Effingham County’s Star Junior Safety: Jernard Albright

Jernard Albright is a 4 Star recruit who plays Safety at Effingham County High School. Albright is ranked as the 147th best recruit in the class of 2027 and is ranked as a top 15 Safety in the class as well. In addition, Albright is listed as a top 20 recruit in the state of Georgia and is listed as the #5 Safety in the state of Georgia. He holds offers from schools such as Michigan, Texas A&M and Ole Miss.

Who are some role models in your life?
I would have to say my coaches, my mother, and my grandparents. Since a young age, they’ve always taught me to keep going even through the obstacles life brings! Never give up—even if plan A doesn’t work, there’s always room for plan B to succeed!

What artists do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?
Pregame, you’ll probably catch me listening to some weirder stuff, mostly funk—like Funk Bad Do Bad or Funk Infernal. That kind of music definitely gets me in the mood to go out and kill it!

What are the strengths of your game?
My strengths are probably my elusiveness and being able to come downhill fast. Playing safety, it’s necessary to have the speed to fly downhill with a head full of steam!

What is your favorite memory of your career?
My favorite moment has to be playing in our spring game with my team. Being back with family that cares about you both on and off the field is always a blessing!

Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?
The DB squad we have now—Asante Sheppard, Jaden Praylo, Kris Swinney—is by far the best I’ve ever played with. One who stands out the most is Daimir Hicks, the leader of the defense. He’s a strong man-coverage safety but is most known for coming downhill hard!

What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?
My advice is to keep your eyes on your goal and don’t let anyone influence you to lose focus. If you even slightly take your focus off what you want, nothing will change. Time won’t wait for you, so use as much of it as you can!

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Jamaica, without a doubt. It seems like a very calm place, and I love the Jamaican culture—so Jamaica for sure.

How old were you when you fell in love with the game?
I’ve been in love with the game since about eight years old. Having older cousins who played the sport only made me love it more!

If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?
Either DK Metcalf, Keon Coleman, or Justin Flowe—three amazing players I watch all the time. I’ve learned a lot from them that has contributed to my gameplay.

What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?
Meeting Nolan Smith was my favorite moment. It showed me that no matter where you are or how much you’re counted out, you can make it wherever you want to go!