The 11W Community Interview is truly of the people, by the people and for the people. You submit the questions and then we pass them on to the biggest names in the world of Ohio State athletics.
Cleveland Heights four-star wide receiver Jaylen Harris became the newest member of Ohio State's 2017 recruiting class when he picked the Buckeyes over finalists Alabama, Michigan State, Penn State and Tennessee just over two weeks ago.
The 6-foot-5, 210-pound Harris flashed serious potential during his senior year, as he finished with 52 receptions for 820 yards and eight touchdowns. He was named the Greater Cleveland High School Athlete of the Year as a result.
With Zone 6's recent struggles, Harris has a chance to make an immediate impact in Columbus. But first, he sits down and talks with our readers about the recruiting process, the city that made him and more in the 11W Community Interview.
What do you see as your strengths and what areas are you working to improve? - SilverState
JH: “Strength [is] going after the ball. [I'm] working to improve being more physical and blocking.”
Can you describe your favorite high school moment or play? - Avail31678
JH: “This year, I had a big crackback block that I took on two players and my quarterback scored.”
How much do you pay attention to or care where recruiting services rank you? - Krakatoa64
JH: “I actually dislike them and don't pay them any attention.”
What are some things you've taken from basketball and applied to football as you make the transition to college football? - Buckslan
JH: “Basketball helps with certain movements and muscles that I don't use often in football, especially your hips. It also is great for conditioning.”
Why did you choose football over hoops in college? - 1MechEng
JH: “I was getting recruited by bigger and better programs.”
What was the biggest selling point for you when it came to choosing Ohio State? - Krakatoa64
JH: “Being able to stay home and play for my state, O-H-I-O.”
Being an Ohio guy, what's your earliest memory of the Buckeyes? Was there a specific moment growing up that made you decide you wanted to play for them? - Cpfanatik77
JH: “They have always been my dream school. In the past, I loved to see young men from my city play there, especially Ted Ginn Jr. and Troy Smith.”
Who in this year's class are you closest to? Which of your classmates recruited you the most? - BIGTIMEBUCKS
JH: “They're all my guys!”
Can you explain what Cleveland means to you, what you love about it and how the city and its football scene have impacted your life? - Ajskiba23
JH: “I have mad love for Cleveland because this is my hometown, but at the end of the day, I just want to make it so that I can give back to the city that raised me.”
If you could tell Ohio State fans anything about yourself, what would that be? - THE
JH: “Just growing up here and playing ball has changed [me] a lot. It has blessed me with multiple great opportunities. Football is just the vehicle God has given me to drive to be successful. Being from Cleveland has taught me a lot because nothing is granted here, so you have to continue every day to face adversity and strive for greatness.”
Any nicknames in high school? - OSU992
JH: “JRock and J5.”
