The Nogales Star Junior Tackle: Derek Gonzalez
Derek Gonzalez is a 3 Star recruit who plays Offensive Tackle at Nogales High School. Gonzalez is ranked as the 697th best recruit in the class of 2027 and is ranked as a top 60 Offensive Tackle in the class as well. In addition, Gonzalez is listed among one of the top recruits in the state of California and is listed as a top 10 Offensive Tackle in the state of California. He holds offers from schools such as Georgia, Tennessee and Texas Tech.
Who are some role models in your life?
My mom is definitely the biggest role model in my life. She’s the reason I do what I do, and she pushes me every day to be the best version of myself.
What artists do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?
During pregame, I listen to a lot of Journey or Rio Da Yung OG. It’s really random, but it gets me locked in.
What are the strengths of your game?
My biggest strength is obviously my size, but my pass protection is also something that makes me stand out. I’m pretty flexible and have great bend for someone my size.
What is your favorite memory of your career?
My favorite memory of my career was definitely receiving my first offer. My head coach at the time called me around 10:30 p.m., and Coach CJ Pollard from Sac State was on the phone. It was a blessing, and it only drove me to work harder and get better.
Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?
The best player I’ve ever played with is definitely Brady Edmunds. We played together my last year of Pop Warner. He’s a great quarterback with an engine, but he’s also a leader and a great human being. He’s now a 4-star QB and an Ohio State commit.
What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?
Some advice I’d give to aspiring D1 athletes is to not let social media bring you down. Keep your head down and keep working. Great things take time.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
If I could travel anywhere in the world, it’d be Switzerland during winter. I love cold weather, and the scenery is beautiful.
How old were you when you fell in love with the game?
I’ve loved the sport since I started playing when I was five. I can hit people without getting in trouble? Sign me up.
If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?
Peyton Manning. I loved watching him play growing up, and I still do. He’ll always be my GOAT quarterback.
What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?
My favorite sports moment as a fan was when the Denver Broncos won Super Bowl 50. My grandpa and my family are lifelong Broncos fans. Seeing my grandpa so happy was unforgettable.
