The #2 Interior Offensive Lineman In Iowa: Kyle Rakers

Kyle Rakers is a 3 Star recruit who plays Interior Offensive Line at Dowling Catholic High School. Rakers is ranked among the top 900 recruits in the class of 2024 and is ranked as a top 60 Interior Offensive Lineman in the class as well. In addition, Rakers is listed as a top 15 recruit in the state of Iowa and is listed as the #2 Interior Offensive Lineman in the state of Iowa. He holds offers from schools such as Michigan State, Oklahoma State, and Kansas State.

Who are some role models in your life?

My biggest role model is my father. He taught me to fall in love with every sport I’ve played. He’s always been there and is the second hardest worker I know, only behind my mom. He’s helped me through a ton and has been through so much so I can always ask him questions when I need help.

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

For some pregame music I like a lot of rap. Lil Baby, YoungBoy, Nardo Wick, 21 Savage, and Gunna.

What are the strengths of your game?

I think my biggest strength is my athleticism. I can just do things that some guys can’t. I also feel like my motor is higher than most guys we play at the high school level. I can wear them out throughout the game while keeping myself 100%.

What is your favorite memory of your career?

My favorite memory was coming back from down 3 touchdowns in the 4th quarter against our cross town rival my sophomore year. It was a big statement game as our starting quarterback came back after being hurt most of the year.

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

I’d say the best player I’ve played against is Jaylen Pettus. He is currently a defensive end at low Western CC. He was a teammate of mine at Dowling and is insanely quick off the edge. He’s very long and has amazing functional strength. He had a very good year starting most games on the NJCAA championship team. He pushed me a ton my freshman and sophomore years to become a better player.

What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?

I would say if you want to play D1, just don’t get caught up in it. Have fun and enjoy high school football. Don’t beat yourself up. I think you have to be a leader and do outside stuff as well. Your school weight program won’t cut it for the offseason. I think camps are huge too, it’s great to let coaches get eyes onto you. Lastly, respond to every coach, no matter the level. If they hit you up, you better be texting back.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Travel is interesting, I’m not a huge travel guy, but I like pretty views and mountains. I’d say that my dream spot would be Iceland. It’s just so beautiful.

How old were you when you fell in love with the game?

I really fell in love with football at about 5 or 6 years old. That’s when I first started playing and knew I wanted to take after my dads footsteps.

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

My sports hero would be James Laurinaitis, he was my favorite player growing up living in the St. Louis Area. I thought he was the coolest guy ever to be honest.

What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?

My favorite sport moment as a fan would be the 2011 World Series when David Freese hit the big triple in Game 6. That was electric. His home run in the same game is very much up there as well. I was very young but I remember that moment vividly.