Pope John XXIII’s Star Freshman Cornerback: Omari Gaines

Omari Gaines is a 2025 recruit who plays Cornerback at Pope John XXIII. Gaines is ranked among one of the top recruits in the class of 2025 and is ranked among one of the top Cornerbacks in the class as well. In addition, Gaines is listed among one of the top recruits in the state of New Jersey and is listed among one of the top Cornerbacks in the state of New Jersey. His top offers are, Penn State, Ole Miss, and Rutgers.

Growing up, were you inspired by any NFL Players?

Brian Dawkins really inspired me.

What songs do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?

I listen to a lot of Lil Baby and Meek Mill.

What is your offseason training like?

I train almost all week with my position coaches, and do weight training. I also ran track this spring.

What is your favorite memory of your career?

Youth football, when me and my teammates won the pop warner national championship 2x in a row.

Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?

I’ve played with a lot of dogs, so I really can’t say who, but it ranges from Malachi Lewis, Kaj Sanders, Jaylen Mcclain, Jaylen Bell, Mekhi Rossingnol etc… a lot of division 1 prospects.

What was your reaction to getting your first offer?

I was surprised and very excited because, I was always the under dog coming up so it was good for me and my family. I just stayed humble and continued to work.

What is your favorite food?

Wings

When did you realize you were talented at football?

I really started taking it serious in like the 7th grade. When I moved from my mom’s house to my dad’s was when I knew the game could really take me far.

If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?

If i could sit down and have a conversation about the game with anyone, it would be with Brian Dawkins. I saw him at an Eagles practice years ago, but I didn’t really get a chance to speak with him.

What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?

When the Eagles won the Super Bowl in 2018.