TE/DE Jermaine Willams: Collins, MS

We take a trip to Collins, Mississippi for our next Diamond in the Rough featured athlete. In the class of 2024, a 6’1, 210 pound tight end, who can also play defensive end, Jermaine Williams is a force on both sides of the ball for the Tigers. After speaking with Jermaine, it seems as if he is wanting to be a tight end at the next level, which is definitely possibly for someone with his skillset. He is someone who is steadily putting in the necessary work to stay ready for this coming season. He also has the potential to play on the defensive side of the ball at the next level as well, as he had 12 sacks last season to go along with his 46 tackles. He has begun gaining some interest from colleges, but he is looking to rack up more as the season is approaching.

Tell me a little bit about yourself, like where are you from and how old were you when you started playing football?

“My name is Jermaine Williams. I’m from Collins, MS. I play football, track, and basketball. I’m 17 years old.”

Do you play any sports other than football or is it just strictly football for you?

“Track and I just started playing basketball.”

How would you describe a good teammate?

“A person that’s willing to be a leader for the team and set a good example for the people or players that are coming up. The players that the younger kids would look up to.”

What are your main strengths as a defender and as a tight end?

“Just grind and work til the little things are fixed and focus.”

What are some things you can improve on for next season?

“Yards and more tackles and more coaches to come see me play and to see what I have for year 24.”

What are your goals for this upcoming season?

“To get more yards and receiving yards. Going to college and playing at a higher level, and most importantly, getting a state championship ring with my team.”

How has the recruiting process been so far for you? Any offers? Or any interest from schools?

“Pearl river, Co-Lin, and Jones College.”

Why should a college start recruiting you or continue to do so?

“Because I’m not just a regular athlete that just takes care of stuff on the field. I do it in class too, so I’m a player that pushes his teammates to their limits so he can get better everyday.”

Are there any college or pro players that you model your game after?

“George Kittle, Travis Kelce, Justin fields, Stefon Diggs, JaMarr Chase, and Justin Jefferson.”

How do you enjoy playing in Collins’ scheme and is it a good fit for you and your style?

“Yes sir, I enjoy it a lot because I like any position on offense and defense.”

How would your teammates describe you?

“Challenging and and ready to win.”

How do you balance your school and football?

“I do all of my school work from 7:45 to 2:30, and from 2:30 from 6:00 I have football practice, so I’ll have about 3 to 4 hours to finish up any work I haven’t done in those hours.”

Do you have a role model or someone who has helped along your journey so far?

“Football coach and some college player.”

Do you have any football achievements you’d like me to include as well?

“In a 7 on 7 on last Wednesday, I had 3 touchdowns, 55 yards, and 8 receptions.”