Maki’s toughness helps him play a lot bigger and more effectively than his physical stature might otherwise indicate. Watching him operate during an Oct. 10, 2025 game at Clear Creek Amana, Maki looked like a guy more prepared and playing at a faster tempo than most of the others on the field. Maki does well in diagnosing what he sees before the ball is snapped and is fast to it once the play is underway. He’s a sound tackler and sticks his nose in when supporting the run. Maki shows fluid hip movements in coverage and has a good feel for using his hands to his advantage. There are plenty of colleges out there that would benefit from his presence on defense and special teams.

Like Caddell, Dawson Maki Dawson Maki 5'11" | 160 lbs | DB Newton | 2026 State IA played and was important to Newton’s defensive efforts in 2024, posting 19 tackles and two tackles-for-loss (TFLs).

This season, he ranks second in Class 4A in interceptions with four, has posted two pass-breakups (PBUs) and has already surpassed his tackling numbers from his sophomore campaign, putting together 31 total tackles (29 solo) to go with two TFLs.

In fact, one of Maki’s teammates, Ali Yahia could have very well made this list, as the senior went from not registering a single stat in 2024 to now being tied for second in the state with Maki for total interceptions with four. Yahia has also posted 13 tackles.

Maki played an important role for a Cardinal team that reached the postseason a year ago. He’s raised that level of play and became even more impactful as a senior in 2025. A well-rounded member of the secondary, Maki has collected 28.5 tackles, 27 of which are of the solo variety. He leads Newton with three interceptions and has been credited with a pass defended. Viewing his clips from this season on his Hudl page, Maki flashes traits that should make him attractive to colleges. One play has him following a receiver across the formation and reading what’s coming before the snap, which led to a pick. Maki flips his hips well in coverage and can run.