Charles Gunnings Jr.

Accomplishments & Impact
What would you say is your biggest accomplishment in your athletic career so far, and what did it take for you to achieve it?

My biggest accomplishment in my athletic career so far would be being able to play on the varsity level as an underclassmen and being able to talk to college scouts. I achieved these accomplishments through God’s will and my determination to grind to improve my skills.

Role & Identity as a Player
How would you describe your playing style, and what separates you from other athletes in your sport and your position?

 I play with a purpose , i’ve always felt like i’ve been seen as an underdog because of my size but my will is so strong I do everything with an intent and aggression when i’m on the field. I’ve always been told by coaches that I am a very coachable player as I am able to quickly adapt to whatever is at hand and execute properly.

Development Curve
What is one area of your game you’ve significantly improved over the past year, and how did you develop it?

I’ve really improved on being able read and recognize offensives schemes and plays over this past year . Watching film and taking notes on upcoming opponents has definitely helped me develop this skill as I grow and learn as a defensive player.

Adversity & Resilience
Tell us about a challenge or setback you’ve faced in your career. How did you respond, and what did you learn from it?

A major setback I faced was getting injured during my Freshman year of Highschool and not being able to play the rest of my football season that year due to injury. It was a heartbreaking moment for me because I really wanted to play but I just learned to keep my faith in God and to take care of my body the right way.

Training & Preparation
What does your current training routine look like, and how are you preparing specifically for the May 30th combine?

Right now i’m in track season but i’ve also been lifting weights in the gym and doing football workouts with my team . Im consistently working on my craft whether it’s my strength, speed and agility in preparation for the combine.

Short-Term Goals (Combine Focus)
What are your specific goals and expectations heading into this combine?

Right now my goals going into the combine is to run a solid 40 yard dash time and get a good vertical measurement. I always know that measurements and time can improve over time but Im really going into this combine to show I got what it takes to be recruited at a high level.

Long-Term Vision
Where do you see your career going over the next 2–3 years, and what steps are you taking to get there?

In 2-3 years I see myself playing in college as I continue to grind and keep my grades up as a student athlete. I hope to continue to elevate as a player and be able to compete and succeed to be the best at the college level of play. 

Football IQ & Leadership
How do you contribute to your team beyond your physical performance—whether that’s leadership, communication, or understanding the game?

I’m a big fan of watching film so communicating on and off the field with my teammates is a key way I contribute to the team as we build bonds with each other we grow and help each other understand are assignment and alignment on the field. 

Recruiting & Exposure
What are you hoping coaches and scouts take away from your performance at the combine?

Im hoping coaches and scouts can see my potential and true abilities to develop and improve my performances as I continue to grow as an athlete.

Motivation & Mindset
What drives you to keep pushing and competing at a high level, especially when no one is watching?

I would say my determination to be the best that I can be drives my will to push through adversity and to give everything 100% in everything I do. Even when no one is watching , people are always expecting results so that’s why I go hard and attack everything with a purpose.