As he prepares for his senior season, Putnam County offensive lineman Jabius Farley is taking advantage of every opportunity to improve his game and pursue his goal of playing football at the next level.
Farley recently attended recruiting camps at Kennesaw State University and Shorter University, where he competed against other prospects, received instruction from college coaches, and gained valuable feedback that he hopes will help him during his final high school season.
At Kennesaw State, Farley said he felt he performed well as he learned new techniques to elevate his game.
“I feel like I did well,” Farley said. “The coaches were good to me. I learned a lot from them and learned a lot of new things I can improve on for my skills going into my senior season.”
The experience also gave him a chance to evaluate areas where he can continue to grow.
“I feel like my body language wasn’t correct when I was up there,” he said. “But overall, I feel like I did well.”
At Shorter, Farley said he received similar feedback from coaches.
“They told me I just need to get in better shape and improve on a few things to be better as an offensive lineman and make it to the next level," he said.
One area where Farley believes he showed improvement was as a pulling guard, a role that requires offensive linemen to move laterally and block defenders in space. Coaches also helped him adjust his stance.
“What they told me is that sometimes my stance is too wide,” Farley said. “All I need to do is squeeze that back foot in a little bit, and it’ll make it easier to block the opponent in front of me.”
Beyond the technical instruction, Farley said competing against talented players at the camps helped him better understand what it takes to succeed.
“I feel like it made me better,” he said. “It helped me understand more about what I need in my position and helped me learn more going into my senior season.”
As he enters his fourth and final year with Putnam County, Farley credits head coach Joel Harvin for helping him develop, both on and off the field.
“I’ve learned a lot from him,” Farley said of Harvin. “He’s a great coach. He’s always pushed me to the limit and never given up on me. He’s always there when I need him.”
Farley said his three years playing under Harvin have been memorable.
“My three years playing football under him have been great,” Farley said. “It's been amazing, and I hope this senior season will be even more amazing.”
While many high school players focus on a specific level of college football, Farley is keeping an open mind about his future. His primary goal is just to find the right fit and continue his football career after graduation.
“Honestly, I wouldn't mind playing any of them,” Farley said. “Whatever school fits me, I’m willing to work with any coach, learn from them, and go out and perform.”
With camp season providing valuable lessons and motivation, Farley said he hopes the work he’s putting in now will help him make the most of his senior year.