DITR: Isiah Stinson

Isiah Stinson has been a great receiver for the Rosepine Eagles and was one of the driving forces behind the Eagles’ incredible two year run, which includes two ten win seasons and two Quarterfinal appearances. The run game was headlined by the program’s all-time leading rusher Grant Ducote, but when the Eagles needed to throw the football, they would look towards Isiah Stinson’s way. Isiah led the Eagles in receiving both years with over 1,000 yards and close to 20 touchdowns the last two seasons.

For Isiah, helping the Eagles achieve history by reaching the Quarterfinals for the first time is what he will remember most about his playing days at Rosepine.

“The one thing I’m most proud of is making history with my guys. Making it to the Quarterfinals for the first time in school history.”

Isiah is a team player that has taken on many different roles including at defensive back and as a kick returner and punt returner. Those positions have only helped him in his development as a receiver.

“I realized I was pretty good at football my freshman year. I started safety, punt returner, and kick returner. When I did what I did that year, I knew I had potential to go to the next level.”

Gridiron Football CEO Andy Bryson has seen Isiah play a lot over his four year career at his alma mater and has been very impressed with his aggressiveness and how he takes over the middle of the field. Isiah agrees that those are his biggest traits as a receiver.

“My biggest strengths are my speed, my hands, and being able to catch in traffic or over a defender. I’m very agile and I make good cuts.”

Isiah continues to work hard on his craft whether it is putting work in the summer on his footwork and his route running or watching film on his favorite receiver DeVonta Smith.

“We have the same game and we are built the same. I watch him before games. He has good footwork and great routes. He helps me get better. He has the grit and fight. Even though he might not be the biggest on the field, he is going to make the biggest play.”

At 5’11, 170 pounds with 4.55/40 speed, Isiah has the tools and work ethic to be a great slot receiver. Because of that, he got the opportunity to be invited to play in the Gridiron Football All-American Bowl Game.

“I’m extremely excited for the bowl game! I’m extremely proud of myself. I’m super excited to show people what I got. It should be a fun experience.”

Before the bowl game, Isiah received no offers although he did receive some interest. Still, his attitude did not change as Isiah still continues to put the work in. Isiah also knew what he wanted to get from the experience of playing in the bowl game.

“I want to become a better player coming from the bowl game. I’m sure coaches will give me tips and drills to work on my footwork or getting good crisp routes.”

Representing the West team, Isiah was one of the game’s leading receivers with 3 catches for 48 yards. Showcasing his talent against some of the best talent in the country, Isiah was a top performer in the game and now, he will focus on continuing his football playing career after high school.

When the Rosepine receiver does eventually hang up the helmet and shoulder pads, he wants to stay involved with the game that has helped him become the person that he is today.

“I love everything about football from the excitement to the pain. The atmosphere of football is amazing. I want to become a high school coach. I want to inspire kids the way my coaches inspire me. A lot of kids grow up without a father and I know how much a coach can impact a kid. I want to become the coach that impacts a kid.”

Isiah knows because his head coach Brad Ducote has inspired him to become the best person and player that he can be.

“I would thank my family and God. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for them, but a really special thanks to my Coach Brad Ducote. He is like my dad and we have a special bond.”