Diamond in the Rough: Gideon Cuellar, University Lab High School

Gideon Cuellar is a 6’0 205lb Linebacker/ Strong Safety from University Lab High School in Baton Rouge, LA. He is a solid tackler with an aggressive nature that creates problems for offenses. His knowledge at the linebacker position, and excellent read and react skills allow him to come up and make big plays at the line of scrimmage. Gideon also has the speed to cut off runs stretched to the outside. His junior year, he was a 2^nd Team All District selection and a key part of University Lab’s championship defense; racking up 70 tackles, 5 sacks, and 13 TFL. He is a talented athlete who plays with a high motor each time he touches the field.  After winning a state championship last season, Gideon is ready to play at a high level and is locked in on helping his team become the first back to back champions in U-High history.

 

Height: 6’0

Weight: 205

Bench: 225

Squat: 400

Clean: 270

40: 4.65

Shuttle: 4.35

GPA: 3.0

 

 

 

When did you start playing football?

When I was 6 with the Southside Patriots.

What is it that makes you love the game?

I have just always had a passion for it. I grew up playing it and I haven’t stopped since.

Who do you model your gameplay after?

Ray Lewis because we play with the same mentality.

What area of your game would you like to improve on this off season?

I would like to improve on film study more. So I can study and react quicker to what the offense will do. Just getting better at reading offenses and watching film.

What would college coaches be most impressed with about you?

My work ethic and how willing I am to do whatever it takes to be the best.

What are your expectations for next season?

I expect to go back to back. Be the best we can be and be the first team in U-High history to go back to back.

What do you want to study in college?

Petroleum engineering.

What would you say are your biggest accomplishments?

Definitely winning the state championship last season.

What have you learned about yourself while playing football?

Learned that I can be as good as I want to be, just depends on how much work I put in.

Who do you look up to and why?

I look up to my mom. She’s a great woman who never gives up and pushes me to be the best.

What would you consider your biggest strengths as a football player?

My willingness to do whatever it takes to win and my work ethic. The work I put in outside of game days; practicing, working out, etc.….

What would your coach say about you?

Would say I’m respectful, coachable, and well raised.

After winning a state championship last season, teams will want to beat you even more. Are you using that as motivation for this season?

Absolutely, we all know there is a target on our backs. Everybody wants us and we want everybody.