2025 Interview with Drayton Allgood, Chardon High School

 

Drayton Allgood

Chardon High School/Chardon, Ohio

QB/CB/Slot

2026

5’9 175

Jersey Number: #10

Awards won or earned: First Team All Conference

HUDL LINK: http://www.hudl.com/v/2QnLSV

Other sports played: Basketball

Please post a small recap of last season with something like a big game you had, something about a certain game, something from a bus ride to or from the game, or something that sticks out from a practice.

Last season, one of the most memorable moments for me was our trip to Florida. It was my first varsity start, and we got the win against a big-time program in Timber Creek. That game really boosted my confidence and set the tone for the rest of my season. The whole trip was a great experience—not just the game, but traveling with the team, staying together, and spending time at Universal Studios. It brought our team closer and created a bond that carried over into the rest of the year. That week was definitely a highlight of my high school football career so far.

What is the biggest memory you have from playing sports?

The biggest memory I have from playing sports so far was getting the opportunity to play in the state semifinal game as a 10th-grade cornerback. Being out there with some of the greatest teammates I’ve had, in the incredible atmosphere of the state playoffs, was something I’ll never forget. That experience showed me what it truly takes to compete at a high level in high school football and pushed me to work even harder toward my goal of playing at the next level.

What are your personal goals for the season?

My personal goals for the season are to be the best player I can be so our team can be successful. I want to contribute on both sides of the ball—not just by being productive offensively, but also by stepping up as a leader on our defensive unit. I’m focused on doing whatever it takes to help us win.

What goals are you setting for the team?

At Chardon, the expectations are always high. With the program’s tradition and three state championships, the most recent being in 2022, we understand the standard.

As a team, our goals are

Be a 4th-quarter team:

Win the conference.

Make a deep run at a state championship: We’re not just playing for wins—we’re playing for legacy.

Play with discipline and purpose: Stay locked in, do our jobs, and represent Chardon the right way on and off the field.

We know what it takes, and we’re committed to doing the work every day to live up to the expectations that come with wearing the Chardon jersey.

In watching your Hudl package, you look very fast, and once you take off, there isn't any dancing around; you just go downfield. As a quarterback, is there a college or pro quarterback that you pattern your game after?

I’ve always looked up to Lamar Jackson. I’ve been watching his highlights since his college days at Louisville. What stands out to me is how he’s able to make explosive plays with both his arm and his legs, and how decisive he is when he takes off—there’s no hesitation. I try to bring that same mindset to my game: when I see an opening, I hit it full speed and look to make a big play.

How would you describe your style of play as a quarterback?

I’d describe my style of play as a versatile, dual-threat quarterback who can make plays with both my legs and my arm. I use my athleticism to extend plays and pick up yards on the ground, but I also take pride in reading the field and delivering accurate passes when the opportunity is there. I try to keep defenses guessing and always look to make the right decision based on what they give me.

One last thing from your Hudl package. I noticed that when you are in the shotgun, you do not always have your feet set the same way. So many high school QBs seem to have their feet set one way when passing and another when running. Do you even think about how you are setting your feet when lining up in the shotgun?

Last year, I actually changed the way I set my feet in the shotgun after my coaches noticed it helped me receive the snap more cleanly. The new stance felt more comfortable and allowed me to get into my drop or run quicker. Since then, I’ve focused on keeping my feet consistent on every play, so I don’t tip off the defense. It’s something I definitely pay attention to now because even small details like that can make a big difference at the varsity level.

What has been your biggest accomplishment as a high school football player?

My biggest accomplishment as a high school football player has been earning scholarship offers to play at the next level, including from Slippery Rock and Gannon University. Since early in my high school career, I knew I wanted to play college football, and I’ve worked hard to put myself in a position to make that happen. Being part of a strong program at Chardon, surrounded by great coaches and teammates, has played a huge role in helping me grow as a player and reach this point.

What type of defense do you like picking on the most?

I like when teams load the box and dare us to throw the ball. A lot of defenses try to stop our Wing-T offense by committing everyone up front, which opens up opportunities in the passing game. When that happens, it gives me a chance to be versatile—whether it’s making a play through the air or taking advantage of the space they leave behind. I see it as a challenge and an opportunity to make big plays.

Turf or grass?

Turf

How important is it to you that the team not only get along on the field but off of it too?

It’s very important that the team get along both on and off the field. Strong relationships off the field lead to better communication, trust, and chemistry during games. At Chardon, our coaches put a big emphasis on team bonding and building that connection through different activities. That foundation plays a big role in how we play for each other when it matters most.

What makes you a good teammate?

What makes me a good teammate is my love for the game and my understanding that football is a team sport—you can’t win without the people around you. I try to lead by example by being the hardest worker at every lift and practice, showing up early, and staying late. I also make it a priority to communicate with my teammates and keep everyone locked in. I’ve been fortunate to learn from some great leaders on past Chardon teams, and I try to carry on that standard every day.

Why should a college coach recruit you?

A college coach should recruit me because I truly love the game of football, and I’m all-in on doing whatever it takes to succeed. I play quarterback for Chardon High School, but this summer I competed at multiple college prospect camps as a defensive back—and earned two Division II offers based on my performance. That experience shows my versatility and willingness to do whatever it takes to help a program.

I bring a combination of athleticism, leadership, discipline, and a relentless work ethic. I take pride in being the hardest worker at every practice and lift, being the first one on the field and the last to leave. I’ve learned from great leaders in Chardon's program and understand what it takes to play high-level football. I’m a dual-threat quarterback who can make plays with both my arm and my legs, but more importantly, I’m a dependable teammate who’s coachable and competitive every snap.

And beyond the field, coaches won’t have to worry about me in the classroom or on the weekends. I handle my business, stay focused, and represent my team and school the right way. Football isn’t just something I do—it’s what I love, and I’m ready to prove myself at the next level.

After the season, if you are invited to play in any of the all-star games, will you?

Yes

Who has the best fast-food burger?

I’m not a big burger guy, so I don’t really have a favorite fast-food burger spot. But I do love Chipotle—I go there pretty often. Can’t go wrong with a good bowl.

What is your favorite holiday?

I don’t really have one favorite holiday, but I enjoy all of them because they give me a chance to spend time with my family. I have a big family, so any holiday where we’re all together is something I look forward to.

Have you been to a Cleveland Browns game?

Yes

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