If you’re unfamiliar with the name of D.J. Pickett, let us introduce him. Before that, don’t be mistaken to think of him as another random high school kid! He is the No. 1 defensive back in America and has been making noise in the recruiting world of football. The Zephyrhills, Florida native already had offers from the top colleges before joining the Tigers and is already being considered one of the best in the 2025 class.

However, all this wasn’t just handed over to him overnight. This five-star safety has a strong athletic background, as the majority of his family is already in the game. Although his family members have played football at various levels, they also have always made sure that they’re always available for the young standout throughout his professional and personal life.

Family: the pillar of support for Pickett

The top source of motivation for this young athlete is his uncle, Ryan Pickett. His uncle played at Ohio State. His father and cousins have both played football too. As we all know, there’s always a woman behind every successful man. Pickett, however, had his mother not behind, but alongside him throughout his journey. His mother, Tammie Pickett, has played a vital part in his journey. It was Tammie who always inspired D.J., to keep his feet on the ground and focus on his goal.

Tammie has held the importance of education and hard work while being positive about her son’s recruiting process. Moreover, she also made sure that Pickett was not focused on money or fame, but rather on his personal growth and development. It was through this sheer hard work from his mother that J.D. was molded into a kind and hard-working individual. Last year, in an interview with The Wolverine’s EJ Holland, she also cleared her stance on the NIL deals that players are so focused on these days. Tammie said, “It’s about doing what you love. The money will eventually come to you. You’ll get paid for your performance, and you’re an amazing player. I think parents need more education on it.”

“A lot of players are getting caught up in NIL, and they are making the worst decisions of their lives, even to where it affects their future NFL contracts.” She further added.

The past, the present, and the future of Pickett

It is without a doubt that J.D.’s performance has brought him a lot of attention from the recruiting process. Even though his mother wanted him to commit to Michigan, the young star has finally decided to make Louisiana his second home. Pickett stated that his connection with LSU secondary coach Corey Raymond helped him choose the college. “Me and Corey Raymond have a good bond,” Pickett told ESPN. “I’m a big relationship guy. And LSU is DBU. Playing defensive back there is a blessed spot to be in.”

Well, now, you know we mentioned that this kid ain’t ordinary! He has also been ranked No. 14 in the ESPN 300 rankings. When asked about his reason for selecting LSU over Miami or Oregon, the 6’4 star mentioned, “Coach [Corey] Raymond went to LSU — I always liked LSU, but it’s just other things to it. When Coach Raymond got there, I was real excited.” Het then added, “I grew up watching LSU and how their DBs played, and he played a big factor in that. He just keeps it real with me.”

How do you think J.D.’s career would pan out? Let us know in the comments below.