Another season of high school football is beginning in the Lehigh Valley, featuring talent from both the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference and the Colonial-Schuylkill League. Coaches, players, and fans are preparing for games across the region, with several athletes already recognized as key players to watch during 2025.
Seniors make up most of this year’s standout group, although a number of juniors have also drawn attention for their on-field performances and leadership. The Morning Call has compiled a list of 30 notable athletes expected to play important roles on their respective teams this season.
Among those listed is Logan Anthony from Palmerton, who has committed to Rutgers and contributes as a lineman on both offense and defense. Matt Bodnar of Notre Dame-Green Pond stands out after throwing for more than 4,000 yards last year. Mason Bollinger at Northwestern Lehigh is cited for his versatility in multiple positions.
Other returning seniors include Manny Bolmer at Catasauqua, Austin Casal from Notre Dame-Green Pond, Jerek Cooper of Emmaus High School, Kurtis Crossman at Easton, Talon Dogmanits from Whitehall, Robert Edwards III at Emmaus—who was The Morning Call’s EPC defensive player of the year in 2024—and Peyton Falzone at Nazareth High School.
Notable juniors such as Lincoln Cook from Palisades and Lucas Croizier at Lehighton are also mentioned due to their impact in previous seasons. Players like Shane Hulmes (Northwestern Lehigh), Cole Ordway (Easton), Jake Pukszyn (Liberty), Dan Schiffert (Freedom), Jonathan Striba (Notre Dame-GP), Jon Adjin-Tettey (East Stroudsburg South), Sean Steckert (Southern Lehigh), and Cayden Vassa (Bethlehem Catholic) are highlighted for their contributions to team success.
Cole Lazorick represents Jim Thorpe as a senior quarterback and linebacker. Last season he threw for over 2,000 yards and ran for eight touchdowns while guiding his team into playoff contention.
These student-athletes not only bring statistics but also demonstrate leadership qualities that influence their teams’ development throughout the season. The mix includes both experienced seniors seeking another successful year and underclassmen building strong reputations early in their high school careers.
The upcoming weeks will test these players’ abilities against strong competition within the area’s leagues. Coaches and spectators will be watching closely as these athletes take on leading roles during games scheduled throughout the fall.
