McDonald, a four-year starter who was moved from wide receiver to quarterback this season, had a rushing TD and passed for a touchdown as Winnacunnet remained unbeaten in Division I with a 13-3 victory over Exeter. He also intercepted two passes and forced a fumble. McDonald capped a 19-play drive on Winnacunnet’s opening possession with a 1-yard touchdown run, and completed an 8-yard touchdown pass to Henry Denio to help extend Winnacunnet’s lead with 7:04 to play. The TD pass was set up by McDonald’s interception, which gave the Warriors the ball on the Exeter 20-yard line. Exeter leads the series 63-33-2.

McDonald finished third in the poll with 667 votes, but it should come as no surprise if he ends up as the most valuable player in the state. Here’s why: After a standout junior season as a wide receiver/defensive back, McDonald will move to quarterback this season. He was laser-timed at 4.52 seconds for the 40-yard dash at the New Hampshire Football Showcase, and will give Winnacunnet a dangerous running threat in its Veer offense. McDonald averaged 17.1 yards per catch last season, when he had 37 receptions for 633 yards and six touchdowns. He also recorded 42 tackles and intercepted six passes.

Speed alone makes McDonald one of the most dangerous players in the Granite State. He ran a 4.52 laser-timed 40-yard dash at the New Hampshire Showcase. He had 37 receptions for 633 yards (17.1 yards per catch) and six touchdowns as a junior. McDonald is equally as good as a defensive back. He recorded 42 tackles, inlcuding one sack, and had six interceptions last season. He also broke up 13 other passes. McDonald, who also plays varsity basketball, should be among the top two-way players in the state in 2026.

From the 2024 season into 2025, Jaxon showed encouraging growth in how his athleticism translated to game situations on both sides of the ball. As a wide receiver, his ability to consistently high-point the football stood out, highlighting strong timing, vertical explosiveness, and natural coordination. His hand-eye coordination is a clear strength, as he routinely makes difficult catches—including one-handed grabs—look smooth and controlled. His fluid movement patterns allow him to adjust naturally to the ball in the air.

In 2025, Jaxon continued to develop as a more confident and dynamic playmaker. He played with improved body control and awareness, showing comfort attacking the football in contested situations. His athletic versatility also carried over defensively, where his instincts and ball skills added value in the secondary. As he continues to refine route detail and top-end speed, his physical tools and coordination provide a strong foundation for continued growth, making him a rising talent with significant upside.

Player Report: Jaxon McDonald Jaxon McDonald 6'0" | 160 lbs | WR/DB Winnacunnet | 2027 State New E , 2027
After reviewing Jaxon McDonald Jaxon McDonald 6'0" | 160 lbs | WR/DB Winnacunnet | 2027 State New E from Winnacunnet NH, highlight film from his X post on November 5, 2025, it’s clear that he is a rising talent to watch. Standing at 6’0 and weighing 160 pounds, Jaxon demonstrates impressive athleticism as both a wide receiver and a defensive back for Winnacunnet High School.
His ability to high-point the ball consistently showcases his natural athletic coordination and skill set. Jaxon displays exceptional hand-eye coordination, making one-handed catches appear effortless—an impressive trait for any receiver. His fluidity on the field suggests a promising future, and while we look forward to watching more recent film to evaluate his route-running and speed, it’s evident that he’s a dynamic athlete with a bright future in the sport.
As a two-sport athlete excelling in both football and basketball, Jaxon’s versatility and work ethic point to strong potential for NCAA-level competition. We are excited to follow his progress and encourage coaches to keep an eye on this emerging talent!