D.I.T.R: Jebron Ellington

Jebron Ellington is a class of 2025 Quarterback for the Hueytown Golden Gophers. This will be Jebron’s first year starting, having to replace the 2021 Gatorade Player Of The Year from Alabama, Earl Woods. He has done a great job of leading the team before this year’s spring practice sessions. Jebron does a great job of making the most of his opportunities, viewing from his hudl with plays from coming in the game as a backup. He is a great dual-threat quarterback who will be expected to lead a very successful football team with high expectations to a State Championship, and he is more than capable to do so.

Can you tell us your name and position on the football team?

Jebron Ellington, Quarterback

What made you decide to play football in high school?

I always had a passion for football and I’ve been playing since I was 4 years old. My dream has been to play football my entire life. 

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced on the field?

Slowing the game down in your head and not getting overwhelmed is a big challenge. Not getting down when things get tough is also very challenging. 

How do you motivate yourself when things get tough during a game?

My teammates are the reason why I could never give up when things get tough during a game. When I get down during games they pick me up and vice versa.

What do you think sets you apart from other players on your team? 

My mindset. Firstly, my work ethic is a reflection of my mindset. Working hard daily and never giving up, even when things aren’t going my way, is one of the things that I always challenge myself to do. 

Can you talk about a moment in your football career that you’re particularly proud of? 

Little League (8 years old). I scored the game-winning touchdown to go to the championship. This special moment stuck with me forever, and it was also on my birthday. 

How do you handle the pressure of being an important player on the team?

The pressure of being an important player on the team is real, but this is the type of thing that you can’t let get to you. You have to be yourself and deal with the situation. 

How do you balance football and your academic studies? 

Schoolwork always comes first and I try to make sure that I get my schoolwork done in class, before I get to football.  

What have you learned about teamwork through playing football? 

You can’t be successful in football by yourself. You must build chemistry with your team so you can help out each other. 

Can you describe your pre-game ritual or superstitions?

I must blast YoungBoy or Young Nudy to get myself hype before a game. I eat protein bars and bananas so I am fueled up before the game. Because I am a Quarterback, I like to stretch my arm with resistance bands to get my arm prepped for the day. 

Who is your biggest inspiration or role model in the sport of football?

It used to be Cam Newton, but now it’s Jalen Hurts. I like the nature of the dual-threat QB and how they carry themselves. Cam Newton had a dog-mentality and Jalen Hurts has a mentality that will never allow him to be counted out. 

How do you stay physically and mentally prepared for each game? 

Physically, I usually ice bathe every Thursday before a game. This helps the recovery of my muscles. Mentally, I go home, relax, lay down and stay off of my feet while studying our weekly plays and film on the other squad.

What are your goals for the future, both on and off the field?

My goal is to win every game and lead my team to the championship this year. I would like to get a full-ride scholarship while being able to study mechanical engineering before making it to the NFL.

What advice would you give to young aspiring football players?

You can do anything that you put your mind to and always be yourself. Always stay humble.

What do you hope to achieve with your football career in the future?

I hope football will make me a better man, a better leader, and become more vocal. I would love to make it to the NFL and win the Heisman Trophy in college as well. I would love to get MR. Football in my High School career as well.