Aubrey Reed already knows how hard it can be to get recognized for the next level. After moving across the country from Pittsburgh to Tacoma, WA, to finish his high school career, the goal driven wide receiver didn’t get many looks to play college ball. Without any offers to start his college career Reed chose to go to College of the Redwoods, a junior college in Eureka, California.

Reed played two seasons at the Redwoods, during which time he was named First Team All-California, and got himself on the radar of some NCAA schools. Finally, getting the looks that had passed over him as a high school player Reed was recruited to Dixie State, a Division II university that competes in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference.

Now going into his senior year, the 6’2″ 203 pound wide receiver told The Gridiron Crew he wants to help his team win the conference, make the playoffs, and earn some personal achievements. “My goals for this upcoming season are to win conference player of the year and to be named to the first team all American list.”

To accomplish those goals Reed is working hard in the off-season, “I have been focusing more on route running my senior year because getting open is one of the most important parts of the game. If you’re not open, the QB can’t give you a chance.” He said the quarterbacks have been working with him on timing and perfecting the routes so they can be more in sync during games, “I think this year the connection will be very good based on all the summer training we’ve put in.”

Training in college football goes way beyond the football field and contains countless hours behind the scenes in the weight room. Plyometrics and speed training are a daily routine to gain power and become a more explosive player. Olympic lifts with Reed’s strength and conditioning coach such as hang cleans, different variations of squats, and bench press are all part of preparation for the upcoming season. Reed is doing all he can to improve his game, “I’ve really focused on stretching more this off season to prevent injuries.”

Staying healthy and focused is important for Reed, especially to achieve his ultimate goal of playing for the NFL. “Being from a smaller school is tough when you are trying to get noticed by professional teams, you have to work and do things twice as much as a big school prospect.”

Reed told the Gridiron Crew that he is doing different things to get noticed, including talking to current and former NFL players. He said he is taking in their knowledge and advice on what he has to do to get there. With his final season of college football ahead of him Reed is ready to achieve his goals and keep working towards the next level.

Follow Aubrey Reed and the Dixie Trailblazers this season here.
Watch Aubrey Reed Highlights here.