<
>

UA jersey tour: Eric Monroe

HOUSTON, Texas – LSU commitment Eric Monroe was presented with an Under Armour All-America jersey on Wednesday, in a ceremony presented by American Family Insurance attended by friends, family and teammates.

At times on Wednesday, Monroe was emotional and seemed taken aback by the honor, after fighting through adversity to accomplish a dream.

“I am truly blessed man,” said Monroe. “I’ve been working so hard. I know last year wasn’t a great season, but I have stayed focused since then. My teammates, my coaches and just focusing on the little things can get you down the right path. What my coaches have said about little things is true -- they can take you far.”

North Shore High School has had a number of players play in various postseason all-star games. For the versatile defensive back, the chance to add to that list and leave a legacy has special meaning.

“It’s just exciting. I’m trying to leave a legacy before my senior year ends. It’s going to be hard to leave my teammates and coaches, but I’ve been truly blessed to be here at North Shore and I’m excited. I’m blessed to be an Under Armour All-America, and excited for the school.”

Monroe entertained offers from all over the country as the No. 64-ranked prospect in the 2016 class. On June 17, the latest in a long line of FBS defensive backs to come out of North Shore High put an end to the speculation, committing to LSU. The reasons for his decision have only strengthened since the summer.

“Just the guys that are there. The coaching staff is great, [assistant] Coach [Corey] Raymond, and the group of guys that I look up to. Coach Raymond played in the league, and I can take in so much from him.”

LSU will have to keep fighting off the competition to secure Monroe signature, however, as he is looking at making official visits to UCLA, Texas, Florida and Texas A&M in addition to LSU.

Four questions with Eric Monroe:

What player are you looking forward to competing with or against in the Under Armour All-America Game?

There isn’t one single player, but everybody. I’m competitive, so everyone puts on those same pants and shoes, and we are going to get after it. I just want to play against a bunch of great guys, man. You can’t be on this stage without playing against the best players in the country, and I’m looking forward to the competition.

If you could start a team with any player in your class, who would it be and why?

Deontay Anderson. That’s been my boy since ninth grade. We are friends, talk everyday and we trust each other. Then one more person, Brandon Jones. A great secondary!

What is your earliest football memory?

When I first started playing, they said I was too small. I think I was five, and they said I was too small to play flag football. I just cried. I remember crying, but now I’m here.

What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

I’m a great person that is learning to work hard every day. School is coming first, then sports. I’m a good person to be around, and joke with.