Melik Johnson is our newest D.I.T.R. from Collegiate High School in Baton Rouge, LA. Melik was in attendance at the Gridiron Football Elite Camp that was held in his home city of Baton Rouge at Woodlawn High School. Johnson measured in 5’7″ 150lbs as he enters his senior season. At the camp, Johnson posted a 4.6 second 40 yard dash, 5.19 second 3 cone shuttle and a 7’5″ broad jump to top off his performance. On the field, Johnson uses his low center of gravity to change direction and make explosive plays for his team. Meliks shiftiness allows him to make comeback plays on the ball on the offensive side of the ball at slot receiver as well as free safety.
I was was fortunate enough to speak with Melik about his career and life in more depth.
When did you start playing football and why did you start playing?
“I started playing football at an early age in BREC league, I was inspired by my brother who also played.”
What aspect of the game made you fall in love with the sport?
“I really like the physicality, being able to make plays is another part that I love.”
Do you play any other sports?
“I run in the 200, 100 and 4×2 for the track team.”
Who do you look up to as a role model?
“I look up to Cam Newton, everything he says inspires me and I really like the way he carries himself.”
Is there a college or professional player that you try to model your game after?
“I model my game after Darius Slay and Jalen Ramsey. I like the way Ramsey is aggressive and never backs down from a challenge, he likes to let his play show that he is the top player on the field. I like Darius Slay’s poise and patience as well.”
What have you learned about yourself from playing football?
“I learned that most things in life are uncontrollable and I just have to persevere through hard times.”
What sets you apart from the other players at your position?
“I set myself apart by being a great role player. I try to do what I can with the ability I have been given.”
What school subject is the most appealing to you and why?
“I enjoy social studies, I like to learn about life that I don’t get to see everyday as well as history.”
What goals have you set for yourself this upcoming season?
“I want to break a school record, stay motivated and lastly get myself into the best shape I can.”
What is something you are working on improving in practice?
“I’m working on improving my timing. Sometimes I break on the ball right but mess up the timing on my jump so I want to improve on that.”
What kind of qualities do you believe a leader should have?
“He should always hold his head high and stay poised. He should also motivate his team to do the right thing and not ever bring anyone down.”
What have you learned about teamwork from your past experiences on your teams?
“I’ve learned that teamwork is very important. It doesn’t work if everyone is playing for themselves. The team plays with one heart, one beat, one sound.”
What is your favorite moment from your career so far?
“My favorite game was our game against Mentorship. I played well that game and also had a pick six.”
What do you see yourself accomplishing after high school?
“I want to play football in college and graduate as an IT technician or a physical trainer to stay in the game of football.”
What are some hobbies you like to do in your free time?
“I like to just rest and hangout with my friends when I’m not on the field. But mostly in my freetime I am working on the field.”
