Robert Edwards had a breakout junior campaign for the Emmaus High School football team last fall.

The Green Hornets had a successful 2024 season, finishing 10-3 overall and playing in the District 11 6A championship game. Edwards was a big reason behind the success of the program.

The defensive lineman was a force in the backfield, finishing with 92 overall tackles, 64 of which were of the solo variety. He also had 23 tackles for loss, six sacks, an interception he returned for a touchdown and a fumble recovery.

His defensive line coach, Pete Verile, had high praise for his junior standout and was excited for the postseason recognition for his star pupil, which was well-deserved.

“Rob was the heart and soul of our defensive line,” said Verile. “He’s a big kid with great hands and feet. He’s strong so he’s an excellent run stopper, but he’s athletic for his six-foot, 290-pound frame. We moved him around a ton, playing every spot on the line. His numbers speak for themselves for how valuable he was for us, and I’m lucky to get to coach such a great talent.”

Edwards helped his team hold opponents to 11 points per game and post two shut outs, including one in the regular season finale against Parkland. He was voted the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference’s Defensive Most Valuable Player.

“He was the defensive MVP of the league, so to earn all-state was the icing on the cake and well-deserved, especially as a junior,” Verile said. “I am happy to have him back next year and I know he’s hungry to get going and to get even better and improve on an impressive junior season. I believe we are just scratching the surface with his potential and the best is yet to come.”

Edwards and Emmaus will be looking to get over the top and finish the job of winning district goal next season. He will be joined by some other talented underclassmen returners.