During the 2011 NFL draft, the Houston Texans picked J.J. Watt to propel their defensive line into full gear. This 24-year-old defensive end, weighing in at 289 lbs., was Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year (2012). Along with holding many achievements in his career, Watt is the inspiration for senior defensive end and full-back Jake Hall.
Hall is currently focusing in on the Wildcat season, but this future Razorback has bright lights in his future.
“My scholarship and a place to play for the Razorbacks is a great opportunity I’ve gotten from football,” said Hall. “It all just means a lot to me.”
Razorback Coach Bret Bielema found Hall’s work ethic on the field very impressive and one thing leads to the next, Hall committed to playing for the Arkansas Razorbacks.
“I texted Coach Wood and Coach Moreland first to tell them the news. I was just really excited,” said Hall.
Hall’s football career started in the 3rd grade then became more serious when he was in middle school.
The defensive line coach Travis Moreland has worked with Hall for three years. Coach Moreland describes Hall as a quiet and great individual, but on the field he finds his inner fire.
“Jake Hall has desire, passion, tremendous work ethic, and is one of those players coaches just dream of,” said Coach Moreland.
Hall is a huge contributor to the football team, pushing them all to work harder each game.
Junior football player Ricky Dobbins has experienced a lot of playing time with Hall and he finds “greatness ahead” for his teammate Hall’s future.
“He is a great athlete who works hard, which makes me work hard,” said Dobbins.
Although sophomore football player, Treyton Baker, has only played with Hall for one year, he finds colossal inspiration from Hall.
“Jake has massive footwork and amazing hand coordination, he just really is tough shoes to fill when he is gone. I hope to be as good as him one day,” said Baker.
Overall, Hall has impressed and inspired many. From coaches to fellow players, his hard work at practice and on the field has paid off.
Hall’s parents who are Razorback season ticket-holders are just as excited and supportive to Hall for his upcoming spot on the Razorback’s football team.
After Hall’s last season, we will see him off to be a college SEC player. Until that departure, Hall will continue to work with great determination with the football team. Hall is locking in his focus to the upcoming game against Fayetteville.
“We are not backing down. And we will prove them [Fayetteville] wrong.”