Senior running back Jacques Patrick has officially committed to Florida State University. After endless debate about where Patrick would attend, he announced his decision Monday, Oct. 27 in front of a full gym of fans.
FSU had been recruiting Patrick since he was a freshman at East River High School. Throughout Patrick’s career, FSU head coach Jimbo Fisher and offensive line coach Rick Trickett gained his trust by consistently reaching out after games. After all the good game texts and official visits, they eventually convinced the young runner to accept their invitation to Tallahassee. “I could tell I would get taken care of at FSU,” said Patrick. “It’s a great opportunity on and off the field. It feels like home there.”
However, the young phenom’s journey began long before he met Florida State coaches. Patrick first played football when he was nine years old after watching his older brother Javonte Seabury excel at the sport. Seabury was supposed to attend FSU as well, before ultimately playing for Western Michigan University.
Patrick is working hard to make sure he graduates this January. In order to participate in the Seminoles’ spring practices and prepare for his freshman season, he will have to enroll at FSU early. “I have goals that go far beyond high school. I have to stay grounded and continue to work hard. I want to play college football. I want to be drafted into the NFL,” said Patrick.
The senior back has definitely stayed grounded despite all the publicity and accolades. Rather than making the announcement solely about himself, he chose to share the day with his younger brother Peter Hayes by announcing his decision on Hayes’ birthday. “He asked me to share it with him. I thought it would be cool to celebrate together,” said Patrick.
With Patrick’s senior season winding down, he became the first running back in Central Florida to run for over 2,000 yards in three separate seasons. He has racked up over 7,542 total career rushing yards in four seasons.
It looks as if he will surpass Central Florida high school football star Willie Green on the states’ all-time rushing yards list. Green finished his career with 7,947 yards, the most ever by a Central Florida running back. Patrick will move into fourth place on the state’s all-time rushing list with only 405 more yards. Just ahead of him on the list, Pro-football Hall of Famer Emmit Smith.
However, with the local fame comes expectations. “I don’t feel any pressure. People want you to live up to their expectations, but I just go out and do what I can. I don’t let other people’s opinions bother me,” said Patrick.
Some compare Patrick’s violent and relentless style of running to backs like Herschel Walker. However, maybe it is his work ethic that should be compared to greatness. “You have to work incredibly hard.
I’ve dedicated my time to get better and separate myself from other running backs. To have success during the season, you have to put the time in during the offseason. You have to want it more than the next guy,” said Patrick.
