CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte area has recognized some exceptional young talents in high school football this year. Among them, David Sanders and Aiden Harris stand out, both being linemen, a rare occurrence for the prestigious player of the year accolades. Sanders, an All-American offensive lineman from Providence Day, has made waves in the football community, being regarded as not just a top player locally but potentially the best high school football player in the country.
Sanders, who is a solid 6-foot-6 and weighs 290 pounds, has consistently been a dominant force on the field. He’s been ranked as the nation’s No. 1 recruit at offensive tackle and has committed to the Tennessee Volunteers. This marks his fourth consecutive selection to the All-Observer team, where he also made history by becoming the first offensive lineman to win the offensive player of the year award since the All-Observer team began in 1997.
This season, Sanders finished with a remarkable grading of 93 percent by a state finalist and was recognized as the Big South Conference Player of the Year. He wraps up his high school journey next month by playing in the Navy All-American Bowl in San Antonio.
Aiden Harris, another notable player, hails from Weddington High School and is making a name for himself as well. The defensive lineman, part of the class of 2026, stands among the top recruits in the nation. With over 20 Division I offers, including those from Auburn and Michigan, he has established himself as the No. 4 defensive lineman in the country. This season, Harris showcased his talent by racking up 82 tackles, 31 tackles for a loss, and 13.5 sacks.
On the coaching side, Sam Greiner of West Charlotte High School is also being honored for his outstanding leadership. He led the Lions to their first state championship in 29 years, a remarkable achievement that emphasizes a significant turnaround for the football program. Greiner has previously faced challenges but has now formed a winning team that went deep into the playoffs for three consecutive seasons.
The All-Observer team features a collection of the top football players from a region that spans multiple counties across North and South Carolina. Players earn their spot through nominations by their coaches and a selection panel. These honors represent not only individual success but also highlight the growing talent in Charlotte and the surrounding areas, promising an exciting future for high school football.
