We would like to welcome our next Diamond In The Rough to Gridiron, Jordan Perkins, a 2028 WR out of Richwood High School in Monroe, LA. At 5’10 160, and with a GPA of 3.5, Perkins attended the Gridiron Elite Camp in Monroe, where he posted a 4.97 40, a 4.47 shuttle, and an 8’10 broad jump. Those stats do not tell the whole story of how fast he is, as he can break off long touchdown catch-and-runs and gain separation from defenders in an instant. This is a kid who didn’t start playing football until he was around 12 and has been raised by his sister for most of his life. He has played multiple positions, including receiver, quarterback, tailback, and defensive end.
Here is my interview with Jordan Perkins:
What has your football journey been like? At what age did you start playing football, and what inspired you to play football?
I started playing football at around 12 to 13 years old. Earlier, like in middle school, I didn’t do too much of it; I was just trying it out when my friends told me to play. My journey didn’t really start until I saw my mom in California, and I was on a travel team for about a year. I went out there, developed a little bit, got a little better, and once I got a really good feel for the game, I fell in love with the sport and could really entertain myself. People have always told me I am very talented, but I must put it to good use.
Who have been some of the biggest influences in your journey? Family members, coaches, etc?
I’d say my sister is the biggest influence. The other would be my grandmother, but I push so hard because of all my siblings, nieces, nephews, and everyone else. I try to help people live better lives, knowing what it’s like to go through what I went through.
How would you describe the football culture at your school, community, and in Louisiana?
I just transferred, so I can’t really speak on the culture of my school, but in the community, all the things we do, like the pregame festivities, the pep rallies, they set the tone and get us hype before a game. The environment is awesome as well.
Did you always want to play wide receiver, or did you want to play another position at first?
When I first got into the sport, my team was having a quarterback problem due to injuries and all that, so I actually got to play quarterback at first. I’m an athlete, so I got to do a lot of things like play QB at times. I knew I could always practice by participating in those games. They had to switch some things around, which is why I went to receiver; I can catch as well. Then I went to California and played quarterback, but the thing is, I never had a trainer or anyone to help me prepare until now. My real big supporter was my sister because she was still growing up, so she kind of had to take care of me, which limited the things she wanted to do. When I was in Cali, I was more of a dual-threat quarterback, but then another quarterback came along, and long story short, I ended up becoming that serious deep threat on offense. While on the travel team, I played receiver and defensive end. By the time I got to high school back in Louisiana, receiver just became my thing.
What part or parts of your game do you feel like have improved the most over the years, and what would you like to improve on?
I’d say I have improved on my ball skills for sure. I really want to improve on my footwork, like release and things like that.
How do you stay motivated and disciplined during the offseason?
I know I have people depending on me, like my sister, who puts everything into me, my sports, and academics. I want a better life for my family, and if I can make football happen, a lot more things can fall into place, especially for the generation coming up behind me, like my nieces and nephews.
How would you describe yourself as a leader to your teammates?
I always bring the energy. I am always positive and always help my teammates. If they make mistakes, I’ll be there to correct them. I’m just a lot of energy for the team to have around.
What was the Monroe Gridiron Football camp experience like?
It was a fun experience, and it showed me a lot. When I went out there, there weren’t many skill-position players, and I realized you can not underestimate your opponent under any circumstances. There are many opportunities out there.
What has the recruitment process been like for you?
I’ve been getting into contact with coaches but as of right now, no offers.
Is there any specific place you have in mind, or are you open right now?
I’m mainly open, but as far as a receiver, I really see myself somewhere like Ohio State or a college that produces really good receivers.
Why do you believe you can be an effective playmaker wherever you end up in your first year of college football?
You can tell by asking any one of my coaches: I have a very strong work ethic, I’m very coachable, I’m very disciplined, and on the field, speed kills. Once you mix speed with technique, you’ve got yourself a playmaker like a Tyreek Hill or Devonte Smith, guys that I think about a lot and how they aren’t the biggest, but they are the fastest.
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