Norman North's Jaylen Johnson: Driven Athlete of the Month – Presented by Landers Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Norman

Jaylen Johnson is a member of the Norman North football team and he knows what it takes to be considered a character athlete.

“To be called a character athlete means you’re dependable,” Jaylen said. “It means that both coaches and players can look towards you and trust not only that you know how to get things done for yourself, but you can also help out for fellow athlete and make sure they have the tools to get things done as well.”

Norman North football coach, Brent Barnes, is proud of the player and teammate that Jaylen has grown into.

“Jaylen is a quiet leader that leads by example and has really grown into the sport,” he said. “There was a time he wasn’t sure about playing but he made the decision to stay out and go to work and once he got the opportunity last year to play really developed a passion for playing. He is a great teammate and always looking to help others out in any way he can.”

Jaylen has played football since he was in first grade and it has not been easy to get where he is today.

“It’s taken a lot of dedication, both on and off the field,” he said. “Whether it’s being on the scout team to help give the starters on the other side of the ball good looks, or watching film after practice to see what you can do better, or even just keeping your grades in order so you can be on the field on Friday nights. It takes a lot of dedication to the team to be successful.”

Jaylen considers his parents, Alexis and Jay Johnson, to be the biggest influences in his life.

“They try their hardest to mold me into a good person,” he said. “They taught me what it means to have good character, both on and off the field.”

In the classroom, one teacher stands out who has had an impact on Jaylen’s life.

“Without a doubt, it is my English teacher, Ms. Howell,” he said. “She’s taught me to always come at things with a positive outlook, even when times are tough. To always face challenges head on and with a smile on your face.”

Off the field, Jaylen is involved with Young Life.

“It is like a youth group ran by college students,” he said. “Each week during the school year, we meet up for a couple of hours. We play games, sing songs and talk about the Lord. The leaders will also come to the schools during lunch some days to hang out with us and try and encourage other high schoolers to go, I’ve been going since my Freshman year and have only missed a handful of meeting.”