Keon Johnson Named 2025 All-Tidewater Player of the Year

UPDATE: The 2025 All-Tidewater Football team has just been announced, highlighting standout athletes from across the region. Keon Johnson, a senior running back and linebacker from Lake Taylor, has been named the All-Tidewater Player of the Year for his record-breaking season.

Johnson’s performance was nothing short of spectacular; he racked up an astonishing 2,319 rushing yards and 42 touchdowns, setting new single-season records for South Hampton Roads. His contributions were pivotal in leading the Titans to the Class 3 state title, where he rushed for 358 yards and five touchdowns during the state tournament. Additionally, Johnson was recognized for his defensive prowess, finishing the season with over 100 tackles, 23 sacks, and three interceptions.

In the quarterback spotlight, Donovan “Domo” Everette from Maury made headlines in his inaugural year as a starter. He guided the Commodores to a Class 5 state title with an impressive offensive output, averaging 50.4 points per game. Everette ended the season with 3,513 passing yards, 46 touchdowns, and 533 rushing yards, marking a total of 4,047 yards — the sixth best in South Hampton Roads history.

Also making waves is Lonnie Andrews, the junior quarterback from Oscar Smith, who has led his team to back-to-back Class 6 state titles. He completed 181 of 306 passes for 3,291 yards and 43 touchdowns, earning him a spot on the first-team all-state.

The standout players don’t stop there. Tayshawn Branche from Maury rushed for 2,255 yards and scored 28 touchdowns, while Amari Pryear from Bethel also shone brightly with 2,035 rushing yards and 37 touchdowns.

The All-Tidewater selections reflect a season filled with remarkable achievements and intense competition. The full list includes several key players across various positions, showcasing the depth of talent in the region. Players like Travis Johnson (Oscar Smith), with 56 receptions for 1,258 yards, and Jahvon Wiggins (Maury), who tallied 1,590 total yards and 15 touchdowns, further emphasize the high level of play witnessed this season.

As the football landscape continues to evolve, the impacts of these athletes will resonate far beyond the field. College commitments are already making headlines, with numerous players signing with prestigious programs, including Michigan and Virginia Tech.

Looking ahead, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how these players transition to the next level. The 2025 All-Tidewater Football team’s announcement is not just a celebration of local talent but also a precursor to the bright futures awaiting these young athletes. As the season wraps up, the excitement for what lies ahead continues to build.