2025 Preseason Preview – Albany High School

Albany enters the 2025 season with a proud tradition and a tall task. The Huskies are coming off a trip to the state semifinals, their first since 2015, and another section title. With 22 state appearances and a long-established winning culture, Albany is ready for another run.    Still, the challenge this fall is real. The Huskies graduated eight starters on each side of the ball, including several playmakers who helped power last season's run. The roster may not be as proven, but the talent is there. Albany features a strong foundation in the trenches, a backfield loaded with athletes, and a dual-threat quarterback ready to lead.    Albany returns three starters on the offensive line and a stable of backs who bring different skill sets, plus a defense ready to fight up front and play fast.    Here are some players to watch for:   Connor Plumski – FB/LB   Plumski is the tone-setter in Albany's backfield and a force at the point of attack. A state runner-up in wrestling at 189 pounds as a sophomore, Plumski brings elite toughness, explosiveness, and leverage to the fullback position. He will be a key to establishing the run game and setting the edge on defense. He projects as a two-way workhorse and is already attracting college interest in both sports.   Carter Fischer – RB/DB   Fischer enters the season as one of Albany's most dynamic offensive weapons. An explosive back with verified 4.6 laser-timed speed, he's added weight and maturity to his game. Coaches say he has improved his patience as a runner and is beginning to let plays develop rather than outrunning his blocks. His ability to hit top speed in a flash makes him a threat to score from anywhere.   Brady Rueter – RB/DB   Rueter missed most of last season due to illness but is healthy and ready to contribute. He is expected to line up at Albany's wing position — a hybrid slot back and runner in the wing-T system. Shifty and natural with the ball in his hands, Rueter will be a valuable outlet in both traditional and spread looks.   Judah Allen – WR/RB   Allen is one of the top pass-catching athletes on the roster and may provide a spark in the short and intermediate passing game. His versatility allows Albany to move him around and get him involved in motion and misdirection.   Cohen Habben – QB   Habben is taking over the quarterback role after serving as the backup last season. A 6'2" junior with 4.8 speed and three-sport athleticism, he brings mobility and energy to the position. Habben is a natural leader and an instinctive athlete. Albany may still be a run-heavy team, but Habben's presence gives them a chance to stretch defenses and run option-based concepts more effectively than in years past.   Offensive Line   Senior Jackson Mergen returns as a versatile, dependable lineman with college potential. After starting at center last year, he shifted to tackle midseason and held his own against top competition. Mergen showcases great footwork and strength at the point of attack. Senior Noah Ebensteiner (6'4", 215) brings length and leverage, while junior Brandon Hommen (6'1", 215) is emerging as a breakout performer with growing college attention.   Griffin Lange – WR/DE   At 6'5", Lange is a matchup problem. His size and hands make him a natural red zone target and a valuable piece when Albany opens up the offense. He could become a bigger piece of the aerial attack if the team leans more on play-action and boot concepts.   Jake Buttweiler – DE/TE   Buttweiler is the emotional leader of the defense. At 6'2", 220 pounds, he plays with relentless effort and physicality, setting the tone for the defensive front. He is a two-way standout who will make his presence felt in every phase of the game. Coaches rave about his work ethic and impact on the locker room.   Brady Evenson – LB/RB   Evenson returns as the starting Sam linebacker, bringing a strong blend of size, speed, and physicality. He consistently sets the edge against tight ends and is expected to be a focal point in Albany's defensive pressure packages. He will rotate at fullback with Plumski but should be fresh enough to maintain his defensive impact.   Noah Ebensteiner – DL/OL   Ebensteiner is a disruptor up front. At 6'4", he uses his length to collapse pockets and clog run lanes. He was a steady force on the interior last season and is expected to build on that performance as a senior. His presence will be vital against physical opponents.   Noah Davey – LB/TE   Davey is a physical, downhill linebacker who has stood out in the weight room. His strength and motor will help fill the void left by graduating seniors, and he is expected to rotate heavily or claim a starting role early in the season.   Nick Van Heel – TE/DE/LB   Van Heel is a name to know for the future. A 6'4" sophomore with elite size and athleticism, he is one of the most intriguing young players in the program. He may not be a full-time starter yet, but he is already drawing Division I buzz and could emerge as one of Minnesota's top 2027 prospects. A multi-sport athlete with highlight-reel dunks on the basketball court, Van Heel brings rare tools and unlimited upside

Albany enters the 2025 season with a proud tradition and a tall task. The Huskies are coming off a trip to the state semifinals, their first since 2015, and another section title. With 22 state appearances and a long-established winning culture, Albany is ready for another run.