Diamond In The Rough: Ja’Than Royal

Ja’Than Royal is a class of 2021 running back out of Lake Charles College Prep in Lake Charles, Louisiana. He is 5’7″ and weighs 190 pounds. He is a very elusive running back and he always made the first tackler miss. He also has excellent balance and quickness. Royal is also a part of the Track & Field and Baseball programs. He has an ACT score of 21 and a 3.5 GPA.

CHECK OUT ROYAL’S HIGHLIGHTS HERE

When did you begin playing football and what motivated you to play?

I started playing football when I was eleven. I don’t think I really had any motivation to play as I was kind of forced to play. Over the years though, I realized that I could build a future out of this and that keeps me motivated now.

You guys are currently 4-0. What would you say is the biggest key in having that record so far?

I feel like we have to stay focused as a team. We know that each week is just 1-0. As long as we can prepare, watch film, and execute it all in the game, then that is all we need to worry about.

What’s your favorite thing about being a running back?

At running back, the best part is that I can see the whole field. I also love that I can prepare and execute my plays on the field so that they will always work.

Did you have any specific goals for this season?

I plan on signing this season. I also plan on reaching the 1,000 yards and 15 touchdown marks at least. I also want to get at least five to six Division I offers.

How do you think your coaches and teammates would describe you?

They would say I am a leader and persistent. Anything that I do, my coaches can say that I am a coachable player and respectful. My teammates would tell you that I am not selfish.

What would you say that football has taught you about yourself or life?

Football has taught me to value unselfishness. You can’t always do everything by yourself. In life, most of the things you do are for the person on side of you.

What’s your favorite thing about playing football in Louisiana?

I love the crowds! It’s different in Louisiana. Playing out here, everybody is family. Being in an atmosphere where everyone is family feels comfortable. It gets loud. Everyone just cares about one another, it’s not just a sport. It’s something that everyone is doing as a way of life.

What would you say are your main strengths on the field?

I would say vision, speed, and my elusiveness are my main strengths on the field. It’s really hard for opponents to get a big hit on me.

Three words to describe yourself are…

Ambitious, resilient, and determined!

Are there any college or NFL athletes that you look up to or try to model your play style after?

The two biggest running backs I look at are Dalvin Cook from the Vikings and Alvin Kamara from the Saints. With Dalvin, I feel like I play like him a lot with my ability to catch and juke. I also have that balance of speed and power. With Alvin, you never really see people get a big hit on him. He is so balanced.

What hobbies are you involved in besides sports?

At school, I am a part of the Student Council, BETA Club, KEY Club and National Honors Society. I am also in the Art Club.