DITR: QB Landon McGrath, Slidell High School (Slidell, LA)

In terms of high school football, Landon McGrath is a player worth watching.  In addition to being an excellent quarterback for Slidell High School, 6’1″ and 195 pounds Landon is an exceptional student in the classroom.

Up until his junior year, Landon played offensive tackle before switching to quarterback. In spite of the difficulty, he demonstrated his versatility and ability right away. Yet Landon’s not your average quarterback. In addition, he plays tight end and long snapper, demonstrating his versatility and desire to help the team in any way he can.

What makes Landon unique is his unwavering commitment to keep becoming better. He devotes himself completely to each practice, whether it’s improving his passes or technique. Landon finds a second family in his football team off the field. Knowing that he can rely on them just as much as they can rely on him, he cherishes the relationship and support they offer.

Without a doubt, Landon will continue to make an impression both on and off the field as he looks to the future. For Landon McGrath, the possibilities are endless given his skill and work ethic. 

How did you get started in football, and what inspired you to play the sport?

I started playing flag football when I was around seven years old and in 8th grade I began contact football. I started as an offensive lineman and now I play quarterback. I was inspired by my uncle who played quarterback for Slidell High, who went on to play for Arkansas Tech University. Building a camaraderie and hearing his stories about his teammates and even a guy that made it to the NFL, Matt Forte, was very inspirational. 

Can you share a memorable moment or game that stands out in your football career so far?

The most memorable game would be my junior year homecoming game. It was my best performance of the year and one of the most fun games I have been a part of. My team was able to come off with a 49-21 win.

What positions do you enjoy playing the most, and why?

I have played many positions in my high school career but the position I enjoy playing the most is quarterback. My first 3 years of football I was an offensive tackle. My junior year in highschool I successfully transitioned to playing quarterback and tight end. I am also a long snapper.

How do you balance schoolwork and football during the season?

One simple way I balance schoolwork and football during the season is by not procrastinating. Making sure that the first thing I do when I get home is homework and prepare for the next day. 

What aspects of your game do you feel you have improved upon the most since you started playing?

An aspect of my game that I feel I have improved on the most is creating my own style of play. Learning when to be an athlete and a playmaker and learning when to stick to the system in play.

What are your individual goals for the upcoming football season?

My individual goal for the upcoming season is to become an All-State quarterback. 

Are there any professional football players you look up to, and if so, why? 

Some professional football players I look up to are Brock Purdy and Joe Burrow. I look up to these guys because I feel I can relate to them the most and I can mirror their style.

How do you stay motivated during practices and training sessions, especially when facing tough drills or exercises?

One way I am able to stay motivated during practice is by constantly thinking about the team I have to play that week. Thinking of the possibility of losing keeps my going. I know that no one else is taking a break or cheating reps in practice so why should I.

What advice would you give to other young players? 

Some advice I would give to young players would be take advantage of every chance to get better. Take every opportunity in the weight room or on the field.

Aside from football, what is an interesting fact about you? 

Something interesting about me is that I am someone who is dedicated to everything I do. The same energy I have in football is the same energy I have to everything else in life.

Which college would you most like to play for? 

My dream would be to play for LSU, but I would be honored to play football at any college.

What are your biggest strengths on the field? 

My biggest strength on the field is my arm talent. Also my ability to stay calm in the pocket.

What is the biggest challenge you face on the field? 

My biggest challenge on the field is my ability to move inside the pocket without leaving the pocket. 

How has playing football impacted other areas of your life, such as academics and personal life?

Football has impacted my life by teaching me the importance of discipline. Strengthening my discipline has helped further raise my grades and improve many other aspects of my life.