D.I.T.R: Demario Harrell – OLB

Demario Harrell is a very talented outside linebacker from Tylertown High School in Tylertown, Mississippi. Harrell has great size at 6’2″ 210 pounds. He had an impressive junior season with 100 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, and 5 forced fumbles. Nicknamed the “Headhunter,” this outside linebacker is known to tackle with a big thump. Demario also shows amazing speed and quick lateral movements for a linebacker. While Harrell is an outstanding player on the field, he is also a big contributor in his community and school. We had the opportunity to interview Demario Harrell about his young career so far and expectations for the future:

Q: Tell me about yourself? Where did you grow up?

I grew up in a very rural area of southern Mississippi; some people may call it “the sticks”. I lost my mom at a very young age – I like to use that as motivation. Everyday I wake up and I just see motivation. It is not easy growing up where I grew up, but i just try to be a good example for everyone around me and be great everyday.

Q: When did you start playing football?

I started playing football competitively at 8-years-old. I really have been playing my entire life though, whether it was with my brothers and cousins, or my friends, we were always playing in the backyard.

Q: Do you play any sports other than football?

Strictly football. I love the sport.

Q: What is one of the biggest challenged you’ve faced playing football, and how did you overcome that?

One thing i have learned is, a lot of people don’t play as one; they are only locked into their job. But once you think about it, you are out there with your teammates and they are the most important thing. As long as you and your teammates stick together, you can get a bunch of wins and a lot of memorable moments.

Q: What is your favorite part about your position and why do you enjoy playing outside linebacker?

The thing about outside linebacker is that you get to do a little bit of everything. You get to cover receivers, you are in the box – so you get a lot of action everywhere. Basically, outside linebacker is one of the most important positions on the defensive side of the ball if I am being honest.

Q: If a college were to be looking for a certain trait in you what would they find?

My work ethic. One thing about me is that I am the type of person to work from sun up to sun down. I will do whatever it takes to get to the next level and I will work my butt off to do that.

Q: Whether it is a current or former player, who do you idolize on the football field?

Definitely Sean Taylor. Sean Taylor and his hard hits. I have been watching his highlight tapes since I could remember. I love how he played, the intensity he had – it was truly amazing.

Q: What are some of your dream colleges and why?

There is not any particular college because there are so many amazing campuses around.

Q: What is one of the biggest challenged you’ve faced playing football, and how did you overcome that?

One thing I have had to learn playing football is that a lot of the game is mental as much as it is physical. If you are not there mentally you will not perform well. When you have the right mindset you go out there do anything you need to do to play well.

Q: What strengths do you believe you have, that makes you an impact athlete?

My versatility. I am able to cover, I can hit, I can do anything the team really needs me to do.

Q: How would your teammates describe you?

Hardworking, an enjoyable guy to be around.

Q: Your coaches spoke very high of you, and you are expecting another big season this upcoming year. What are you looking forward to this upcoming season, and do you have any specific goals for you?

Obviously, winning a state championship and getting a ring my senior season. I want to enjoy my last season with my teammates here at Tylertown and make memorable moments.

Demario Harrell is a young player who is expected to have a big year this upcoming season for Tylertown High School. Harrell is a fast linebacker with a 4.6 40-speed, combined with great size and strength. His coach praised his exceptional junior season and plans on Harrell excelling further this upcoming year. Demario will be a senior in the class of 2024.