Dennis (DJ) Elchlinger '24 Recruiting Profile

Having been raised on a working cattle ranch in northern Wyoming I learned at an early age the value of hard work and the perseverance to finish the job regardless of the conditions. Learning to drive a truck at 8 and a tractor by 10 I was entrusted with responsibility at an early age.I feel by growing up on the ranch I am prepared to take on any challenges life can bring. As a child I played baseball, soccer and basketball. My freshman year of high school is when I began playing football and found a passion for the game. Having not played prior I learned all I could about the game and dedicated myself to becoming one of the best that Sheridan High School has produced. I lettered as a sophomore and made sure that my playing time I had was impactful. Collecting multiple TFL's and forced fumbles. As a junior I earned a starting position and was an honorable mention for all-conference and all-state honors. My senior year as been the best part of my life. We won our third consecutive state title for 4A, I was honored as first team all-conference offensive and defensive lineman, first team all-state offensive and defensive lineman, and named to the Casper Star Tribunes "Super 25" again first team O and D line. Despite all these accolades, I feel my potential for growth as a player, student and as a man is just beginning. As an offensive tackle I have been described as the most explosive with the best feet in the state. On the defensive side of the ball, I used my strength and leverage as an edge rusher and as an interior lineman. Though our system did not have one I feel my speed and athleticism would allow my development as a tight end. I have alway admired how the greatest athletes raise the level of performance of the others around them. I may not be the greatest, but my work ethic, commitment and dedication are contagious. I hope to find a university where I can continue to develop as a football p[layer and as a student.