D.I.T.R: Jonathan Walker Jr.

Jonathan Walker Jr. was a standout athlete at the Gridiron Football Elite Camp that was held in Eunice, LA. Jonathan is a 5’8″ 170 lb class of 2025 athlete who plays for his school Iowa High School in Iowa, LA. On offense Jonathan plays running back and wide receiver while on defense he plays cornerback. Jonathan prides himself on his knowledge of the game while focusing on his fundamentals. Jonathan also is a 4.0 student as a Sophomore while he also scored a 20 on his most recent ACT. Jonathans athleticism paired with his strong mind and determination makes him a player for all coaches and scouts to keep their eyes on the next two years.

I was fortunate enough to get the chance to speak with Jonathan and learn more about is ideals and career.

When did you start playing football and why did you start playing?

“I started playing when I was 5 years old and I started because my dad played all his life as well so I wanted to follow in his footsteps”

What aspect of the game made you fall in love with the sport?

“I fell in love with the competition and nature of the game. I like how you have to have skill and knowledge of the game”

Do you play any other sports?

“I played basketball in elementary and middle school but now I just focus on Football. I also run the 4×1 and 4×210 in track to work on my speed.”

Who do you look up to as a role model?

“I look up to my dad in life, he is my best role model. I also look up to players like Deion Sanders and Jalen Ramsey on defense and Tony Pollard and Barry Sanders on offense.”

Is there a college or professional player that you try to model your game after?

“On the defensive side of the ball I look up to Deion. I want to be known as lockdown around the nation. On the offensive side of the ball I want to be like Barry Sanders because he is quick and elusive which is what I want in my game.”

What have you learned about yourself from playing football?

“I learned that I am a leader. When I get around people I want to uplift them to the same level as I am. I learned that I am only as strong as my weakest link.”

What sets you apart from the other players at your position?

“Anybody can be skilled but I would like to say that my work ethic and knowledge separate me. I’m a smart football player with great work ethic.”

Who motivates you to get better every day?

“My Dad for sure and also my coaches.”

What goals have you set for yourself this upcoming season?

“On offense I want 2,000 all purpose yards and on defense I want 2 picks and 15 pass break ups.”

What is something you are working on improving in practice?

“I like to work on everything in the offseason. On the defensive side of the ball I am working on my footwork and being patient in order to have smooth backpedals. On offense im working on getting a quicker twitch to burst through the hole.”

What have you learned about teamwork from your past experiences on your teams?

“I learned that it takes all 11 people to win the game. Everyone on the field plays an important role.”

What is your favorite moment from your career so far?

“This past season we played Lake Charles College Prep and the game was tight with a great crowd and atmosphere. I ended up scoring the go ahead TD to win the game. The adrenaline rush I got when scoring that touchdown was amazing.”

What do you see yourself accomplishing after high school?

“I want to play college football and graduate with 2 degrees in the Chemical Engineering field.”

What are some hobbies you like to do in your free time?

“I like to hangout with my friends, play the game, and and work out.”

What kind of qualities do you believe a leader should have?

“A good leader should be accountable for his actions,be loyal to his teammates, be invested and determined in what he is doing, he needs grit and overall he must strive for success.”