WRs a real catch at Junior Day
HOUSTON – Players from all corners of the state of Texas came to Saturday's Rivals.com Junior Day at Rice University. Once there two outstanding prospects found out they share something in common – the burning desire to be the best receivers in Texas and two of the best in the entire country.
Meet, Bryan, Texas, standout receiver Artrell Woods and Humble, Texas, standout Jerrod Johnson. While many other players stood out among the 80-plus players in attendance, it was the Woods, who just picked his first offer from Texas A&M and Johnson, a two-sport star committed to Texas A&M, that were the headliners.
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Much of Woods' success both on the field and in the classroom can be attributed to his coach's guidance. Woods admits that Bryan coach Marvin Sedberry has had a big impact on his growth.
"All of this recruiting stuff and success on the field is because of his inspiration," Woods said. "When he came to work with me during my junior year, I learned a lot about improving my discipline, my attitude, and my work ethic."
Woods who measured in at 6-foot ¾ and 183 pounds is looking for what most are looking for in their senior year and that is improvement on his junior performance.
"Well, having a 1,000 yard receiving season is important, but there is more to it," Woods said. "My coach has made me a player that tries to make everybody else work harder and push myself at the same time. Success as a team is what's important."
The 6-foot-5 ½, 219 pound Johnson also turned heads with his impressive frame. With a verbal commitment already in the books, the big Aggie commit still gathered plenty to work with during this weekend's event.
"Well yeah, this has helped because you never know what can happen with recruiting," Johnson said about his junior day appearance. "I'm fully committed to Texas A&M, but I have to keep my options open just in case."
"Basically, I found out just how important it is to always show every school interest no matter what, because it could come back to help you."
One thing that makes Johnson very special is his talent at multiple sports which has helped him on the basketball court and on the football field. The talented prospect says that finding a favorite is tough.
"Football and basketball are about even with me to tell you the truth," Johnson said. "Texas A&M said they would be fine with me playing both so that looks like a good situation."
With his recruitment out of the way, it has given Woods an opportunity to look ahead to his final senior season where lofty standards have been set.
"I want to win a state championship and get that ring on my finger," Johnson said. "Last year we were kind of sub par after being ranked real high, so now we just want to rebound."
As for that guidance that every young player needs to be successful, the talented Lone Star athlete gives his dad big recognition.
"My dad has had a lot to do with my success," he said. "The most important things he has taught me are to always look at every option, watch what you say to everyone, and be confident in your performance."
"I have those intangibles that most people don't have because my dad is a coach and it's given me a lift with understanding the game better than others already."