Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah and Arsenal midfielder Mariona Caldentey have been voted the men’s and women’s player of the year in English soccer for last season at the Professional Footballers’ Association awards.

The talent on the defensive side of the ball is undeniable for our area's high school football scene. Vote for the preseason DPOY now.

The 2025 Pueblo Chieftain Fan’s Choice Preseason Player of the Year ballot is here. Who do you think is the best football player in the Pueblo area?

Eugene Wilson III, Jamari Lyons and Aaron Gates—were named to 2025 Comeback Player of the Year Award watch list.

While Smith was probably in position to be a backup and special teams player this year, he might get some snaps at starting safety due to an injury to Nikai Martinez in fall camp. Armorion Smith was a 3-star safety out of high school, where he originally committed to Cincinnati before transferring to Michigan State.

Perhaps Jim Knowles was saving one of Penn State’s best for late August. Knowles, the Nittany Lions’ defensive coordinator, has dished out Defender of the Day honors on social media to a number of intriguing players in the preseason.

Who is the best high school football player in the Redding-area? Vote in the Record Searchlight's fan poll entering the 2025 season.

NFL Defensive Player of the Year Odds, Best Bets originally appeared on The Spun. (Editor’s note: This article is from The Spun by Athlon Sports’ 2025 Football Betting Guide — the perfect preseason reference companion for new bettors or sharps alike. Order your copy today online, or pick one up at retail racks and newsstands nationwide.)