AJ McLain AJ McLain 5'9" | 165 lbs | QB Ashbrook | 2027 State NC , the talented junior quarterback from Ashbrook, is coming off a strong season where he helped lead his team on a deep playoff run during his junior year. Known for his athleticism and playmaking ability, McClain has proven he can impact the game both inside and outside of the pocket.

This weekend he’ll be leading AYB in the tournament, giving him another opportunity to showcase his arm talent and passing ability against strong competition. Currently ranked as the #14 quarterback in the Class of 2027 by Prep Redzone NC, McClain continues to develop as a passer and competitor, and this event provides a great stage for him to further display his skills.

McClain is a dynamic, super-athletic quarterback who puts constant stress on defenses with his versatility. At 5’9”, 175 pounds, he’s compact, explosive, and dangerous in space—so much so that his athletic profile could translate to running back at the next level if needed. Last season, he accounted for over 1,500 total yards and 21 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. McClain thrives when plays break down, creates off-script opportunities, and brings a competitive edge that fuels Ashbrook’s offense. His athleticism and production make him a matchup problem, and his ceiling will continue to rise as he sharpens his decision-making and role moving forward.

AJ McLain AJ McLain 5'9" | 165 lbs | QB Ashbrook | 2027 State NC is a winner at the quarterback position; that’s the best thing I can say about him. I’ve written about him a couple of times recently, and he’s been the guy who’s been behind center in this program turnaround Ashbrook has had the past couple of years. He’s a dual-threat player, and he makes some excellent decisions with his reads in both the running game and the passing game. AJ plays multiple sports, and I like his leadership intangibles as well. He doesn’t make a lot of mistakes with the football, and he can make game-winning plays with the game on the line.

AJ I thought showed a lot at this showcase to validate his dual-threat abilities as a passer, more so than a runner. Everyone knew AJ could run, but his passing fundamentals have improved exponentially since the last time I saw him up close. The accuracy and force AJ put on the ball when throwing was impressive, and I’m excited to see what he can do for his senior season, to back up a 4th round playoff appearance for the Green Wave.

AJ is a young dual-threat quarterback who fits in well in the powerful Ashbrook offense. The Green Wave love to be physical and run downhill right at you with a number of backs and with AJ making some nice runs on designed quarterback runs and off of scrambles in the dropback game. AJ got better at throwing the ball as the season went on, and as long as he can take advantage of teams in the air when they put 8 in the box, Ashbrook is going to be successful once again next season under his leadership.

This young dual-threat quarterback had a great season in leading Ashbrook to a double-digit winning season and the 3rd round of the state playoffs, some places the Green Wave have not been in a long time. On the season, AJ threw for 1069 yards and 13 touchdowns while rushing for an additional 361 yards and 4 touchdowns in an offense with multiple good rushing options. I saw AJ live this season, and his running ability is special – he is most dangerous in passing situations now vs. designed runs, because in those scramble situations in the open field, with his speed and vision, AJ is able to make some off-schedule big plays on a routine basis. I’m excited to see him in the next two years as he continues to grow.