In this issue of Diamond In The Rough (DITR), we interviewed Big Andrae McMerchant Jr. Andrae is from Lake Providence, La and attends General Trass High School. Andrae is a class of 2023 prospect with a 3.0 GPA. He is scheduled to take the ACT. Andrae is 6’5″ and weighs 270 LBS. Coach Wells, his head coach, told me, “We have had several schools express interest in him this off-season. Andrae is a pleasure to coach, he is a hard worker, has a great motor, and is a good student. He also has good hands for a big guy.” I saw this big guy play twice last season as well as come out to one of our camps this spring. He is a legitimate 6’5″ guy that passes the eye test. I have already invited this young man to the 2022 Gridiron Football All-American Bowl game. This kid can move for a big man, he plays with good pad height, and uses his hands. I think this kid will dominate as a DI prospect.
When did start playing? Since I was 7 years old in the YMCA League in Monroe, La. I wanted to try to play the game instead of playing games at home. I just fell in love with football.
What have you learned about yourself while playing? That I know I can step up to be a leader. For example, when my teammates start to argue in the locker room, I usually step in and calm the situation down.
What would your teachers say about you? I am a good kid, I always get my work down, and I am always on time.
What do you love about playing football? I love playing football because I get to hit people without getting into trouble. I love the aggressiveness of the sport and the competition.
Who do you look up to? My parents and grandparents because whenever I need something they are always there for me. I like Myles Garrett, because of how strong and physical he is. That is who I model my playing style as.
What motivates you? My sister, I want to do whatever I can to help her. I barely get to see her since she lives in Monroe and I live in Lake Providence. I feel like I have a lot to prove to some people because I always feel that people doubt me. So I work my hardest everyday to be my best.
Are there any aspects of the game that you are working on this summer to get better for the fall? I am working on my handwork and footwork. I am currently taking Yoga classes to get more flexible. I have been to several camps. I have been to UL, Memphis, LCU, Southern Miss, and Gridiron Football’s spring camp.
What is your personal goal for this upcoming season? I want to win state. I have been taking my teammates to camps with me so they can get better at what they are lacking at. Every week I have taken one or two of my teammates with me to a camp. So far I have taken 8 or 9 of my teammates to camps with me. I have also been pushing my team in the weight room to get better every day. When we are out doing our team runs, I am not letting any of my teammates fall back.
What makes you special? Why should a college recruit you? I am a team leader, I am always on time, I am a hard worker, and I am a good student athlete
What are your hobbies? My hobbies are fishing, working out, and working on a truck or car.
