Brayton Carter’s passion for football runs deep, rooted in a family that lives and breathes the sport. “Growing up, I played all three sports—football, basketball, and baseball,” Brayton, a sophomore at Stilwell High School, shared. But it was football that stole his heart early on. Inspired by watching games with his dad, especially those featuring Tom Brady, football became more than just a game for him; it became a way of life.
“My dad really inspired me to play football. At a young age, all we would watch is football and talk about it,” Brayton recalled. His biggest influence? Julian Edelman, who, despite being the 232nd pick, always knew he could be great. That underdog spirit drives Brayton’s own work ethic.
On the field, Brayton takes on multiple roles, playing offense, defense, and special teams. “My role is one of the main pieces,” he said, emphasizing the importance of being mentally and physically prepared to play the entire game. His intense preparation includes twice-daily workouts, thanks to his dad, a trainer at 55 Factory in Stilwell. “I work out two times a day… my first workout is at school, and right after practice, I go workout again,” he explained, detailing the dedication he puts into staying in peak condition.
A standout moment for Brayton this season came in a game against Stigler, where he had an astonishing 241 receiving yards on 16 catches, including a 40-yard Hail Mary over three defenders right before halftime. “That was my best game,” he said proudly.
Looking ahead, Brayton dreams of playing college football and pursuing a career as an orthopedic surgeon, hoping one day to take over his dad’s gym. His advice to younger players? “Set goals and work hard to achieve those goals; believe in yourself and never be satisfied.”
For Brayton, community support means everything. “They believe in us and know we can change this program, and that means everything,” he said, drawing confidence from the small-town backing that pushes him and his teammates to aim higher. “They always let you know how good you played and are never discouraged.”
