2025 Preseason Preview –  Northfield High School

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Following a year of growth and grit, Northfield enters 2025 with a renewed sense of identity. The Raiders fought through inconsistency early last season. Still, they found momentum down the stretch, earning several key wins while also pushing top programs like Faribault and Rochester John Marshall. Despite falling short in the section semifinals, the team showed toughness and steady improvement week to week. With a returning core of experienced playmakers, particularly at the skill positions, Northfield is positioned to keep building this fall.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Here are some players to watch: </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Raiders are building their offense around speed, spacing, and physicality at the skill spots.  The offense is led by senior quarterback <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1669893' first='JT' last='Graupmann']</strong>, a tall, rangy athlete with strong arm talent and multi-position experience. Last season, Graupmann played receiver, safety, and eventually earned the starting quarterback role midway through the year. Now fully entrenched under center, he brings intelligence, leadership, and the ability to push the ball downfield. A three-sport athlete and competitor, Graupmann is the focal point of Northfield's offensive attack.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The receiver group is headlined by senior <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='400478' first='Kayden' last='Oakland']</strong> and junior <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1633454' first='Ben' last='Ims']</strong>, a pair of big-bodied perimeter threats with strong hands and route-running ability. At 6-foot-3, Imes emerged as a starter at X receiver last season and is expected to be a key red zone target. Oakland brings a similar size and catch radius, giving Graupmann multiple options to win outside the numbers. Slot receiver <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1670065' first='Julian' last='Vazquez']</strong> adds speed and shiftiness to the Raiders' skill group. Vasquez has the acceleration and lateral agility to threaten the edge on every snap.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Oakland, a senior edge rusher, committed to South Dakota State. At 6-foot-5 and 225 pounds, he brings size, length, and explosiveness that make him a constant problem for opposing linemen. The staff expects him to be a matchup nightmare this fall and a true difference-maker off the edge.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In the trenches, senior<strong> Cole Mathews</strong> returns as the starting center and anchor of the offensive line. At over 300 pounds, Matthews provides size, toughness, and reliability in the middle. He matches up well against opposing nose tackles and brings needed experience to a young unit. Senior <strong>Aidan Wallig</strong> is another projected starter up front who made significant offseason strides in the weight room. His development will be key to solidifying protection and creating lanes for the skill players to operate.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Junior linebacker <strong>Brody Jenson</strong> brings toughness and energy to the center of the defense. Nicknamed “Bulldog” for his physical style and relentless motor, Jenson earned a starting role as a sophomore last season. At 190 pounds, he is strong in the box, quick to diagnose plays, and sets the tone as a vocal and emotional leader.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Senior <strong>Henry Webber</strong> returns as a third-year starter on the defensive line. Webber plays both tackle and end depending on front alignment and is known for his non-stop effort and physical presence. His motor makes him disruptive against both the run and pass, and his experience will be crucial as the team rebuilds its front four. Another returning leader is senior safety <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1708011' first='Charlie' last='Becker']</strong>, who gained valuable experience as a sophomore starter in the section championship two seasons ago. Becker has grown into a confident, technically sound defender and is expected to provide stability in the back end. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Michael Stewart</strong> adds more experience and consistency to the defense. A two-year starter at safety, Stewart is known for his football IQ, steady play, and coachability. He started every game as a sophomore on the team that reached the section title game and remains one of the most dependable defenders on the roster.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->