Jermaine Stinson’s Army football recruiting came out of nowhere, the Chattanooga (Tenn.) Christian three-sport athlete said.
Army’s interest started after “Scoop” Carter, one of Stinson’s coaches, reached out to the Black Knights staff and director of player personnel Austin Leake. Soon after, Stinson was in contact with Army linebackers coach Justin “Juice” Weaver and they talked for “about a week.”
Stinson received his first FBS offer from Army over the phone Friday and committed to the Black Knights before the call was finished.
“Honestly, I just really liked the coaches and all that comes with West Point,” Stinson said. “I’m able to go and not only get a great education but be prepared for the many challenges in life, That’s a win-win in our book.”
Stinson and his parents had enough time after Army’s initial interest to research the program and the academy to know that West Point would be his next home. Also, his grandfather Howard Stinson had interest in attending West Point when he was in high school.
Stinson held offers from FCS schools Eastern Kentucky, Tennessee State and Tennessee Tech.
“West Point was by far the best choice and I really connected with coach Leake and coach “Juice” (Justin Weaver,” Stinson said. “And from there, we knew what the right choice was.”
Army is recruiting Stinson, who played linebacker/safety and wide receiver at Chattanooga Christian, as a running back. Stinson had more than 1,000 all-purpose yards, 13 touchdowns, 60 tackles, three interceptions and two sacks as a senior. He has not played running back since middle school.
“I always thought when I get the ball in my hands I can do great things,” said Stinson, a three-sport athlete, who also plays basketball and runs track.
Stinson, who is also a lifeguard and DJ outside of football, plans to make his first visit to West Point as soon as possible during the basketball season.
