Iron Will, Friday Night Fire

11Conor Drnek

@conordrnek

6’2, 205 lbs, Class of 2027

Dover High School, NY

Two-Way Varsity Starter at LB and QB since freshman year

Conor is the ultimate two-way anchor, a fierce linebacker and quarterback who thrives on toughness, discipline, and sheer love for the game. He’s a fast, physical competitor who relishes contact on defense and embraces the chess match of leading an offense. With the ability to read coverages pre-snap, make quick audibles, and strike when opportunities open, he’s as dangerous with the ball in his hands as he is locking down opponents from the second level. A proven leader since his freshman year, Conor carries himself with a mix of grit, poise, and relentless energy that ignites his team on both sides of the ball.

What fuels his success is the resilience of his squad. As a young team built on freshmen and sophomores, they’ve battled through adversity and grown into a family, never backing down, no matter how tough the challenge. Conor thrives in that environment, drawing confidence from the brotherhood of his teammates, the leadership of upperclassmen, and a coaching staff that prepares them to the fullest. Every snap is a reflection of that preparation—fast, intense practices that translate into Friday night execution.

This season’s defining moment came in a smashmouth battle that tested every ounce of their will. Conor points to the eight-minute drive that closed out the game as proof of their identity, staying calm under pressure, focused in the huddle, and committed to finishing together. Plays like Brody Kuehn’s clutch catch and the ability to bleed the clock in the V formation sealed the night, but for Conor, victory isn’t official until the final whistle. That mindset keeps him locked in every series, every snap.

In the huddle, his message is, stay calm, finish strong, and trust each other. With his experience and composure, he rallies his teammates with encouragement, lifting them when they’re down and demanding their best when it matters most. He thrives on leadership, but it’s his work ethic that backs every word. His preparation is constant, whether it’s studying film, grinding in the offseason with QB coaches, or building physical strength to meet the demands of playing both ways.

Conor embraces the pride of being a two-way player. In Dover Plains, it’s the standard: players fight on both sides of the ball, in multiple sports, fueled by a tight-knit community that values toughness and grit. He wears that identity like a badge of honor, pointing to inspirations like Bryson Daily, who starred at Army as both QB and LB before serving the country with the same relentless spirit. For Conor, never leaving the field isn’t a burden, but a privilege.

Looking forward, he’s clear on what we can expect: more leadership, more intensity, and an unwavering commitment to keep raising the bar. His message to opponents is that Dover’s “DEN” is a place where passion, pride, and hard work collide, and every Friday night will be a battle. Fueled by his love for the game, respect for his teammates and coaches, and a community that rallies behind them, Conor is proving to be one of New York’s most complete and compelling two-way players.

I assess that Conor’s ability to excel as both a quarterback and linebacker makes him a rare talent whose impact stretches across every inch of the field. His toughness, leadership, and competitive edge allow him to dictate games in ways few players can. With his instincts, physicality, and dedication, he projects as a cornerstone player who can thrive at the college level on either side of the ball.

Moving forward, Conor is poised to elevate his game even higher. With continued development as a passer and defender, along with his proven ability to lead under pressure, he has the potential to shine at the next level. His relentless effort, mental toughness, and devotion to his team make him a player college programs will not only want on the roster but will rely on to set the tone for years to come.