The Top Sophomore Defensive Tackle In Ohio: Reinaldo Perez

Reinaldo Perez is a 4 Star recruit who plays Defensive Tackle at Columbus Academy. Perez is ranked as the 166th best recruit in the class of 2027 and is ranked as a top 15 Defensive Tackle in the class as well. In addition, Perez is listed as the #5 recruit in the state of Ohio and is listed as the #1 Defensive Tackle in the state of Ohio. He holds offers from schools such as Tennessee, Kentucky and Louisville.

Who are some role models in your life?
There are so many people who’ve helped guide me on my journey, but my biggest role models are my dad, mom, and grandma. My parents have made countless sacrifices and always stood by me through thick and thin. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. My grandma is also one of my greatest inspirations—even though I never got the chance to meet her, she built a strong foundation for our family that I’m forever grateful for. I hope she’s looking down on me and proud of the man I’m becoming.

What artists do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?
My go-tos before a game are Gunna, YoungBoy, and RioDaYungOg. Their music always gets me in the zone and locked in for the task ahead.

What are the strengths of your game?
I’d say my biggest strengths are my football IQ, versatility, and athleticism. I have a great understanding of the game, especially when it comes to reading down and distance. My ability to switch between speed and power gives me multiple ways to attack, and my athleticism helps me execute at a high level.

What is your favorite memory of your career?
My favorite memory is from this past season’s opener against CHCA. We were down two touchdowns with seven minutes left, but we fought back and scored a game-winning touchdown in the final moments. That game showed our heart and how much we believed in each other.

Who is the best player you have ever played with or against in your career?
The best players I’ve faced are the Luniewski Twins, who now play at Michigan State. I matched up against them as a freshman, and that experience really sharpened my game.

What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?
Absorb as much knowledge of the game as possible and surround yourself with people who genuinely care about you. The more you understand football, the slower and more manageable it becomes. And always trust those who have your best interests at heart—they want to see you win.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I’d love to visit Paris. It’s always been a dream of my parents to see Europe, so I want to make that dream a reality for them.

How old were you when you fell in love with the game?
I fell in love with football when I was 7. Before that, I played soccer and baseball, but once my dad introduced me to the game, everything changed. I’ve been all in ever since.

If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?
I’d love to meet J.J. Watt. I’ve looked up to him for years and tried to model my game after his. His explosiveness, leadership, and impact on and off the field make him one of the greatest defensive ends to ever do it.

What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?
My favorite moment was watching LeBron James become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. I’ve been a fan of his since his Cleveland days, and seeing that achievement was special.