We would like to welcome Class of 2026 DB Caleel Collier to Gridiron out of Frederick Douglass High School in New Orleans. Collier has a 3.5+ GPA and recorded 43 total tackles, 21 solo, an interception, three PBUs, and two fumble recoveries and forced fumbles. He plays all over the field in the second level and is a lockdown back, giving receivers barely any space to run. He can play anywhere in the secondary and will be effective no matter what side he is on the field. You can put him in the slot, nickel position, outside, strong safety and he will make plays. He also made the all-district team twice and was selected to join the National Honor Society.
Here is my interview with Caleel Collier
What has your football journey been like? At what age did you start playing, and what inspired you to play football?
My football journey has been mostly stressful. I started playing a little bit of Park, did not really like it, and then I started my ninth grade year. What originally inspired me was I did not want to sit home all day. I wanted to work out and be in shape. I really feel in love with it in 10th grade.
Who have been some of the biggest influences in your journey?
My dad and when I first got there, my position coach.
How would you describe the football culture at your school and community?
Just competitive. You’re gonna see everybody or somebody that is competitive and is going to give you a challenge every game.
What makes Louisiana high school football different from any other state?
Just different! You’re gonna see a lot of looks, a lot of players, different types of players. It is very competitive.
Did you always want to play the DB position, or did you have another position in mind?
I was open to any position, but they put me at DB, and I stuck with it because I really liked it.
What is it like playing all over the field since you play multiple secondary positions?
It is nice. I love stopping offenses. I like to stop the run, I like to stop the pass, and I just like to move around and be versatile.
What parts of your game do you feel like have most improved over the years?
Technique and knowing your assignment.
What were some of the toughest challenges you have faced over your years of playing?
I really can’t pinpoint a specific one but I at least go through one every single year.
What was the most memorable game you have played in, and why did it stand out?
Last season, week one, I got a pick and I played good coverage and I did not think the QB was going to throw it my direction but when he did, I made the play.
How would you describe yourself as a leader to your teammates?
Lead by example, and in my position group, I wouldn’t go off on my teammates too much because I am a chill leader. So if they are messing up, I would help them, pull them aside, and correct them. My coaches have been saying I set the example and I am consistent leader
When people look back at your high school career, what do you hope they say about you as a player and person?
That I was persistent and hard-working.
Did you play any other sports when you were younger or do you do any now?
I started doing track in my 10th grade year and I am currently still doing it.
Describe the experience of playing in the Gridiron All-American Bowl game.
It was a great experience. I got to meet new talents. Just every different player, it’s different from your high school team since everybody is sought after and everyone is put on different teams. It was nice just knowing different talents and just competing.
What made the DB group stand out as part of that experience?
The players we had and the coaches.
What has the recruitment process been like for you so far?
It has been a lot of the times stressful and grateful that I have these opportunities.
Is there a specific college or colleges you have in mind, or a specific coach that you really want to play for?
Nah, I am open to playing anywhere.
Why do you believe you can be an effective playmaker wherever you end up?
Because I am willing to learn, improve, and if I’m being for real, the coach will get a consistent player.
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