One of my favorite prospects in this class, Carson Mahoney Carson Mahoney 6'2" | 190 lbs | DB Xavier | 2028 State IA is damn near everything a Division I program could use in a safety. Excellent in run-support as a hard-hitting safety that tackles like a linebacker, but also serving as a threat to intercept anything over the middle as a sideline-to-sideline safety in coverage, Mahoney provides the type of versatility defensively that coaches love to bring in via the high school ranks. Tough, long and rangey, Mahoney was critical in the Saints’ undefeated run to the 4A state title in 2025.

Posting 44 tackles, forcing a fumble, registering three pass-breakups (PBUs) and grabbing three interceptions, it’s easy to see why former Iowa safety and Xavier assistant, Quinn Schulte recommended keeping an eye on the talented sophomore.

Carson Mahoney Carson Mahoney 6'2" | 190 lbs | DB Xavier | 2028 State IA ‘s impact to the Saints’ defense was immense, immediately stepping in and playing a massive role toward Xavier’s undefeated run to the 4A title while already solidifying his place as the top DB prospect in Iowa for the class of 2028. Mahoney recorded 44 tackles (30 solo), 4 PBUs, 3 INTs, a FF, and a fumble recovery during his junior season. Mahoney often served as the Saints’ deep man down the middle of the field, excelling as a Free Safety with his great vision and instincts in coverage, shutting down passes over the middle and showing good timing in his jumps. Mahoney also played well against the run, showing great pursuit angles to be able to track the ball carrier across the other side of the field, and his hits showed devastating power to either break up passes or knock the ball out for a fumble. It will be interesting to see how Mahoney builds off such a strong campaign, which will be especially scary for his opponents knowing he still has two years to go.

(@carsonmahoney_)

Xavier’s Carson Mahoney Carson Mahoney 6'2" | 190 lbs | DB Xavier | 2028 State IA takes the title of DB1 in this latest update after a tremendous sophomore year that resulted in a 4A state championship. Mahoney ended the year with 44 tackles, three interceptions, and a fumble recovery. Mahoney’s ball-hawking in coverage and willingness to be physical against the run were crucial for the Saints’ defense. Carson does an excellent job of seeing the entire field from the safety position and quickly and effectively diagnoses the offense, getting to a spot where he can make a big play. Good job containing big plays over the top of the defense. He’s consistent at playing through a receiver’s hands to break up passes at the catch point. Against the run, Mahoney can fly to the ball with good angles and proper technique on his tackles to ensure the stop. Excellent “centerfield” type of safety who can cover massive chunks of field while having the “hit” power of a box safety.

I liked what I had seen from Mahoney on film before a live scouting opportunity during the state semifinal victory against Newton. Mahoney is a long-limbed athlete that could develop into a successful performer at a number of positions. I do like that he’s progressing as a defensive back. Mahoney runs well and can change directions quickly in covering receivers. His long arms and strides help him make up ground on balls in the air. Mahoney operates with physicality already and has a projectable frame that can fill out. He’d already piled up 29 solo tackles with three interceptions, two pass breakups and a forced fumble heading into the 4A title game against Pella. He’ll be an asset on special teams in college, too.

One of two young safeties on the back end of the Xavier defense — the other was Max Dougherty — pointed out to me pregame by former Iowa DB and Saints volunteer assistant, Quinn Schulte, Carson Mahoney Carson Mahoney 6'2" | 190 lbs | DB Xavier | 2028 State IA showed why on one particular play Friday evening.

Tabbed by Schulte as a safety “that could develop into something,” Mahoney put up five tackles, none bigger than when he shellacked a WSR ball-carrier part way through the second quarter on a short run to the left. Mahoney quickly diagnosed the play and then fired after the runner, leveling a pad-popping hit.

Mahoney has made his presence felt as a sophomore on the state’s top team in 4A. He’d recorded 15.0 tackles, 10 of which were of the solo variety, and two interceptions through the Saints’ first five games. The University of Iowa took notice, playing host to him on a recruiting visit for the Indiana game. A four-sport athlete, Mahoney brings speed and agility to the gridiron. His early-season highlights on Hudl also reveal a prospect with keen instincts for the secondary. He recognizes tendencies during pre-snap reads and reacts well to what the offense shows once the action is underway. Mahoney is one to watch moving forward.