The following article appeared in the Preston Hollow newspaper on October. 27, 2025
By Todd Jorgenson

Cade Kirby's varsity resume wouldn't suggest his emergence as the leading receiver for Jesuit Dallas this season, but those in the Rangers' locker room aren't surprised.

His teammates elected him a captain, despite having had just four appearances and seven receptions in his career. They saw his offseason dedication after spending his entire junior year sidelined because of a broken collarbone.

Kirby's breakthrough as a go-to pass-catcher came later than planned, but it's part of the reason why Jesuit is on the cusp of another playoff berth.

"Our players respect Cade. I knew he was going to have a great season with how hard he worked over the summer. He's gotten better each week," said Jesuit head coach Brandon Hickman. "I'm really proud of the way he handled the injury and battled back, and has had an outstanding season both as a player and as a leader."

Kirby's offseason regimen included almost daily weight and speed training, plus regular field work with Jesuit starting quarterback and longtime friend Beck Berry.

"I had to go out and make a statement," Kirby said. "I'd lost a lot of that agility and was trying to get that back."

He scored his first touchdown during a non-district loss to Highland Park, and followed that up with 112 yards and two scores in a victory over Irving. He's been back in the end zone almost every week since.

"He runs great routes and has really good hands," Hickman said. "The main thing is he gives outstanding effort on every play. He never takes off on a play or a rep in practice."

Kirby recovered from his 2024 surgery to play most of the basketball season as a reserve guard for the Rangers. He's been playing both sports since he was very young.

"It's definitely challenging to balance it, especially the physical workload. I focus on trying to take care of my body and get enough sleep," he said. "But I love it and wouldn't want it any other way."

Kirby is part of a receiving corps that includes returnees Shane Parker and Harlan Beucler, as well as Corson Lindley and Lucas Mayer. After a slow start due partially to injuries, the unit has helped the Rangers push for a seventh consecutive postseason appearance.

"We've got a lot of new guys, including myself. Now we've got our rhythm going," Kirby said. "I think our offense is going in the right direction."