In 2023, Jake Godfree was an impact player getting reps on the varsity as a freshman, but now this season, the sophomore is downright defensive dynamite. Godfree is a thumping hitter on the field, always getting a great beat on the play and tackling with thunderous results.
The impact plays are consistent, and just last week, Godfree made one of the best plays of his career with a 64-yard interception returned for a score. Godfree’s impressive return had the linebacker splitting the pursuit between two guys and dragging the last tackler 5 yards into the endzone, capping off the great play with a score.
The pick-six earned Godfree a spot in the weekly top play video, and on Monday night, he was voted the #3 play of the week. We talked to the sophomore linebacker about how the season has gone so far.
“Sophomore season has been amazing really is a blessing from God to be in the position I am in right now. It really shows all the hard work that I’ve put in and it’s showing off and I just wanna keep building on that foundation for the years ahead too,” he said.
Through six games, Godfree has 43 solo tackles, 8 tackles for a loss, 3 sacks, and 6 hurries to go along with 2 more interceptions. His incredible performance last week earned him Defensive Player of the Week by the Gwinnett Daily Post.
His impressive production is part in parcel from the hard work Godfree poured during the offseason.
“The spot where I feel like I’ve most improved is my explosiveness and being able to see everything on the field at one time from reading my keys from guard to running back,” Godfree said about where he improved the most.
The progress is evident on film where Godfree is getting a better jump on the play, showing better acceleration to the ball carrier. He closes the gap well and shows fundamentally sound technique when attempting a tackle.
For a 6′ and 200 lbs. linebacker, Godfree relies on his great field awareness and top-flight technique to consistently reach his responsibility, so he is always in the right spot. Colleges have noticed the high IQ, and he already holds a slew of FBS offers.
“Recruiting is going great for me; I currently have 21 D1 offers. It really is a blessing to be here. I’m not officially allowed to talk to college coaches because I’m only a sophomore but next year I will. The most contact I’ve probably had with a school currently is Ohio State.” Godfree also added, “Georgia, Clemson, and Georgia Tech have also been recruiting me and have been asked to go to several games.”
The college interest will only grow, especially if the North Gwinnett sophomore continues his current progression arch. Plus, the opportunity to play for the #2 team in 6A, and have the chance to compete for a state title will only cast a brighter light on the sophomore.
“My goals for the rest of the football season is first as a team I wanna win the State Championship.” Godfree continued, “Personally though, I wanna be a vocal leader on the team and help my teammates. Another one of my goals is to lead our team in tackles again this year. I just wanna keep balling out and give the glory to God,” he said.
With the football season turned upside down from the hurricane last month, North Gwinnett has already played and won their Week 9 matchup against Berkmar 35-0. Next, they will face off against Meadowcreek on October 18th before the big matchup and likely region championship against Norcross on October 25th.
The stakes will be high for that rivalry game, and standouts like Godfree will be leaned on to make impactful plays, so be sure to follow @RecruitGeorgia on Twitter/X to hear the latest on Godfree and players across the state.
