HS Player Spotlight: Eli Sawyer, Vestavia Hills (AL)

Eli Sawyer is a rising senior at Vestavia Hills. He trains with Coach Ben Neill/QBC Birmingham. He currently holds offers from several Division 1 schools. For Eli’s highlight reel, click here. 

QBC: What part of your game have you been working to improve on this summer?

ES: I have been working to improve the quickness of my feet and to speed up my feet in the pocket so I can get the ball out quicker.

QBC: Who are some players you try to emulate your game after?

ES: I try and emulate my game after Ben Roethlisberger and Jake Fromm. I like Big Ben because of how he delivers throws while the pocket is collapsing in on him. He is one of the game’s best at standing tall in the pocket and delivering darts all around the field. I like Jake Fromm because of his QB Country roots and the way he manages the game. As a true freshman he managed the game against Oklahoma and ‘Bama like a fifth year senior. Even though they came up short against ‘Bama, he did a great job. 

QBC: What is your favorite football memory?

ES: My favorite memory is from my second game as a starter on varsity. The Spain Park game was so much fun. It was tied 21-21 with about seven seconds left and I found my tight end in the back of the end zone for the win. It was by far my favorite game I have ever been a part of. 

QBC: What is your proudest accomplishment?

ES: My proudest accomplishment was receiving the most improved player award as a junior on the football team. I felt proud as I was voted on by my coaches. 

QBC: What is the best piece of advice you have received?

ES: The best piece of advice I have received is honestly about football. I have been told by my coaches and mentors to always be patient. On the field and especially in the recruiting process. I know my time is coming and it is all about staying patient. 

QBC: Who are some of your mentors?

ES: My mentors are my dad, Ben Neill, and Steve Genetski. My dad especially because he has always pushed me to be my best at all times, even when times get hard. 

QBC: Where are you in the recruiting process?

ES: I have two offers from South Alabama and Eastern Kentucky. I would like to sign with somebody in the early signing period in December. I would like to have a great senior year before that though. 

QBC: If you weren’t playing football, do you have any other passions or hobbies you would be pursuing?

ES: I would probably be just playing baseball and spending time with my family. Honestly, I don’t have a lot of time on my hands so I would spend more time with my family if I wasn’t playing football.

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Q & A by rising University of Maryland freshman Sam Oshtry.