On the COVID recruiting trail Part 5

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High school football players across the country are fighting to be seen on the recruiting trail during a pandemic that has taken away their chances to be seen by coaches across the country. The Sumter Item met with football players from Sumter, Lakewood and Crestwood who have had their recruiting process affected by the coronavirus pandemic to see how they've maneuvered through this process.

JAIREN ROGERS - SUMTER SENIOR LINEMAN

NOTEWORTHY OFFERS: Has one offer from Otterbein College

What would it mean to you if you're not able to play football in the fall?

It would mean a lot. It would probably hurt a lot. It's my senior year, and I'm trying to get some college scouts to look at me. It would hit hard if we didn't play.

It will mean a lot to play, so colleges can look at me to see if I have the potential to play at the higher level.

If it is ruled no football will be played in the fall, but will be played in the spring, would you consider graduating early and go on to college?

I'm in a position where I can (graduate early and go on), but I'd rather stay and play in the spring so I can get more offers.

How much do feel the shutdown has affected the recruiting process for you with its limitations, and how much do you feel it has helped or hurt you?

I think it hurt because coaches come to watch summer practice, and that's a big hurt because I want be able to go out there and practice for the summer. They won't be able to see the talent we had without the pads and stuff. It hurt a lot. It kind of helped the coaches talk a little more, text you a little more, but it definitely hurt.