Athlete of the Year

My name is Jaden Echols. I am a 6ft 235lb linebacker at Livingstone College. I am 3-year starter and a 3X All-CIAA linebacker. I believe that I have an elite level football IQ and adaptability to play football. In my 3 years playing football at Livingstone College, I have accumulated 273 tackles and 26 tackles for loss in 26 games. I was awarded team MVP and Academic Player of the Year for the 2021-2022 football season. I currently have a 3.4 GPA. My teammates and coaches can attest to my leadership by example and not just words. I communicate well with others and handle pressure very well. I am a team player and want to see my entire team put forth a winning effort. I am coachable and able to follow directions well. Some of my personal traits include being positive, hardworking, reliable, disciplined, and personable. I have great vision and play recognition. I am also an effective secure tackler.

Off the field I am a well-rounded student-athlete. I am a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated. As a math education major, I am a dean’s list student who spends my free time assisting math teachers in the Rowan-Salisbury School District. I have a passion for uplifting youth, and I do so by volunteering with Salisbury Parks and Recreation to both coach youth football and tutor math students.

After college my number one aspiration is to further my career in football by becoming a professional football player. I would also like to continue working with the youth by hosting summer camps that provide sports training and academic development.