One of the freakier playmakers in all of Class 2A, Jaxon Paulsrud Jaxon Paulsrud 6'1" | 180 lbs | ATH Cherokee Washington | 2026 State IA has been terrorizing opponents in Northwest Iowa for years on behalf of Cherokee Washington.

This season, Paulsrud ranks in top three in 2A in rushing yards (1,808), yards per carry (10.1), rushing touchdowns (29), all-purpose yards (2,205), offensive yards (2,623), total touchdowns (38) and solo tackles (66).

A two-way star for the Braves, Paulsrud is a one-man wrecking crew taking on the top team in 2A on Friday night in Kuemper Catholic. Cherokee will need everything they can get from the Air Force commit against the Knights if they’re going to pull the upset and head to the Dome.

Jaxon Paulsrud Jaxon Paulsrud 6'1" | 180 lbs | ATH Cherokee Washington | 2026 State IA has made excellent progress since making his transition as the starting QB in his sophomore season, and he’s solidified his spot as one of the most electrifying athletes to watch in this division. Paulsrud threw for 968 yards, 8 touchdowns, and 7 picks last season. He also ran for 866 yards and 9 touchdowns. Paulsrud is undeniably dangerous in the open-field, but he’s clearly making improvement as a passer, showing much better ball placement and touch on his throws. If Paulsrud continues to improve his skills as a pocket passer, there’s no telling how high the ceiling will be for him in his senior year.