Hazly making impact at linebacker for Rattlers

Jibreel Hazly preparing for the first home game.
Photo submitted by Angel Miller.

When a boy is introduced to sports at a young age, and if he stays consistent with it, he develops this desire to turn this hobby into a dream of eventually becoming a professional athlete. That’s the case for Florida A&M University football player Jibreel Hazly.

Hazly is a 23-year-old student from Akron, Ohio playing linebacker for the Rattlers.

Football runs in Hazly’s bloodlines as he started his career at a young age and has been playing for over 15 years.

“I started playing (football) when my dad signed me up to play for his old team he used to play for when he was a kid,” said Hazly. “He signed me up for the game when I was 6.”

Family is important to Hazly as it is his biggest support system.

“My family encourages me with their unwavering love and support,” said Hazly. “My parents like telling the whole city about how I am doing my thing in football and knowing that they are watching me and placing all bets on me, motivates me to be the best I can be for them.”

Hazly is also a transfer student from Feather River College in Quincy, California.

“I transferred from Feather River College because I got hurt and FAMU still wanted me to play for them despite my injury. FAMU believed in me and my abilities to become a major part of the Rattler defense,” said Hazly. “FAMU is also an HBCU and I love it.”

Hazly practices a strict physical and mental football workout regimen.

“I wake up with a positive mindset and healthy breakfast, consisting of eggs, turkey bacon, slice of toast, orange juice and water. Afterwards, I run a mile before I work out with a gallon of water then do some type of lifting. Once I have done my morning workout I go to class, chill, eat, or rest for the remainder of morning. I have field workouts with the team that afternoon/evening then I go and eat again and watch football film, mentally working out being sure not to wear my body out physically,” said Hazly.

Hazly motivates the players on the team.

“He’s a good football player and a good guy overall. He is a hard worker and a lot of the younger guys look up to him,” said Desmond Noird, former Rattler football player.

“As a teammate, he makes you want to do better. He’s going to push you until you have no more to push,” said Orlando McKinley, a cornerback on the team who is also a kick returner and punt returner.

Hazly hopes to play in the NFL after graduation and is working hard to be ready.