ROCKINGHAM — The parallels between the Richmond Raider and Methodist University football programs are what helped lead Jarod Morrison to verbally committing on Monday.
The Richmond Senior High School wide receiver became the eighth member of the class of 2021 to verbally commit to the college level.
Five players, including Jaleel Davis (OL), Dalton Stroman (WR) and C.J. Tillman (LB), signed in December, while Tremel Jones (WR) and Trevor Moss (K) verbally committed this spring.
Morrison made the announcement on Twitter, adding that he was “110% committed” to head coach Keven Williams and the Monarchs.
“I’m relieved to be able to verbally commit,” Morrison said. “I had a lot of people asking and I knew I had a deadline to pick where I wanted to go to college. Looking at my options, Methodist was the best decision for me and my family.”
During a recruitment process that was impacted by the pandemic, Morrison said he also had offers from other schools like Greensboro College, North Carolina Wesleyan College and Clarke University in Debuque, Iowa.
Last August, Morrison went on an unofficial visit to Methodist, and received an official offer to the Division III program in January, just before the Raiders started their spring season.
“I really considered my other options, but I went with Methodist because I really felt like it was the best team for me,” Morrison explained. “They represent a lot of what I believe in and their coaching staff holds the same high standards that we have at Richmond.
“I’ve been in green and gold during high school and it felt right to continue to represent those colors,” he added. “Methodist is closer to home and I know I can keep my grades up because the coaches want me to be successful.”
Morrison anticipated having a breakout year during his senior season, but the Raiders’ schedule was limited to just five games, including the playoffs, due to COVID-19 protocols. But he managed to catch three passes for 82 yards and one score this season.
Against Lumberton High School, Morrison hauled in a 43-yard catch and run over the middle to help the Raiders roll to a 48-8 win.
“Jarod is a gifted wide receiver who has had limited opportunities during his career,” Richmond head coach Bryan Till said. “I am thankful he is getting a chance to continue playing and earn a degree. I think his best days will be in front of him.
“Jarod has great length and understanding of the game,” Till added. “He is a hard worker who is just as willing to make the tough block as the tough catch. He is a true all-around football player.”
During the pandemic, Morrison said he stayed positive because he knew the potential he has to make an impact at the next level. He also credited Richmond’s wide receiver coaches Andy Shuler and Greg Williams for continuing to push him during workouts, practices and games.
“I knew an offer would come, I just had to remain positive,” Morrison said. “My mom and dad kept me motivated and I kept working out and practicing hard.
“I’m a hard worker, an aggressive receiver and my best quality is my toughness,” he added. “I have good route running and want to get faster. My height and build will really help me make catches over corners.”
Competing in the USA South Conference, Methodist went 4-1 this past spring in its shortened season. The Monarchs’ lone loss came to Huntingdon College in the USA South Conference championship game.
Morrison plans to major in sports management and minor in business, noting he has an interest in real estate. His biggest goal, however, is to make it to the NFL, and he said fulfilling that dream starts when he reports to the team later this summer.
