Knox County, July 30, 2025

News Summary

Kalib Fortner, a standout player from Central High School, has been named Player of the Year on The Focus/Coaches’ All-Knox County team. His impressive season included significant stats, showcasing his versatility on the field as both a linebacker and tight end. With his commitment to the Army and being a finalist for the TSSAA Class 5A Mr. Football award, Fortner’s dedication to football shines. The article also highlights his brother, Liam Fortner, and other commendable players in the All-Knox County team.

Knoxville

Knox County’s rising football star, Kalib Fortner, has been named the Player of the Year on The Focus / Coaches’ 2020 All-Knox County team, following an impressive season that showcased his diverse skills on the field. The announcement highlights his dedication to the game and marks a significant achievement in his athletic career.

Fortner, a key player for Central High School, received six votes in the balloting for the award, placing him at the top of the nominees. His brother, Liam Fortner, a senior wide receiver and strong safety, finished as the runner-up with three votes. Both brothers have committed to signing with the Army, securing an exciting future beyond high school football.

The All-Knox County team saw strong competition, with other notable nominees including Isaiah Mattress from West and JD Dunn from CAK, both receiving two votes. De’Sean Bishop from Karns, Eli Purcell from Farragut, and Tommy Winton from Knoxville Catholic each garnered one vote in the mix.

Season Highlights

Kalib Fortner’s accomplishments this season are a testament to his talent and hard work. Not only has he enhanced his physique by adding 25 pounds of muscle during the offseason, but he also expanded his role on the team this year by playing as a tight end alongside his primary position as an outside linebacker.

The statistics for his season reflect his abilities and contributions to the team:

• 62 solo stops
• 23 assists
• 17 tackles for loss
• 5.5 sacks
• 6 hurries
• 2 interceptions with 67 return yards
• 6 pass break-ups
• 1 blocked punt
• 1 forced fumble
• 1 fumble recovery
• 10 receptions for 134 yards

With these achievements, Fortner has earned a spot as one of three finalists for the prestigious TSSAA Class 5A Mr. Football award, slated to be announced on Tuesday.

All-Knox County Team Features

The First Team Offense includes celebrated players from various schools in Knox County:

• OL: David Hull (South-Doyle, Sr.)
• OL: Kane Lewis (West, Sr.)
• OL: Jackson Bradley (Webb, Sr.)
• OL: Tavian Goodwin (South-Doyle, Jr.)
• OL: Cameron Stokes (Fulton, Jr.)
• TE: Terrell Brown (South-Doyle, Sr.)
• WR: Matt White (Farragut, Sr.)
• WR: Jayden Collins (Powell, Jr.)
• QB: Jordyn Potts (Powell, Soph.)
• RB: JD Dunn (CAK, Jr.)
• RB: De’Sean Bishop (Karns, Soph.)
• ATH: Liam Fortner (Central, Sr.)
• PK: Ewan Johnson (South-Doyle, Sr.)
• KR: Marcellus Jackson (Fulton, Soph.)

Kalib Fortner also shines on the First Team Defense as a linebacker, showcasing his versatility and skill on both sides of the ball.

Conclusion

Kalib Fortner’s recognition as the Player of the Year reflects his commitment, tenacity, and significant contributions to his team during the 2020 football season. His achievements not only celebrate individual excellence but also highlight the caliber of talent present in Knox County football.

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Additional Resources

• Knox Focus: Kalib Fortner – Player of the Year
• Wikipedia: Kalib Fortner
• Knox News: Tennessee vs. Kent State Simulation
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
• On3: Tennessee Vols Football Senior Day

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