2025 Player Profile: Getting to know Berwick DT/LT James “JJ” Leonard
Tagged under: District 2, News, Player Previews
Billy Splain | June 10, 2025
James “JJ” Leonard
DT//LT
Berwick Area
Class Of 2026
Jersey #56
HT/WT 6ft, 260lbs
31 solo tackles and 6 TFL
First team WVC defensive tackle
Twitter @Jjleonard50
Coach says: “JJ Leonard is a coach’s dream. He will be a four-year starter for the Dawgs and is one of the main anchors of the trenches on both sides of the ball. He is a natural leader, loves the weight room, and has tirelessly worked on technique and his IQ of the game in the off-season. The sky is the limit this season for JJ”.
Let’s get to know James!
Why do you play football?
For the love of the game.
Who is your favorite sports star and WHY?
Sean Taylor, I grew up watching his highlights.
Do you have a favorite play you remember the most? Explain:
Probably my first snap of Varisty football, I alwalys dreamed of being a Dawg and that moment I finally could say I was.
What was last years season like for you?
My best and favorite season so far and a huge step in the right direction but we have unfinished business this year!!
What are your goals for this coming season?
16-0, and All state selection
Who is the best player you ever lined up against?
Harrison Snyder
What game, yours, college or pro, was your favorite game you watched and why?
I loved watching Washington beat the Lions last year in the playoffs, Because I grew up in Virginia a huge Washington football fan!
Describe what the perfect teammate is
Hardworking and committed.
Tell everyone why you think football is good for a community
It builds relationships,,trust, and respect.
Name one thing that you’d love to do in football that may never happen?
Score a touchdown
Who is your mentor, the person you want to be like? WHY?
My coach, Always pushing for greatness
What is your favorite practice drill? What is your least favorite practice drill?
Favorite is probably 1on1s, and I love all practice drills!
Preseason Two a Days are:
Offensive in morning defense in afternoon
Is there anyone in your family, besides your parents, you could consider your biggest fan? Who, Why?
My cousin, he comes to all my games.
When you aren’t playing, practicing or training for sports, what is your go to activity and why?
Playing pickup basketball. I love playing basketball and getting extra conditioning.
What is your favorite play to run?
A Slant or stunt on the Dline.
is a hot dog a sandwich? If not, then why?
No, it has its own special bun
Music of choice:
Rap
Best thing you ever got from a teammate? Why?
Criticism, it makes each other better.
Best Pizza topping?
Pepperoni
What is your favorite vacation destination?
Hawaii
Do you remember what the first football game you saw was?
Washington Redskins football game when I was 4
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