Miami Commit Jackson Cantwell Makes History Winning 2025 Gatorade Football POY Award

Jackson Cantwell is headed to Miami where he will be expected to help anchor the offensive line for years to come.

But only after securing his spot as part of the Gatorade National Football Player of the Year legacy.

Hall of Famer Joe Thomas surprised Cantwell on Wednesday and awarded him the 2025-26 Gatorade National Football Player of the Year award, which is given to someone who represents excellence in sport, academics and serving the community.

Cantwell joined a long list of notable former Gatorade Player of the Year winners, including Peyton Manning, Paige Bueckers, Cooper Flagg, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Jayson Tatum, Emmitt Smith, Mallory Swanson and more.

His victory comes after he was named one of the three finalists Friday. 

Tyler Atkinson, who is a linebacker joining the Texas Longhorns as part of their 2026 class, and Landen Williams-Callis, who is a highly-regarded running back in the 2027 class, were also finalists for the award.

But it was Cantwell who won it as a 5-star prospect and the No. 4 overall player and No. 1 offensive tackle in the 2026 recruiting class, per 247Sports' composite rankings. 

Gabe Brooks of 247Sports provided a scouting report for Cantwell and called him a "future professional mover of people. High-major prospect who should become a quality starter with the overall physical and athletic profile that points to significant long-term NFL Draft potential."

It is fitting, then, that Thomas was the one to give him the award.

After all, the Hall of Famer is one of the best offensive linemen in recent NFL history with a resume that included six First-Team All-Pro selections and 10 Pro Bowl nods.

The No. 3 overall pick of the 2007 NFL draft was an anchor for the Cleveland Browns throughout his career and someone who was also known for giving back to the community off the field.

Perhaps Cantwell will one day follow his lead as a star offensive tackle in the NFL as a career that now includes the Gatorade National Football Player of the Year continues.