5 College Athletes Coaching the Next Generation of Players

First Round Mock’s Victoria Jonach takes a look at what 2023 NFL Draft prospects Jalen Carter, Michael Mayer, C.J. Stroud, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Bijan Robinson and Will Anderson Jr. have been doing to prepare the next generation.

College football players are proving the game is about more than just working on oneself.

Several anticipated draft picks are serving as examples of excellent role models to the younger generation of players.

At this level of competition, athletes often become solely focused on how they can utilize their skills to make it to the professional level. Some can forget to help those in their community, or other individuals who can benefit from their guidance. The following players are volunteering their time and skills, demonstrating they are not only exemplary players, but also exemplary humans.

Who are these selfless athletes?

Jalen Carter

Georgia defensive lineman Jalen Carter returned to his high school to lead his first youth camp in July of 2022. Taking place at Apopka High School in Florida, the 2020 alumni instructed children free of charge.

In an interview with Spectrum News 13, Carter says, “I always wanted to do a camp in the Apopka community. They showed me a lot of support and I told myself that I needed to give back to the community.” He specifically notes his mother, Toni Brown’s help in putting the camp together, saying, “Without her, none of this would happen.”

Michael Mayer

The tight end from Notre Dame is also familiar with the world of youth camps. He and his brother run the “Michael and AJ Mayer Football ProCamp.” Held at Covington Catholic High School in Kentucky, the brothers are familiar with the area. It’s where they attended. In addition to the experience on the field, the Blue and Gold News writes that kids receive autographs, photos, and t-shirts for taking part in the camp. Prices and additional information regarding the camp can be found at the official website.

C.J. Stroud, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Denzel Burke

Not much is known about this event featuring C.J. Stroud, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Denzel Burke from Ohio State. Although, Flex Work Sports Management promoted the event on Instagram, which occurred on July of 2022 in Columbus, Ohio. The company also referred to the event as “inaugural” in a Facebook post. Hopefully young boys and girls will get the chance to experience the camp again this summer.

Bijan Robinson 

This Texas running back is hosting his first youth camp on the 14th of this month. The event was held at the Round Rock Multipurpose Complex in Texas. As part of the package, students will take part in “lectures, fundamental skill stations, contests, and awards.” They will also each receive a camp photo with Robinson, a t-shirt, and other exclusive merchandise. Fans can learn more about the day camp and buy tickets here.

Will Anderson Jr.

Finally, Will Anderson Jr., linebacker for the Crimson Tide also served as a coach for Tuscaloosa’s yearly Nike Football Skills Camp. The 2021-2022 Alabama team captain is seen spreading joy at the event as he celebrates one of his players’ interceptions.

When asked what Anderson hopes the campers took away from the experience, he responded, “Having fun and realizing that even though we have this big platform, we’re still humans. We still interact with little kids- throw the ball, run around and just have a good time,” Anderson said.

The Power of the Sport

In general, if a player can put aside their focus on their personal game and help better the skills of less experienced players in their community, it is very telling of their character. There is a certain patience and expertise required in order to teach children that not everyone possesses. Moreover, it is clear these players are demonstrating varied skill sets and the abilities to shape the minds of the next generation of players.

Not only are these role models providing valuable skills that these children can use in football, but they are also teaching them lessons that can be applied in their everyday lives.

Victoria Jonach is an aspiring writer and media analyst fascinated in what kinds of activities players participate in off the football field. Growing up in New Jersey, she is a New York Giants fan and attends Rutgers University, pursing a career in Journalism and Media Studies. She writes for FirstRoundMock.com covering anticipated draft picks and their acts of volunteerism, entrepreneurship, and other interests that shape these individuals.