Bradenton, Florida IMG Academy Edge Jayden Wayne has been selected to play in the 2023 Polynesian Bowl, it was announced on Tuesday.

Wayne was excited about the selection.

“It means a lot,” Wayne said. “There’s a lot of history with the Polynesian Bowl and a lot of great players,” Wayne said.

Wayne has seen several of his FSP teammates in recent years play in the game.

“I watched and I know a lot of players who played,” Wayne said.

This is why selection is so significant.

“It means a lot and I’m honored and appreciate the recognition,” Wayne said. “I’m very excited to go to Hawaii. I have a lot of poly friends and I’ve played with a lot of poly players.”

Earlier this month, Wayne committed to Miami, shortly after announcing he would play his senior season at IMG after training at Tacoma (Wash.) Lincoln.

Jayden Wayne Screening report: Good frame to add weight and mass. As he matures and gains strength in the weight room, he will define his body composition and reach his physical peak. Already recorded at 6-foot-4, he could top 270 pounds in college without compromising his athleticism. Good 1st step and popped the ball. Gains ground and immediately stresses the tackle with his penetration. Very good level of pad which gives the defender little surface area to hit as they rush the setter or play the run. Shows good motor and desire to hunt with good lateral movement. Good agility and speed, he is light on his feet and is a fluid and effortless player. Tear up blocks and do a good job in the chase. With increased strength and improved technique, he has all the tools you want in an elite defensive lineman. You are exposed to the quality of a general athlete when you watch him play wide receiver. Wayne has a unique player who not only plays on offense and defense. But a skillful position as a receiver that saw him make 18 catches for 269 yards and 5 touchdowns. On the defensive end, he had 44 tackles and 9 sacks. Once he’s able to focus primarily on defense, the sky’s the limit for him. His recruitment has seen schools like all conferences able to pursue him to be part of their curriculum. Once he focuses solely on defense, his cap is high. I see all the skills and traits for him to finally have a career in the NFL. – Single Chris

The 2023 Polynesian Bowl roster included early invitations Malachi Nelson, David Hicks, Nicholas Yamaleava, Francis Mauigoa, Zechariah Branch, Matayo Uiagalelei, Duce Robinson, Lemon Makai, Jaden Rashada, Bravion Rogers, Joenel Aguero, Jason Moore, Tausili Akana, Tomarion Parker and Keldric Faulk.

The Polynesian Bowl kicked off in 2017 with the former Stanford all-rounder Connor Wedington Iowa’s first offensive MVP and former defensive lineman AJ Epenesa the defensive MVP. The 2018 game was Washington’s second year and cornerback Kyler Gordon and Stanford quarterback Tanner McKee were named co-MVP. The 2019 game saw Washington linebacker Daniel Heimuli and BYU receiver Puka Nacua, earn co-MVP honors. The 2020 game saw the BYU quarterback Sol-Jay Maiava and Washington defensive back meki-pei win co-MVP. In 2021, Jackson State signatory Hunter Travis was offensive MVP while Maryland signed Jaishawn Barham earned defensive MVP honors.

The sixth Polynesian Bowl is scheduled for January 20, 2023 in Honolulu and will be televised by NFL Network.

For an overview of the Polynesian Bowl 2023 line-up, go here.