Who's Next 252 Top Returning QB's

The “Who's Next 252: Top Returning QBs” list is loaded with some of the most dynamic and productive signal-callers in the state, featuring multiple Division I prospects and true game changers behind center. This group brings a blend of arm talent, poise, and playmaking ability that can take over games in a variety of ways—whether it's dissecting defenses from the pocket or extending plays with their legs. Many of these quarterbacks have already put up impressive numbers and shown leadership in big moments, and with another year of development, they're poised to elevate both their stock and their programs. Expect this 252 QB class to be a major storyline this upcoming season, as several names emerge as legitimate statewide standouts and recruiting priorities.    [player_tooltip player_id='2140877' first='Kiymani' last='Jones'] is a true dual-threat quarterback who brings dynamic playmaking ability every time he touches the field. With the ball in his hands, he's as skilled and dangerous as most running backs, showcasing vision, burst, and the ability to make defenders miss in space. He operates with a point guard mentality at the position—distributing the ball, creating opportunities, and taking over when needed. Jones accounted for over 1,100 passing yards and 13 touchdowns through the air, while adding just over 900 rushing yards and 8 scores on the ground. His versatility and playmaking instincts make him one of the most exciting quarterbacks to watch in the 252.     Joshua Cetnar put together a big-time junior season for Greene Central, showcasing his ability as a productive and efficient passer. He threw for nearly 1,500 yards and 23 touchdowns—numbers that really stand out heading into his senior year. Cetnar also added 358 rushing yards and 4 scores on the ground, showing he can extend plays and contribute with his legs when needed. With Greene Central losing some key offensive pieces to graduation, expect his rushing production to increase as he takes on an even bigger role. His experience, decision-making, and growing versatility make him a quarterback to watch in the 252 this upcoming season.     Junior QB Josiah Bennett is a key piece for a traditionally run-heavy Pasquotank County offense, bringing much-needed balance to the unit. While the system leans on the ground game, Bennett has proven he can make plays through the air and keep defenses honest. He accounted for 12 total touchdowns with just over 800 passing yards, showing efficiency and control within the offense. Heading into next season, with more experience and opportunity, it wouldn't be surprising to see his production take a major leap—potentially doubling his numbers as he continues to grow into a larger role.     [player_tooltip player_id='1854319' first='Zak' last='Ishman'] put together one of the most productive quarterback seasons in the entire state last year, regardless of region, and was just one game away from reaching the state championship. His ability to take over games and lead his team was on full display all season long. Ishman lit up defenses for over 3,200 passing yards and 36 touchdowns, consistently making big-time throws and elevating the play of everyone around him. He also added 6 more scores on the ground, showing he can make plays when things break down. With that kind of production and leadership, Ishman enters the next season as one of the premier quarterbacks to watch in North Carolina.     Rucker Nixon had a standout year stepping in as the guy at Hertford, making an immediate impact in a wide-open, fast-paced offense. He threw for over 1,800 yards and accounted for 23 total touchdowns, showing confidence, command, and the ability to consistently move the chains. His quick delivery and decision-making make him a perfect fit for the system, allowing the offense to stay in rhythm and keep defenses on their heels. With another year of experience and comfort in the scheme, Nixon is primed for an even bigger season and should continue to be one of the most productive quarterbacks in the 252.     Chase Davis of J.H. Rose put together a strong junior campaign and is trending way up heading into his senior season. He threw for 1,800 yards and 15 touchdowns last year, showing steady production and the ability to lead the offense. With the additions Rose has made this offseason, everything is lined up for Davis to take a major leap. Expect a more explosive unit around him and more opportunities to put up big numbers. At the pace he's capable of, it wouldn't be surprising to see him clear 20 touchdowns before homecoming—he's set up for a huge senior year in the 252.     [player_tooltip player_id='2142468' first='Sam' last='Finch'] had a true breakout junior season for Fike, emerging as one of the most dynamic playmakers in the 252. At 6'3, he brings great size to the position along with the ability to make plays all over the field. Finch threw for nearly 2,500 yards and 30 touchdowns, consistently stretching defenses and making big-time throws. He also added 342 rushing yards and 9 scores on the ground, showing his versatility and knack for finding the end zone. With that kind of production and another year of development ahead, Finch has a real shot at surpassing 40 total touchdowns next season and solidifying himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the state.     Kaleb put together a really solid first season taking over as a freshman at traditional powerhouse Havelock, and that's no small feat. Stepping into that kind of program early, he showed poise, confidence, and the ability to lead. He finished with just under 1,000 passing yards and 8 touchdowns, giving a glimpse of what's to come. Ranked as the #5 QB in his class, Kaleb has all the tools and upside to take a major leap. With a full year under his belt and continued development, he's primed for a breakout sophomore season and could quickly rise as one of the top young quarterbacks in the state.     [player_tooltip player_id='2104141' first='Kannon' last='McBride'] had an outstanding season, and it was clear every time he stepped on the field that he gave Croatan a real chance to win. I was actually there for his final game last season where he threw his 28th, 29th, and 30th touchdowns—an incredible way to cap off a big year. McBride is strong in the pocket, delivers the ball with confidence, and shows great command of the offense. Beyond the numbers, his leadership stands out, keeping his team poised and competitive in every matchup. With a quarterback like McBride under center, Croatan was always in the fight.     [player_tooltip player_id='2123427' first='Bryce' last='Cox'], a freshman phenom at North Pitt HS, put together an impressive first season at the varsity level and showed why his future is so bright. He accounted for 1,500 total yards and 10 touchdowns, making plays and gaining confidence as the year went on. What stood out even more was how he helped turn things around—after starting the season 0-5, North Pitt rallied to win 5 of their next 6 games, showing resilience and growth with Cox leading the way. The sky is truly the limit for him. With a stronger start next season, North Pitt has the pieces to make a deep playoff run—and with Cox at the helm, they could be a problem in the 252 for the next three years.     Devion Mayo put together a great junior season for Southwest Edgecombe, establishing himself as one of the most productive playmakers in the 252. He accounted for 28 total touchdowns and racked up 1,671 total yards, consistently finding ways to impact the game. His best performance came in his final win of the season, where he was nearly flawless—going 10-for-11 for over 200 yards and adding 3 total scores. That kind of efficiency and command is special. With momentum like that and another offseason to develop, Mayo is set up for an even bigger senior year and could be one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the region.

The “Who's Next 252: Top Returning QBs” list is loaded with some of the most dynamic and productive signal-callers in the state, featuring multiple Division I prospects and true game changers behind center. This group brings a blend of arm talent, poise, and playmaking ability that can take over games in a variety of ways—whether it's dissecting defenses from the pocket or extending plays with their legs. Many of these quarterbacks have already put up impressive numbers and shown leadership in big moments, and with another year of development, they're poised to elevate both their stock and their programs. Expect this 252 QB class to be a major storyline this upcoming season, as several names emerge as legitimate statewide standouts and recruiting priorities.