OSU recruit, mired in controversy, dislikes publicity

Growing up as a 6-year-old and getting introduced to something that would change my life forever, blinded me at the time.

As years passed I got better physically and mentally as a football player, and fell in love with the game. I realized that football is something that I want to be a part of for years to come.

The love of the game influenced me to work hard and to be the best running back I could be. Being the best suddenly came with a lot of ups and downs. My biggest pet peeve is losing and I have never been a fan of the spotlight, anyone that truly knows me knows that I am humble.

The college recruiting process began for me during my sophomore year in high school. At age 15, I had to realize that I was being introduced to a lot of good and bad people that were entering my life.

I learned that the coaches and recruiters may as well be salesmen that tell you what you want to hear, after all they are selling dreams. The toughest part is realizing the real from fake. Born and raised in Detroit, I was heavily influenced to go to the University of Michigan. When I made the decision to sign with the Ohio Buckeyes, overnight everywhere I went; I felt like I disappointed a lot of people.

Reporters and news commentators, radio stations, social media and even some of my own family voiced their opinion about my decision. Although I felt good about my decision, I was criticized for it by people I thought had my best interest. But everything happens for a reason and I will always represent where I'm from in a positive way and never forget where I came from.

I don't take away from anything I have learned thus far. I have accomplished a lot of goals that I set for myself, however, I still have a long list to finish. No looking ahead for the future and no looking back; one day at a time.