Staff Sports Writer for VYPE Media-Houston
SHSU Alum (Class of 2022)
Multimedia Journalist
GAMES
RANKINGS
Fort Bend Marshall's Kaeden "KK" Johnson
HEADLINING THE HERD: Johnson's dual-threat capability could lift Buffs, Aggies alike
As Fort Bend Marshall gears up for what could be a defining season, all eyes are on senior Kaeden Johnson -- a competitor whose blend of talent and leadership has made him the heartbeat of the Buffs' program.
The dynamic three-star prospect, recently ranked No. 174 nationally in On3’s Rivals300 update, has firmly established himself as one of Texas’s most versatile and impactful high school athletes. Johnson, who announced his commitment to Texas A&M in June, enters his final campaign as the undisputed catalyst of the Buffs’ offense and a cornerstone for Coach James Williams and his staff.
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
While Johnson’s skillset allows him to line up virtually anywhere on the field, the senior will return under center as the starting quarterback this fall. In 2024, he threw for over 2,100 yards and 25 touchdowns, adding 571 rushing yards and six scores on the ground. His dual-threat capability earned him first-team, all-district honors and solidified his reputation as a genuine offensive weapon.
Teamwise, Marshall compiled a strong 10-3 record in their last campaign, finishing third in the ultra-competitive District 9-5A
Division II—trailing only State Champion Randle and Regional Finalist Iowa Colony. A third-round playoff loss to Iowa Colony ended the Buffs’ postseason run, but it also left the group hungry for more.
The stars of 2025-26 Fort Bend Marshall FootballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
With a seasoned leader like Johnson back at the helm, expectations around the Buffalos are understandably high. They’ll hope to channel the spirit of their 2019 squad, which reached the UIL State Final in Arlington, but this year’s path will require its own identity—one built on resilience, execution, and the leadership of players like Johnson.
For Johnson, this final chapter in his high school career isn’t just about chasing wins. It’s a chance to leave a lasting imprint on a program that has shaped him, while preparing for the next level. If his track record is any indication, both he—and Fort Bend Marshall—are ready for the moment.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE COMPLETE 2025 FORT BEND ISD FALL MAGAZINE
Alief Hastings' Xavier Obiero-Hyter
BUYING IN: Army-bound Obiero-Hyter seeing returns on his investment at Hastings
There's no flashy stat line for an offensive lineman. No highlight reel moment that captures the relentless footwork, the hand placement, the snap-to-whistle discipline. But for Hastings senior Xavier Obiero-Hyter, that quiet grind is exactly where he thrives.
Now entering his final season with the Bears, Obiero-Hyter stands as one of the program’s most reliable and respected leaders—earning first-team, all-district honors in 2024 and announcing his commitment to continue his career at Army-West Point this past June. His impact isn’t always loud, but it’s foundational.
The Bears finished 3–7 last season, just outside the playoff picture, in what was head coach Michael Carter’s first year at the helm. With a new district and new expectations, growing pains were inevitable—but Obiero-Hyter sees promise in how the team has responded.
2025-26 Alief Hastings FootballJamey Wright (VYPE)
“Sure, we had some ups and downs last year,” he said. “But that’s to be expected in a new district and with a new coach. So, it’s going to be really important that everyone buys into the culture that Coach Carter has brought, and drive home that belief. We have the skill, so all that’s needed for us to reach that next point is to get that next win.”
That veteran insight didn’t come easy. As a freshman and sophomore, Obiero-Hyter was thrown into the starting lineup following an injury on the offensive line—an early challenge that forced him to learn on the fly and sharpen his game quickly.
“Because of that, I feel that I’ve become more well-rounded and knowledgeable as a player up to this point,” he said.
A versatile interior lineman who can play either guard or center, Obiero-Hyter approaches his role with intention and self-discipline. He patterns his game after NFL All-Pro Tristan Wirfs (Tampa Bay), known for his technique, strength, and professionalism—traits Obiero-Hyter strives to emulate every time he steps on the field.
His journey into football wasn’t always clear-cut. Like many kids, he tried different sports before zeroing in on the one that sparked a deeper ambition.
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
“I began to really invest myself because I noticed that this could take me somewhere,” he said. “I’d go to workouts by myself, and work drills with trainers—anything that could help turn that dream into reality.”
At the heart of that drive is family.
“My Mom, my Dad, and my family as a whole— even though we didn’t have much, they’ve always been there and supported me through everything. Their impact on my life has helped lead me towards a scholarship, and I hope to return the favor someday.”
For Hastings to push into playoff contention in 2025, it’ll take buy-in, execution—and the kind of steady leadership Obiero-Hyter has subtly built his name on.