Prior Rank: 347
New Rank: 85
Increase: +262

For as big of a leap as the aforementioned Barner made, I do not think an existing prospect climbed the rankings as much as TJ Valerio TJ Valerio 6'0" | 185 lbs | QB Toms River North | 2025 State NJ did. After at least two years of sitting behind the since-graduated, former two-time Gatorade State Player of the Year in Micah Ford, Valerio finally had his opportunity and boy did he shine. Valerio’s throws all seemed to be on the money – in terms of setting up his guys to run after the catch, preventing them from arm, and putting it in the spot where only they could make the play. Furthermore, Valerio moves in the pocket well, is a scrambling threat, but also delivers strikes when on the run. He has some power, too. We see him unafraid to run someone over in order to get the yardage he demands.

139-191, 2427 yards, 30 TD, 4 Int; 168 carries, 841 yards, 8 TD

14-0 team record
99.31 Strength Index
68.09 Opponents’ Strength Index
#1 seed in South, Group V
Group V State Champion

Best game: 14-20, 284 yards, 3 TD, 0 Int; 13 carries, 101 yards, 1 TD in 31-2 victory at Dowingtown East (PA)

Worst game: 7-9, 81 yards, 0 TD, 1 Int; 12 carries, 37 yards in 42-27 victory vs. Rancocas Valley during Sectional Final

TJ Valerio TJ Valerio 6'0" | 185 lbs | QB Toms River North | 2025 State NJ stepped into the spotlight this season and didn’t disappoint, leading Toms River North to a state championship while amassing over 2,100 passing yards and a slew of rushing touchdowns. Despite waiting his turn as a starter, Valerio made the most of his lone year of whole varsity experience, putting himself in contention for New Jersey Gridiron’s Player of the Year.

What makes Valerio unique is his ability to execute under pressure. He’s not just a quarterback who makes plays—he does so with poise and precision. In Toms River North’s offense, he showcased his dual-threat capabilities, consistently gashing defenses on the ground while delivering accurate throws downfield. His ability to keep the offense in rhythm and make throws on time has been a hallmark of his success.

At 6’1”, Valerio’s combination of calm under pressure and ability to create plays in both the passing and running game makes him a compelling prospect. He has no offers but has been taking visits, indicating that interest is starting to build. With the transfer portal reshuffling college rosters

Senior quarterback TJ Valerio TJ Valerio 6'0" | 185 lbs | QB Toms River North | 2025 State NJ put on a clinic in Toms River North’s Group 5 state championship win. Valerio executed quarterback power runs perfectly, consistently picking up crucial yards on the ground, showcasing his dual-threat ability. Through the air, he stayed composed, taking what the defense gave him and finishing with 13 completions for 159 yards and four touchdowns. His ability to play with poise, deliver in rhythm, and balance the offense was crucial for Toms River North’s dominant season. Valerio’s leadership and execution helped secure another state title for one of New Jersey’s premier programs.

TJ Valerio TJ Valerio 6'0" | 185 lbs | QB Toms River North | 2025 State NJ put up one of the most impressive games of the entire state semifinal weekend. In a powerful 27-10 win over Washington Twp., TJ did it all for Toms River North as he picked Washington Twp.’s defense apart with a 3 touchdown performance and 200 yards through the air. To go with the aerial assault, TJ used his legs to scamper for 53 yards as he continuously helped TRN move the ball down the field. TJ has played with poise and moxie all season long, delivering dimes downfield under duress and even on the run. As long as TJ can continue maneuvering away from danger in the backfield, the play is never dead and the odds of him making a play increases. A very strong armed QB as well, TJ hit his receivers for 26 and 50 yard touchdowns in the 2nd quarter to pull away from their opponent. Toms River North will look to extend their 18-game winning streak when they square off against Union City on Friday.

TJ Valerio TJ Valerio 6'0" | 185 lbs | QB Toms River North | 2025 State NJ from Tom’s River North is stepping into the spotlight this season. Standing at 6 feet and 185 pounds, TJ finally gets his chance to be the full-time starter for the state champion Mariners. Last season, we caught a glimpse of his potential during a game against Red Bank Catholic. TJ demonstrated his ability to push the ball downfield and added value on the ground with his legs.

While he may not replicate the ground game impact of Micah Ford, the current Stanford running back, TJ brings his unique strengths to the table. This season, he has the opportunity to introduce a new dimension to Tom’s River North’s offense. Historically, the Mariners have been a run-heavy team, relying on their imposing offensive line, which consistently features linemen over 6 feet tall.

With standout blockers like Rutgers commit Jalen Matthews and Stony Brook commit Justin Kaye leading the way, TJ has the protection he needs to expand the offense. His arm strength and mobility will allow Tom’s River North to diversify their attack, adding a wrinkle that could make them even more dangerous.

If TJ can effectively blend his passing abilities with the team’s powerful running game, Tom’s River North will be in prime position to defend their state championship. This is his moment to prove that he can lead the Mariners and bring a new identity to their offense.