Skip to main content

Tennessee commit Faizon Brandon cleared to return for playoffs

IMG_8358by: Andy Villamarzo13 hours agoAndy_Villamarzo
Faizon Brandon
Grimsley Whirlies quarterback Faizon Brandon. (Courtesy: Matt Ray / Volquest)

One of North Carolina high school football’s top quarterbacks is making his return just in time for the state playoffs.

According to a report by WFMY News 2, Grimsley five-star signal caller Faizon Brandon, a Tennessee commitment, has been cleared in time for the North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) Class 7A postseason.

Brandon hasn’t played since Grimsley’s season-opening 28-27 overtime win over West Charlotte back on Aug. 22 at Bank of America Stadium, home of the NFL’s Carolina Panthers.

Brandon returns to the North Carolina gridiron after leading Grimsley to the NCHSAA Class 4A state championship last season. As a junior, Brandon ended up completing 165 of 214 passes for 2,814 yards, 35 touchdowns and only two interceptions.

The Whirlies head into the state’s Class 7A playoffs with a perfect 10-0 mark and are currently awaiting who they will be facing in the North Carolina high school football playoffs. Grimsley is the No. 3 ranked team in the latest North Carolina Top 25 rankings via Massey.

“Accurate passer with the physical traits to make him one of the top quarterback prospects in the 2026 cycle. Measured around 6-foot-3.5, 200 pounds with a 9.25-inch hand before his senior season. Has the frame to add more good weight. Flashes a live arm, particularly in the camp setting, easily generating zip on his passes. Piloted his team to a state title as a junior, completing 77.1% of his passes for 2,814 yards (13.1 YPA) and 35 touchdowns against 2 interceptions. A good athlete with solid speed, running for 625 yards and nine touchdowns as a junior. Does a good job limiting mistakes and avoids putting the ball in harm’s way. Has the skill set to stress defenses with his arm and legs. An effective distributor in operating the quick passing game. Also played basketball. Plays in a conservative high school offense that offers few downfield passing opportunities. Will benefit from honing his footwork and lower body mechanics once he works with college coaches. One of the youngest top quarterbacks in the cycle, turning 17 years old in June before his senior season. Will need to continue gaining more useful passing reps, but has early-round upside if developed properly.” – Rivals Director of Scouting and Rankings Charles Power

How to Follow North Carolina High School Football

For North Carolina high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the Pine Tree State, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across Tar Heel State high school football, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the gridiron excitement across the state of North Carolina.