Before members of Virginia Tech's 2016 recruiting class headed off to college, we caught up with them to learn more about the future Hokies. This is No. 5 in our series.
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 295
Position: Offensive Lineman
Hometown: Cincinnati, OH
Junior College: Mississippi Delta C.C.
Rivals.com Rating: 5.6, three stars
Rivals.com Junior College Ranking: 79 overall
Recruited by: Vance Vice
Has your size changed at all?
I am 6'6" and 308, well 300. I don't like 308 so much.
What does your workout routine entail?
I've been focusing on my shoulders, trying to get those strong and mostly upper body.
What do you plan on working or improving on through this summer?
My leg strength, I've gotta get that done. And hand placement, when I'm in pas protection. I need to get better in all aspects, but mostly those areas.
How would you describe your playing style?
Determined, I guess. I wouldn't say I have athletic superiority, I'm just determined that my quarterback is protected. My roommate is actually Jérod (Evans), so we're already on good terms. But whatever it is, I'm gonna do what I can to make sure he's alright. Everyone has a part on the team and if the offensive guard doesn't do his part, then it all falls apart.
What are some of your goals for your first season at Virginia Tech?
My academics are gonna have to come first. I've gotta make sure I get that done, hit up all the early study halls. Sports-wise, just keep my dedication, hear what Coach Vice has to say. I know he's a great coach and what he tells me is gonna help me. If I take that and apply it, I know I'm gonna get better. And I have to make sure I stay on top of things, like academics.
What player or team are you most looking forward to going up against?
That's a good question. There's a few I wish I could play. Not anybody I know from the other teams we play. I'm looking forward to that Bristol game at Tennessee. That's gonna be awesome.
What's your favorite food?
For me, I don't think it's out here in Virginia, but have you ever heard of Skyline Chili? That's top of the food chain for me.
What is your favorite movie?
Are you familiar with animé? That's my favorite stuff. I grew up on it.
What is your favorite TV show?
'That 70's Show' and 'Friends.'
What's the one song you're getting amped up to before a game?
I have a whole playlist. That's a bunch. I'd say this song called 'Sweet Victory' by Trip Lee.
What would be three words to describe you?
I'll say unique, I don't really think of myself as athletic. I'd say artistic and grateful.
If you could date any celebrity, who would it be?
Ariana Grande. That's my dream, future wife.
If you could go toe to toe in the ring with anybody, who would it be?
Anybody? MMA, I would say...I think I can handle myself in the ring with Brock Lesnar. He's a huge dude, but I think I can take him. I might have to use some time.
What's been your most memorable experience playing football?
Really, it's when I first got to Mississippi Delta and our first game. We got to walk on the field and in the stands before the lights came on. Then, the lights came on and I just knew right there. I looked around, envisioned my mom, grandma and everybody cheering me on. It gave me that energy to go out and play the way I was supposed to. We took an 'L' but we played hard. When I finally made it, I was just thankful for football and it was just overwhelming.
What's the one thing you learned from your recruitment that you would pass on as advice to a future recruit?
Basically, just stay humble. Don't let any of it go to your head. The letters, they keep coming, coaches keep calling and just don't let it go to your head.
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