The high school football season is right around the corner as practice officially begins on July 31. To watch for the 2023 season.Amare Caines, Swansboro: The senior wide receiver was first-team all-area last year after leading his team with 28 receptions for 426 yards and three touchdowns.
Michael Carlock, Jacksonville: The senior wide receiver was first-team all-area after 26 catches for 610 yards and five touchdowns.Jayden Davis, Southwest: The senior running back looks to take the next step in his productivity after posting 265 yards and a touchdown on 42 carries.
Darold Dorsey, Southwest: The senior running back was second-team all-area after rushing for 1,080 yards and 11 touchdowns on 150 carries.Damari Gantt, Jacksonville: The senior running back was a first-team all-area kick returner after averaging 35.1 yards per return with nine returns and two touchdowns in one game. He looks to improve his role in the backfield
Damarius Hester, White Oak: The senior was a first-team all-area athlete after starting at quarterback last year and ran for 1,182 yards and 11 touchdowns on 136 carries and threw for 455 yards and four touchdowns. This season, he will line up at running back and wide receiver in addition to some quarterback, but he will also play some defense.
Damon June, Jacksonville: The junior was first-team all-area after rushing for 1,108 yards and 18 touchdowns on 146 carries.ekhi Mack, Richlands: The senior running back looks to make an even bigger impact this season after being the leading rusher last year.
Josh Steffy, Croatan: The senior running back looks to be next in line to be the main ball carrier after rushing for 434 yards and three touchdowns.Andon Wilges, Richlands: The senior was second-team all-area after 22 catches for 463 yards and two touchdowns.