DITR: Andrae McMerchant

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.

Check out Andre’s Highlights

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.