By Eric Detweiler,
Playing slot receiver,
DuVal’s
Jamaal Woodland earned a starting spot on the varsity team during his sophomore season, impressing Coach Dameon Powell with his soft hands and precise routes.
When Woodland, now a 6-foot-2, 180-pound junior, added defensive duties for the first time in the fall, it didn’t take the coach long to realize the dynamic athlete might instead have a future on the other side of the ball.
“Big, tall corners that can run [are] kinda the fad now going around,” Powell said. “He’s definitely that guy.”
Earlier this month, Woodland orally committed to Toledo, picking the Rockets over offers from Towson and Old Dominion. Powell said Toledo cornerbacks coach D.K. McDonald took an early interest in Woodland before he became the first recruiter to offer a college scholarship in January.
Though Woodland has not yet visited the Mid-American Conference school, Powell said the cornerback took his time researching his suitors. He ultimately decided to make an early commitment to a coaching staff that had earned his trust.
“He liked the direction they’re heading in,” Powell said. “I think he was comfortable with [McDonald] and excited about the future.”
Woodland recorded 36 tackles, four interceptions and 10 pass breakups as a junior and also added five catches for 93 yards and two touchdowns on offense. (Check out his
Hudl highlights here.)
Powell said several other Football Bowl Subdivision schools have continued to expressed interest in Woodland and one BCS conference school even offered a scholarship this week.
“He was very happy to hear that,” Powell said, “but as of right now, he’s pretty sold on Toledo.”
