Gunner Edwards Gunner Edwards 5'11" | 165 lbs | QB/DB Wilton | 2027 State IA took over as Wilton’s new starter in 2025 after Drew Keith’s graduation, and while he wasn’t perfect, he was able to maintain the Beavers’ high standing they’ve obtained in the 2A conference over the last few seasons. Edwards threw for 1873 yards, 17 TDs, and 14 INTs while rushing for 452 yards (4.2 YPC) and 5 TDs. A productive QB who isn’t afraid of taking chances down the field, Edwards flashed with several gutsy throws on his tape, making some impressive throws through tight windows down the middle and through the seams that created plenty of big plays down the field. Contributing to a run-offense that finished with over 2000+ rushing yards, Edwards is a solid scrambler who can also create big plays with his legs, proving more than capable scampering out of the pocket and has sneaky speed as an open-field runner. Edwards can work more on his consistency as a passer, but his aggression at QB often yielded big results for the Beavers, and he will look to maintain those results in 2026.

There are always a collection of student-athletes at the state championships in the UNI-Dome that outperform our expectations. It’s important to say “our” expectations compared to “their.” They’re confident, poised and impactful. Edwards fits that description. He lined up behind center when Wilton reached the semifinals after road wins at West Branch and PCM. He completed 57.4 percent of his passes for 1,873 yards and 17 touchdowns. Edwards rushed for 452 yards (4.2 YPC) and five scores, and added a two-point conversion. The junior impressed me with his well-rounded skill set and toughness. He handled pressure well while under siege against eventual state champion Kuemper Catholic in the final four. Edwards threw for 199 yards and a touchdown. He also contributed 51 yards on the ground. Edwards is a dual-threat signal caller and a good athlete, which would keep open the door for a position switch on the next level if a staff saw it as a better path to his ceiling.