Rising Star, OL/DL Salmond Davis, Ferriday Junior High (Ferriday, Louisiana)

Standing slightly over 6’1″, versatile lineman Salmond Davis shows plenty of potential for the next level. Despite last year being his first time playing organized football, the 2028 lineman has already shown to be an issue for opposing teams. In his eighth-grade season, he produced: 16 sacks, 33 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery, and a touchdown. He carried that momentum over into the 2023 Gridiron Football Junior High Bowl, where he recorded two tackles and a forced fumble. In fact, when asked about his production, he simply stated, “Did you see how I harassed the QB all day in the all-star game?”.

Davis carries himself with a winning mentality that matches the intensity within football. Although he posted an unofficial 4.6 40 yard dash, he still wants to improve his speed and strength. His goal is to start on varsity defense as only a ninth grader; clearly, he’s taking the appropriate steps.

In football, great players offer more than just physicality. Having the proper mindset separates the best from the rest. When asked why he likes football, he explained that the sport that fits him because of the “aggressiveness”. Davis has the discipline to continue working to improve, even when he already has great athletic ability, and the aggression to want to disrupt an entire offense. That’s a mature mindset that will get him noticed.

Below is a QnA between Davis and myself.

What are some things you have overcame in life?

I’ve overcame my attitude and being a problem child.

What are your biggest accomplishments?

I pulled all of my grades up in school.

What player do you compare yourself to and why?

I don’t compare myself to any players because I don’t really look into players with the same assignment as me on the field.

What’s your GPA right now?

Right now it’s a 2.8.

What’s an interesting fact about you outside of football?

I like to box.

What’s a strength you have in the game?

Getting to the QB. I like to see him on his back.

What’s something football taught you?

You have to put effort in to succeed in something that you’re passionate in.