Diamond In The Rough: Jereme Ombogo

Jereme Ombogo is a track star that makes plays on the gridiron. He may be slightly small, listed at 5’9′ 155lbs, but this man is a true athlete. He has 4.3 speed and uses it to make consistent plays on both sides of the ball. On offense, he can make most catches and can take it to the house at any time. He is probably even better on defense, where this year he will be roaming and following the best opposing players every week. Don’t be fooled by his size, this man is not afraid to be physical and he showed that getting over 20 tackles in his first game on defense last year. Speed is so important, but Jereme is not just a speedster, he’s a playmaker and it is going to be on full display this year.

How long have you been playing football?

Since I was about 5 in little league.

Do you play any other sports?

I run track and play basketball.

What position are you primarily playing this year?

Cornerback, but I will actually be alternating at safety as well and not playing much at wideout this year.

Is that where you prefer to play, or is that just what the team needs you to do?

Honestly, I love playing receiver, but I love defense and I’ll get to play there mostly.

How was last season?

It seemed like our system did not fit our players, so we struggled on offense and we should have been better.

What are your expectations for this year?

We will have a good year this year, I have high hopes and everything is falling into place for us to succeed. Personally, I want 20 tackles a game maybe even 30 since I am playing multiple spots.

What is your biggest accomplishment so far?

Finally getting into my comfort zone. I had trouble finding my role when I got to Klein, I tried playing everywhere on offense and it just wasn’t clicking. Then when I got playing time on defense, a switch flipped and I got comfortable.

Is there anyone you try to emulate on the field?

On offense Tyreek Hill and on defense Tyrann Mathieu.

Where do you think you could improve the most?

I feel like I need to be more mobile going after the ball. I am very fast and can cover the field, but sometimes when the ball is in the air, I don’t make the play. There are plenty of times where I could definitely get to the ball and make a play, but I stay stuck on my responsibilities away from the ball and keep myself out of the play.  I feel like I need to do more for my team, so I feel like I can improve my mobility tracking the plays that need to be made.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I actually own a clothing line that started in January and that pretty much takes up my free time.

How have you stayed in shape since last season?

Me and a few teammates would have workouts multiple times a day multiple times a week and we did that until the team started practicing together.

Do you want to try to run track as well as play football in college?

Yes, I hope to stay as a dual-sport athlete throughout college.

What do you love the most about playing football?

The competitive drive. It helps me on the field, but also in everyday life be the best version of myself.

How do you get ready for a game?

I have to have my music, then I like to meditate before a game. I’m usually ready after that.

How would you describe yourself as a player and a teammate?

Honestly, I am a leader. I expect the most out of every single player, especially myself.

What motivates you the most?

My family, I want to get them to a better destination. I’m going to get us out of this surrounding.