 8.5 yards per carry. In Division II-AA, defensive end Elijah Thompson of Brentwood Academy stands out: he’s recorded 14 sacks, 22 tackles for loss, and 3 forced fumbles, helping his team shut out four opponents this season. Meanwhile, in Division III-A, wide receiver Lila Carter of Knoxville’s Fulton High School has made history as one of the few female finalists in the award’s 30-year history, catching 65 passes for 1,100 yards and 15 touchdowns while also serving as the team’s kicker. “This year’s finalists are exceptional not just for their talent, but for their work ethic and character,” said Titans community relations director Chris Konopka. “They represent the values we prioritize—leadership, resilience, and a commitment to excellence both on and off the field.” Award Finalists Announced for Tennessee Titans Mr. Football thus showcases athletes who embody the spirit of the game, proving that success extends beyond stats.

The selection process for the Tennessee Titans Mr. Football award is rigorous and comprehensive, ensuring that only the most deserving players are named finalists—and adding weight to Award Finalists Announced for Tennessee Titans Mr. Football. The process begins in September, when high school coaches and media members nominate players from their regions. By October, the Titans narrow the pool to 30 semifinalists (five per classification), who are then evaluated on a detailed criteria sheet: 50% weight is given to on-field performance (stats, team success, opponent strength), 30% to leadership (team captaincy, role in motivating teammates, off-field influence), and 20% to academics (GPA, class rank, school attendance). The panel of judges meets in early November to review film, stats, and academic records, engaging in lively debates to select the two finalists per classification. This year’s panel included former Titans linebacker Keith Bulluck, who emphasized the importance of character in the selection process. “Stats tell part of the story, but we want players who lift their teams up—who show up early to practice, help younger teammates, and take pride in their schoolwork,” Bulluck said. “These finalists aren’t just great players—they’re great role models.” Award Finalists Announced for Tennessee Titans Mr. Football thus is the result of a thorough process that honors both athletic and personal excellence, ensuring the award’s legacy of credibility.

The Tennessee Titans play a central role in supporting the Mr. Football award, using their platform to elevate high school football and celebrate young athletes— a commitment that makes Award Finalists Announced for Tennessee Titans Mr. Football more than just a recognition. Beyond funding the award, the Titans host a finalists’ banquet in Nashville each December, where players and their families are treated to a night of recognition, with Titans players and coaches in attendance to share advice and stories. This year, Titans quarterback Trevor Lawrence and head coach Doug Pederson will serve as keynote speakers, offering insights into their own high school careers and the importance of perseverance. The Titans also provide each finalist with a custom jersey, a scholarship opportunity (up to $5,000 for the winner), and a tour of Nissan Stadium, where they get to step onto the field and experience an NFL locker room. “We see the Mr. Football award as an investment in Tennessee’s future,” said Titans president Burke Nihill. “These young athletes are the next generation of leaders—whether they play football in college or pursue other careers—and we’re proud to support them. Celebrating their success is part of our mission to give back to the communities that support us.” The Tennessee Titans’ involvement transforms the award from a trophy into a life-changing experience, inspiring finalists to continue striving for excellence. Award Finalists Announced for Tennessee Titans Mr. Football thus reflects the Titans’ dedication to fostering football culture and community in the state.

The Tennessee Titans Mr. Football finalists have already become local heroes, with their schools and communities rallying behind them in celebration of Award Finalists Announced for Tennessee Titans Mr. Football. At Memphis Central High School, students organized a “Jake Williams Day” after his finalist announcement, with pep rallies, signs, and a halftime recognition during a recent basketball game. In Knoxville, Fulton High School’s student section has added a “Lila Carter Chant” to their game-day routine, cheering her name whenever she makes a catch or scores a touchdown. Local businesses have also gotten involved: a Memphis restaurant is offering a “Marcus Green Burger” (topped with 28 toppings, one for each of his touchdowns), and a Brentwood bakery is selling “Elijah Thompson Sack Cookies” with green icing (his team’s color). Social media has also played a role, with fans using the hashtag #TitansMrFootball to share highlights of the finalists’ plays and congratulate them. “The support has been overwhelming,” said finalist Lila Carter. “To see my school and community rally around me like this means more than any award. It makes me proud to represent Knoxville and show other girls that they can play football too.” The Tennessee Titans’ Mr. Football award thus has become a unifying force for communities across the state, bringing people together to celebrate young talent. Award Finalists Announced for Tennessee Titans Mr. Football thus is a testament to the power of high school sports to inspire and connect communities.

Looking ahead, the announcement of finalists sets the stage for the highly anticipated award ceremony in December— a moment that will cap off months of hard work and make Award Finalists Announced for Tennessee Titans Mr. Football a milestone in these athletes’ lives. The winners will be announced live at the banquet, with each classification winner receiving the iconic Mr. Football trophy (a 2-foot-tall bronze statue of a football player) and the scholarship prize. For many finalists, the award is more than a recognition of their senior season—it’s a validation of years of early mornings, weight room sessions, and sacrifices. Even for those who don’t win, the experience of being a finalist opens doors: college recruiters closely follow the award, and several past finalists have gone on to play Division I football, including current Titans defensive end Josh Allen (a 2017 finalist from Firestone High School in Akron, Ohio, who moved to Tennessee for his senior year). “Being a Mr. Football finalist changed my life,” Allen said. “It put me on the radar of college coaches, and it gave me the confidence to keep pursuing my dream of playing in the NFL. I’m excited to meet this year’s finalists and tell them that this is just the beginning.” Award Finalists Announced for Tennessee Titans Mr. Football thus is more than a momentary celebration—it’s a launching pad for young athletes, setting them up for success both on and off the field. As the December ceremony approaches, all eyes will be on these 12 finalists, each hoping to etch their name into Tennessee high school football history.