By Kyle LoJacono
Freedom’s Josh Tanner will not have to look far to find a former Patriot on the Jacksonville University (JU) football team next year.
The linebacker and defensive end signed with the Dolphins on May 20, making him the fourth Freedom graduate on the current JU roster, including wide receiver Larry Thompson, defensive lineman Rolando Fines and offensive lineman Carl Saunders.
“My friends and mentors from high school are there, so that is a big benefit,” Tanner said. “It’s also a private school, so I get a private school education for free. It just seemed like the right choice because the coaches were very interested in me playing there and it’s a beautiful campus. I have some family that lives in Jacksonville, so it’s just the most opportune spot.”
Tanner started playing football at age 6 and has been on Freedom’s varsity squad the last four years. He had 60 tackles, seven sacks and two fumble recoveries as a senior.
“Josh ran a 4.5 in the 40 (yard dash) at the Nike Combine last year,” said Freedom coach Tchecoy Blount said. “With his versatility and strength, he can be either a linebacker in the 3-4 scheme to rush the passer, or he can put his hand down in the dirt as a down tackle.”
Blount said his value goes beyond his stats and skill set.
“He may not be a vocal leader, but he’s going to always be one of the first guys out on the field, in meetings and in the weight room,” Blount said. “They’re getting a guy who is a workhorse. A guy who will work his butt off wherever they need him. Whether that’s on defense, special teams, practice squad. Academically they won’t have to worry about him, so they’re getting an all around student-athlete.”
Tanner measures in at 6-foot-3, 230 pounds.
“They run the 3-4, so I’d be more of a pass-rushing defensive end,” said Tanner, who will study either aviation or psychology. “If I put on some more weight, which I’m planning to do, I think I can play the run as well.”
His favorite memory while playing at Freedom was beating close rival Wharton 16-7 as a junior. It was one of a program record seven wins for the Patriots in 2009.
“I’ve had a lot of other great memories from playing here and being here is the reason I can play at the next level,” Tanner said. “It’s everyone’s dream to play in college. I’m just lucky enough to be able to do it. I’m very grateful for that.”
–All stats as recorded to Maxpreps.com by coaches.
