D.I.T.R: Jonathan Bibbs

Jonathan Bibbs is a 6’2” 164 lb class of 2024 Wide Receiver. Jonathan is a very lanky receiver who excels mainly in the running-after-catch and playmaking categories. He can take any pass, whether it is a slant or a go-ball, to the house. Jonathan plays for the Spain Park Jaguars from Hoover, Alabama, which means that he plays in a very tough 7A schedule against the best of programs in Alabama High School Football. Jonathan plays against teams like Thompson, Hoover, and Vestavia Hills who are all top programs in the entire state. Jonathan’s highlights are filled with him taking short passes for a long gain or getting open in the middle of the field for a lot of yards. A lot of receivers are one dimensional, but Jonathan is one of the most complete receivers in the State of Alabama. Jonathan currently has a couple of offers, but he is looking to take the next step during next year to become one of the top receivers in the nation. Check out me and Jonathan’s Q&A below!

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

Jonathan Bibbs, Wide Receiver

What made you decide to play football in high school?

Growing up I’ve always been playing football. I started playing at 4 years old with older kids.

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

Last year, I was kinda small and playing at 140 lbs, which led to a lack of strength that held me back from what I knew I could accomplish.

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

Family. My family comes to my games and I am always motivated by this which leads me to motivate my other teammates as well.

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

Actually wanting to play and win kinda separates me from the rest of my team. Hopefully not everyone is OK with losing in the future.

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

9th and 10th grade I was on JV. The improvements made from then to my 11th grade year allowed me to become a starter. I made the change from Defensive Back to Wide Receiver.

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

I look at myself as a regular player on the team. The job isn’t finished until we get a State Championship.

How do you balance football and your academic studies? 

I had to figure out a way to become a student-athlete. I had to make some improvements with my parents staying on me about my academic success.

What have you learned about teamwork through playing football? 

Football is a team game. It is important to work and have chemistry with your teammates in order to have a common goal.

Can you describe your pre-game ritual or superstitions?

Praying is the first thing. I like to bump YB or any hype music to put me in that mode before a game.

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

I look up to Justin Jefferson and Devonta Smith. By them being slim guys and being able to produce at their positions for their teams give me hope and learning points that I can follow to be successful.

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

I like to pray before every game. I come from a very religious family. We lift a lot and exercise during the season to stay physically prepared.

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

I want to make it to the NFL. Off the field, I want to be able to make my mother proud in any way possible.

What advice would you give to young aspiring football players?

Make sure you keep your grades up, stay focused on your dreams, and ignore the haters that discourage you from doing something that you WANT.

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

Definitely go to the NFL. I want to have football take me as far as it can so I can become successful in whatever I choose to do during or after football.