"Grit and Glory: The Warrior Quarterback Built for Battle"

Max Johnson

@maxjohnson_3

IG: max_johnson4

6’3”, 200 lbs | Class of 2026

Apollo HS, KY

Max is the definition of a fierce, playmaking field general. An explosive quarterback with dynamic instincts and a creative flair that turns chaos into highlights. He’s a gamer in every sense, combining football intelligence, raw toughness, and unshakable poise. With a rocket arm and high IQ, he reads defenses in seconds and threads the needle with precision. But what separates Max from the rest isn’t just his stats or skill but his selflessness and warrior-like mentality. He’ll throw a dime on one play, then throw a block the next. He’s the guy willing to lower his shoulder to move the chains or protect a teammate. That relentless, do-it-all energy fuels his team and makes him the kind of leader every program craves.

This past season, Max racked up 2,119 total yards and 22 touchdowns with a 66% completion rate, earning him the ranking of the #2 passer among sophomores in Kentucky and a top 25 quarterback statewide. His biggest improvement came in reading defenses and surgically picking them apart. That film-room discipline and next-level awareness translated directly onto the field, where he consistently made the right reads and throws under pressure. Heading into the offseason, Max is focused on elevating every detail by working timing through 7v7 reps and preparing mentally and physically to dominate in 2025. What drives him is deeper than competition, he plays for the Lord, knowing his gifts come from above and striving to maximize them every snap. His achievements speak volumes with D1 offers from EKU, Tennessee Tech, and Gardner Webb as of April 2025, with more attention sure to follow.

Max brings more than just stats, he brings a presence. His ability to read coverages pre-snap, control tempo, and still create when the play breaks down makes him a nightmare to contain. He thrives in chaos, extends plays, and delivers strikes while making teammates around him look better. But it’s his toughness and leadership that makes him unforgettable. He plays like every rep is for something greater. Whether it’s diving for a first down or battling through adversity with a short memory and a strong mindset, Max is all in for his team, his coaches, and his faith.

Max is not just vocal but leads by example. Coaches can expect maximuml effort every time he steps on the field. Max is the type of quarterback who doesn’t need to talk about being a leader because it shows in the way he prepares, the way he fights for his teammates, and the way he commands a huddle. When asked what makes a school stand out, it’s all about relationships, offensive fit, and campus feel. He values culture and connection. That’s also reflected in the best advice he’s ever received: “You can play on every team, but that team might not want to play for you, so change it.”

Max is open-minded about his path to the next level, even considering the JUCO route to improve his edge and gain experience. He sees himself as a D1 quarterback, and the offers are already backing that belief. His advice to younger players is to find a mentor, someone you can lean on and learn from, and never stop growing on or off the field.

I assess that Max is a quarterback who combines vision, toughness, and creativity in a way few others do. His ability to lead, produce, and inspire makes him a highly valuable piece for any college program. Whether it’s a tempo-driven spread or a balanced pro-style system, his versatility and physicality will translate immediately at the next level.

Max is just scratching the surface. With his mind for the game, unmatched toughness, and intense motivation, he has the tools to become a program-changing quarterback. As he continues to evolve in every phase of his game, expect him to rise as one of the most complete and respected QBs in Kentucky and beyond. His potential is as powerful as his purpose, and he’s just getting started. Stay tuned.