James Wright '21 Recruiting Profile

I grew up in a competitive family, as the youngest of four kids i watched my siblings play until I was of age. Competing with them gave me a huge advantage when it was my turn to show what I could do because it always kept me ahead of my age group. Which later on showed coaches I could compete with higher ranking players and I love a challenge. I was raised in the church and was taught to fear no man so intimidation has never played a part in my game when it comes to facing tougher opponents.

When it comes to school, teachers have told me I'm very bright and academically gifted. Although I'm going to be completely honest I did have a rough patch in middle school so I'm working on making a better name for myself and not let the past define who I am. I've never been the type to aim for the bare minimum I always try to exceed my goal because why stop when you can do even better? So I'll continue to progress athletically but also academically, the one my coach told me that stuck is "Student-Athlete...remember you're a student before you're an athlete" and I'll stick by that the rest of my academic career.

As far my athleticism, throughout these last few years I've studied players like Todd Gurley, Tavon Austin, Carlos Hyde, Le'Veon Bell, Ezekiel Elliot and most recently Derrius Guice which is where my number #5 has come from. I was always told that I was too tall to be a RB even though I had the strength, vision, footwork and the little quirks necessary to be one. Originally I was a QB so moving to RB was a bit of a risk but I was willing to take that risk because that's the position I love and every chance I work on perfecting my craft and try to work on my stature. Not only that but I try to contribute on both sides of the field as an LB and SS, I am very level headed so any pent up frustration I use that as self motivation to make me go hard on every play and every drive. Even while doing so I still keep in mind sportsmanship is key because I rather gain the respect of my opponents rather than gain enemies.