HERALD SPOTLIGHT: Jon Rodriguez
Having the opportunity to watch many of the athletes in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties when they begin playing football at the youth football level, the Miami Herald will shine the spotlight on many athletes during the spring and summer.
With the chance to see the athletes away from the football field as well, we can bring you up close and personal with some of the top prospects in the nation - right here in our own backyard.
PLAYER: Jon Rodriguez
YEAR: 2011
SCHOOL: Christopher Columbus
CITY: Miami
POSITION: OLB
HEIGHT: 6-1
WEIGHT: 200
HEAD FOOTBALL COACH: Chris Merritt
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Two years ago when Ceasar Rodriguez played defensive end for the Explorers, many felt that recruiters and college coaches were underselling the impressive prospect. His size, quickness and athletic ability pushed him to the next level, where he will be the starting defensive end for Central Michigan University in the fall.
Now, the third member of the Rodriguez family (following Ceasar and Robert, who attended Central Connecticut) is emerging in the same manner, and like his brother two years ago, many have paid little attention to this play-maker who runs (4.8) well and has become a force as a pass rusher.
Watching him perform this past season, he is always around the ball, has a love for the game and is quicker and stronger than many believe. He is a hard worker who is about to turn heads across southern Florida in 2010.
With schools such as Central Michigan, Appalachian State, Villanova, Eastern Illinois and FIU keeping an eye on his progress, there is no doubt that Rodriguez is going to make an impact once again this coming season as he and his teammates figure to lead the Explorers to yet another district title.
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