James Owens is a 5’10”, 160 pound, class of 2024 Athlete who plays running back, wide receiver, and strong safety for Pine High School in Franklinton, Louisiana. James is a productive player, having accounted for 897 all-purpose yards on offense in 2022 (536 rushing and 361 receiving), while also reaching the end zone 7 times last season. James is a great route runner, but the best part of his game has to be his catching abilities, as his tape shows the ability to make difficult and contested catches, including 1 on 1 jump balls, which he usually comes away winning. He isn’t afraid to take hits or lay out for passes wither. An underrated part of a skill position players’ responsibilities is blocking, and James has shown through his tape that he isn’t afraid at all to throw a nasty block and help his teammates out when he doesn’t touch the ball. James is used in a number of different ways in Pine’s offense: he runs short routes and screens, longer routes, is handed the ball in short yardage situations, and his coaches find ways to get him the ball in open space as well. James is also featured on Pine’s special teams unit as a returner.
James currently doesn’t have any offers, but he still has one more season of high school football to play, and he also has interest from Nicholls State University and Southeastern State University, both in Louisiana. Off the field, James has a 3.2 GPA.
James was a recent participant at our Gridiron Football camp in Rayville, Louisiana, where his performance lead to an easy decision of inviting him to participate in our All-American Bowl Game this December in Orange Beach, Alabama. James mentioned this as one of his favorite accomplishments so far in his football career. At the camp, James ran an impressive 4.69 40-yard dash, a 4.78 shuttle time, and jumped 10’2″ in the long jump, the most of over 60 participants.
I had the chance to interview James after his camp performance:
Why and at what age did you start playing football?
“I started playing football at 6, because I saw all my friends playing football and having fun, and they said I should try football because I was fast and have good hands. I picked up a football I loved it ever since.”
Have you always played your current position, or did you play a different position growing up?
“I have always played my current position and I never changed.”
What sets you apart from everyone else on the field?
“What sets me apart from the others is that if you need someone to make a big play, I’m the man you need, and I will always motivate my teammates, even if they make mistakes.”
What is your favorite memory playing football so far?
“My favorite memory is having a game setting touchdown versus a rival team that were the state champs last season.”
How do you balance athletics and academics?
“I balance both academics and athletics by focusing on one thing, then focusing on the other, and not overthinking either one.”
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced on the field?
“My biggest challenge on the field is to focus on my assignment and not to overthink it.”
Is there a certain player you try to model your game after?
“I don’t have a model player for me… I try to figure out things on my own, and make my own things.”
How do you stay physically fit outside of football?
“I go to my trainer three days a week after school, and when I don’t go to my trainer, I go outside to work on footwork and other drills.”
What are you hoping to achieve in this upcoming season?
“I’m hoping to get at least 11 touchdowns, earn1st team all team athlete, and 800 all-purpose yards.”
What is your end goal for your football career?
“My end goal is to get one offer from a D1,D2,D3 or even a JUCO just a offer.”
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned playing football?
“Never be satisfied with what you have because you can always achieve more.”
How do you prepare for big games?
“I stay to myself, listen to music, and think about the things I have to do.”
Lastly, who is the biggest role model in your life?
“My biggest role model is my momma, because she’ll do almost anything to make my dream possible.”
Look out for James Owens next season. He’s got his goals set and is looking forward to his Senior season with Pine High School.
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