In a moment of triumph that solidifies his legacy in high school football, Texas quarterback KJ Lacey has been honored with Alabama’s prestigious Mr. Football Award. The accolade, awarded annually by the Alabama Sports Writers Association (ASWA), recognizes the most outstanding high school player in the state. Lacey now joins an elite group of past winners, including Julio Jones, Bo Nix, and Ryan Williams.
A Record-Breaking High School Career
Lacey’s senior season at Saraland High School was nothing short of spectacular. Despite missing time due to injury, he amassed 3,042 passing yards and 40 touchdowns, proving his resilience and dominance on the field. Over his high school career, he recorded an astonishing 10,985 passing yards, securing his place as the second all-time leading passer in Alabama state history.
A Firm Commitment to Texas
Having committed to the Texas Longhorns in June 2023, Lacey never wavered in his decision. His bond with the Texas coaching staff played a pivotal role in keeping him locked in.
“The relationships made all the difference,” Lacey shared in an interview. “Coach (AJ) Milwee, Coach Sark, the players, and the recruiting team make Texas feel like home. Their approach to coaching is demanding, and that’s exactly what I thrive on. They push quarterbacks to improve every day, and I love that.”
Early Start at Texas
Lacey is wasting no time adjusting to his new environment. Already enrolled at Texas, he has begun winter workouts alongside teammates, joining an exclusive quarterback room that includes Arch Manning and Trey Owens. As the Longhorns prepare for the future, the arrival of a proven winner like Lacey adds even more excitement to an already competitive roster.
With his high school chapter closed, all eyes are now on Lacey as he embarks on his next journey in Austin. If his past performances are any indication, Texas may have just landed a quarterback capable of leading them to championship glory.