Rameriaze Edwards, Brookhaven High School

Senior, Defensive Back

A South Jones assistant coach was complimenting one of his peers from Brookhaven High on Friday after the Panthers had put the Braves away 28-10. They were everywhere, is what the SJ coach was saying about the red clad Panther defense.

One of those guys that seemed to be all over the field was senior defensive back Rameriaze Edwards, who had four tackles and two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown. For his outstanding efforts, Edwards has been named The Daily Leader Defensive Player of the Week.

On the touchdown return, Edwards jumped in front of a SJ pass and raced untouched 26 yards for the score. His other interception was equally impressive, as he leapt in front of a South Jones wide receiver, who then draped himself over Edward’s back as they fell forward. Edwards cradled the ball, took the contact and bounced off the ground to show the officials that he had maintained possession.

The 5-foot-8 Edwards has twice won individual state championships for the Panthers in powerlifting. His first title came in 2022 in the 114-pound class. Last year, lifting at 148-pounds, Edwards squatted 435 pounds, benched 185 pounds and deadlifted 540 pounds to win his second 5A championship. Brookhaven High hosts North Pike on Friday.