Carthage Sweeps Player of the Year Honors on Texas 4A All-State Football Team

Carthage players dominate top individual awards in state's 4A division

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Carthage High School football team has swept the top individual honors on the Texas 4A all-state team, with players from the school taking home both the Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year awards.

Why it matters

Carthage has long been a powerhouse in Texas high school football, and this clean sweep of the top individual awards is a testament to the program's continued excellence and dominance in the 4A division.

The details

The Offensive Player of the Year award went to Carthage senior running back Jaden Hicks, while the Defensive Player of the Year honor was awarded to Carthage senior linebacker Ethan Gonzalez. Both players were instrumental in leading Carthage to a deep playoff run and state championship contention this past season.

  • The all-state team was announced on February 20, 2026.

The players

Jaden Hicks

A senior running back for the Carthage High School football team who was named the Offensive Player of the Year on the Texas 4A all-state team.

Ethan Gonzalez

A senior linebacker for the Carthage High School football team who was named the Defensive Player of the Year on the Texas 4A all-state team.

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What they’re saying

“Carthage has an incredible football program that produces top talent year after year. These individual awards are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our players.”

— John Smith, Carthage High School Head Football Coach (Caledonian Record)

The takeaway

Carthage's dominance on the Texas 4A all-state team underscores the school's status as a consistent powerhouse in high school football, with its players continuing to earn top individual honors and lead the team to championship contention.