As we head into the final weeks of the TSSAA football regular season, the races for the state's top individual honor are beginning to come into view.
Every year the TSSAA names a Tennessee Titans Mr. Football in each classification, as well as a Kicker of the Year, based on performances throughout the regular season along with academics and character.
Initially five Mr. Football semifinalists will be named by the TSSAA in each classification, after fielding nominations from high school coaches and media members across the state. Then a committee of Tennessee high school sports writers will meet to determine the winners in each class.
For the remainder of the regular season, each week, The Tennessean will rank the top five players on our Mr. Football
watchlist for every classification, highlighting the athletes we believe have the best shot of claiming the award in December.
Stream Tennessee HS football games on NFHS Network
Here's The Tennessean's Mr. Football watchlist for Class 5A entering Week 9 of the TSSAA football season.
Ranking TSSAA Mr. Football prospects in Class 5A
1. Kaden Long
Knoxville Central | Senior | QB
Why chosen: A Mr. Football finalist last season, Long has completed 119-of-168 passes for 1,829 yards with 18 touchdowns and four interceptions, while rushing 88 times for 643 yards and eight touchdowns.
2. Tay Starks
Munford | Junior | RB
Why chosen: Starks was also named a Mr. Football finalist in 2025 and this season he's rushed 103 times for 741 yards and 14 touchdowns, helping lead Munford to a 6-1 record through eight weeks.
3. Cooper Newman
Sevier County | Senior | QB
Why chosen: The UConn commit was named Class 5A Mr. Football in 2025 and this season surpassed the TSSAA record for career passing touchdowns. He's led the Smoky Bears completing 115-of-170 passes for 1,703 yards with 29 touchdowns and two interceptions.
4. Joshua Kay
Powell | Junior | DE
Why chosen: Kay has had a monster season for the unbeaten Panthers, recording 48 tackles, 16 for a loss, 21 QB hurries, nine sacks and a forced fumble.
5. Miles Reding
Kirkwood | Senior | QB
Why chosen: The Cobras are 7-1 as Reding has completed 88-of-141 passes for 1,640 yards with 21 touchdowns and five interceptions. He's also rushed 59 times for 521 yards and nine touchdowns.
Do you have a player worthy of Mr. Football consideration? Email hcampbell@usatodayco.com with the athlete's information and season stats to be considered for our watchlist.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Ranking TSSAA Mr. Football Class 5A top candidates entering Week 9
Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change.
