Christian “Rook” Maxie
Christian “Rook” Maxie rushed for 429 yards and three touchdowns in C.E. Byrd’s season opener. Yet the productive senior running back remains without a college offer.
Maxie needed 40 carries to produce his record-setting total in Byrd’s 44-37 loss to Ouachita. The 5-foot-11, 185-pound standout did not realize how dominant he had been until after the game.
“I didn’t realize how well I had done until after the game,” Maxie said. “Honestly, I thought I had rushed for fewer yards because it felt too easy.”
The individual accomplishment was difficult for Maxie to celebrate because Byrd did not secure the victory.
“It felt good, and I’m glad I was able to do it, but it doesn’t mean as much to me because we didn’t come out with the win,” he said. “I feel like I let my brothers down.”
The performance continued the production Maxie delivered throughout 2025, when he rushed for 1,553 yards and 21 touchdowns while averaging 9.65 yards per carry.
Maxie also possesses the athletic measurements college programs look for at running back. He has recorded a 4.45-second 40-yard dash and a 35-inch vertical jump.
“My vision and ability to break tackles improved the most,” Maxie said.
His opening performance generated additional recruiting attention, with several colleges contacting him after the game. Maxie now hopes that interest leads to his first scholarship opportunity.
“I think the game showed coaches that they should offer me,” he said. “I feel like I’m overlooked, but I have proven time and time again that I’m the best in the state.”
Maxie’s personal goals are to earn a Division I opportunity, rush for 2,500 yards and score 35 touchdowns this season. However, he remains focused on helping Byrd become a more consistent team.
“Our team really just needs to stay consistent and get after them on every play,” Maxie said.
With consecutive seasons of high-level production, impressive testing numbers and a 429-yard performance to open the year, Maxie believes he can help a college program win.
“My first college offer would mean a lot,” he said. “I just want to play football, and wherever I go, I’m going to make that team better.”
