A true dual-threat quarterback, Kemp led his Nighthawks’ team to the 6A semifinals (a game they lost after eventual champion Watauga connected on a game-winning two-point conversion in a shootout) and was honored as the TAAC Six 5A/6A Player of the Year. He’s improved his accuracy and has a repeatable throwing motion that suggests there may be more untapped potential there.

Jaxson has had a strong offseason so far, as I was able to see him live at the CFI Carolinas MEGA Showcase back in May. With a 4.3 GPA and National Honor Society accolades, he can pretty much attend any college from an academic standpoint. That intelligence also shows on the field, as you can see with an 18-to-5 touchdown-to-interception ratio last season. Jaxson also showed some dual-threat ability last year with over 300 rushing yards on the ground.

Going back and watching the film from the showcase, I thought Jaxson was very smart with his drops, marrying with the route concepts he was throwing. That was a common problem with some of the quarterbacks in attendance. His throws were out on time and ball placement was strong, allowing his receivers to consistently make catches and plays on the football. Jaxson had a strong season last year and has performed well at camps already this offseason.

We’re looking for more consistency here from Kemp as the arm talent, footwork and flashes or high-level accuracy are all there. One of the best RPO decision-makers in the state, his game should seamlessly transition to the college level and he has two years to cut down on the wasted throws that kept his completion percentage low last season.

Kemp’s footwork really impresses me, especially on RPO concepts. He has a strong arm and while it can get wayward at times, overall his accuracy is solid. While he’s a decent runner, he’s best as a pocket passer and his poise under pressure is excellent. A strong junior season will put him in position to be among the top quarterbacks in the state.