by Josh Kirkpatrick
Grant is an absolute monster on the field. At 6’4 and 270 lbs, Grant tears through an offensive line like it’s swiss cheese. He’s big, physical and explosive – flying out of his stance as soon as the ball moves. Grant’s ability to sniff out the ball on trick plays is unparalleled by his peers and his ability to contain is just as impressive as his ability to blitz. Grant’s size and strength make it easy for him to get off blocks and penetrate into the backfield. Grant is a smart player with a high football IQ who will destroy any player set before him. Off the field, Grant is a diligent student with a 3.3 GPA. He works hard on his school work and always gets the job done so he can focus on football.
When did you get involved with football?
- I’ve been playing since the 5th grade. I was never forced to play; I just loved the sport. My brothers and Dad all played, so I’ve been exposed to football my whole life and got a lot of football experience at a young age.
Who has influenced you most in your life?
- My parents. They’ve always been there to support me throughout every step of my life. They’re always gonna be in my corner, no matter the situation. I’m also really close with my brothers. They’ve walked through all of the same stuff I have, so they’re always giving me good advice and are amazing supporters.
What are some of your core values?
- Life isn’t about me. I’ve always been taught to be selfless and put others before myself. I try to use football as a platform to help, influence and transform those around me; be it a little kid watching or a teammate.
How do you lead your team?
- I’m not a very outspoken leader who tries to hype the team up. I do most of my leading in a 1 on 1 situation where I can really speak into my teammate’s life and talk about real life struggles.
How have you balanced school and football?
- I’ve never really struggled with school because our teachers and coaches really support us academically. They always give us time to do homework before practice, so we don’t have to worry about school during or after practice. If you actually prepare or study during that time, you’ll be alright.
Who are you on the field?
- I’m not a talker, but I play passionately. I hate losing, but I don’t ever do anything disrespectful or cheap. I play a clean game, but if you take a cheap shot on one of my teammates, I will protect them.
What makes you stand out?
- My size and strength. I’ve been blessed to have a great strengths and conditioning coach, so I’m really strong. I’m also fast, I’m always where I need to be on the field. I do my job and I’m not gonna shy away from a big hit. I’m not focused on doing my job, but on getting the job done.
How do you deal with adversity on the field?
- In a close game or a tough situation, I always tell the team that it isn’t about one person, or one mistake and we can’t fix the game with one play. We need to step up and play our best. We never point fingers; we’ve got each other’s backs and we stay united.
Do you have any goals for the season?
- A State Title is always the goal. But personally, I just try to be the best player I can be. I pay attention to the details and work on my technique. If I do that, the stats will follow. I just have to do everything I can do to help my team win.
