The second safety in an outstanding tandem between he and Carson Mahoney Carson Mahoney 6'2" | 190 lbs | DB Xavier | 2028 State IA at Xavier, Max Dougherty Max Dougherty 6'5" | 180 lbs | DB/QB Xavier | 2028 State IA hasn’t received the exact same attention as his 2028 compatriot in the defensive backfield for the Saints. He’s worthy of a similar recruitment, though.

Another tall, hard-hitting and rangey safety, Dougherty is excellent in backend help in the passing game, while also serving in run support. He and Mahoney have a similar skillset with different body types, making them difficult to game plan for, and nearly impossible to throw the ball over the middle against. That, and if an opponent wanted to run the ball, dropping Dougherty and Mahoney in the box isn’t smart, as the two can run-blitz, get after the quarterback, or drop in coverage to dupe a QB into an interception.

Dougherty finished last season with 23 tackles, an interception and two pass-breakups (PBUs).

Playing next to Mahoney often in the Saints’ secondary was Max Dougherty Max Dougherty 6'5" | 180 lbs | DB/QB Xavier | 2028 State IA , who also made a prevalent impact for the defense that allowed just 10.9 PPG to their opponents. Dougherty recorded 23 tackles, 2 PBUs, and 1 INT. While he played more of a Strong Safety role, Dougherty was a flexible weapon who could line up both in the box, as a deep 1/2 field defender, and as an apex defender lined up man-to-man with the slot receiver. Dougherty shows great ball skills in pass coverage, flashing an impressive range in knocking away passes, and he’s a strong run defender who can cover both perimeters and shows good technique on his tackles. Dougherty’s athleticism is impressive for his age, and he’s also flashed as a top baseball prospect for Xavier. Alongside with Mahoney, these two could arguably become the best Safety tandem in Iowa to watch out for over the next 2 seasons.

Breaking into the lineup at Xavier can be challenging. The Saints are perennially one of the state’s top programs at winning and producing talent for the next level. That Dougherty found a way to contribute to an undefeated state championship team as a sophomore in 2025 leads one to take notice. First, Doughtery is a four-sport athlete with quick-twitch characteristics. His projectable frame is capable of adding good weight and strength without the loss of speed and agility, giving him a sizable ceiling with two prep seasons to go. He reports a 6-5 wingspan. It gives him potential to develop at multiple positions. The possibilities are apparent when watching his 10th-grade highlight. video. Dougherty shows smooth footwork and quick change of direction as a safety. Those traits would play up even more if his projectable frame opens up the linebacker spot. Buy stock here.