"Voltage Under Center: Electric, Fierce, and Built for the Big Stage "

JD Gillum

@JDGillum22

5’11”, 182lbs, Class of 2029

Norris Middle – Going to Anderson County High School (TN)

There’s something different about this quarterback. JDl is electric in motion and deadly with the ball in his hands, he brings a dynamic blend of firepower, finesse, and field command that sets him apart from every other QB his age. His arm is flat-out explosive, golem even, capable of launching darts into tight windows with a lightning-fast release that gives defenders no time to react. JD moves like a track sprinter in cleats, slipping out of pressure and attacking defenses with his legs when the pocket collapses with dazzling speed. But what really separates him is the fierce combination of athleticism, poise, and a football mind that stays three steps ahead. JD is versatile enough to beat you in a shootout or a scramble, and crafty enough to dissect coverages like a surgeon with a knife. His style is electric. His presence is commanding. And his game is already built for the brightest lights.

Even with a season sidelined by injury, JD didn’t pause he pivoted. Last spring he tore the growth plate in his throwing elbow, and just when he returned, a sprained ACL shut down his season after one strong game. But those injuries lit a fire. He dove into training and rehab with purpose, using that downtime to get bigger, faster, and stronger. He studied film, mastered coverages, and turned a hard year into fuel. What looked like a setback became a stage for growth mentally, physically, and spiritually.

JD trains year-round and plays 7v7 with two teams: Code Blue, made up of future Anderson County teammates running the same system, and NPA Dream Team, a high-level national squad stacked with elite talent from multiple states. The balance between chemistry-building and nationwide competition gives him an edge few others can claim. Playing against top-tier talent around the country has accelerated his development and earned him visits to schools from Miami to Southern California while helping him form connections with college coaches and recruiting services like Rivals, 247Sports, and On3.

Prior to each snap, JD is calculating, identifying pre-snap indicators, making protection calls, and preparing for run-pass options. He’s fluent in the language of coverages and understands how to exploit every soft spot with timing and touch. Nothing is random. Every decision is fast, confident, and rooted in high-level preparation.

With four D1 offers already on the table, (Ole Miss, Maryland, Southern Miss, and Georgia State), his belief in playing at the highest level is backed by real interest and real preparation. He’s visited dozens of schools and has thrown for several Power Four programs that expect to extend offers once he officially enters high school. This spring and summer, he’ll continue taking visits, including stops at Georgia, Georgia Tech, and Georgia State.

Coaches can expect a quarterback who will always be prepared, always give maximum effort, and always be the best teammate possible. The discipline to stay ready, the selflessness to put his team first, and the hunger to grow daily are what make him special. The advice JD would give others is to give your all, make it about others, and stay focused on something bigger than yourself.

What makes a school stand out to JD is Culture. Coaches who are Godly men, environments where character and purpose matter just as much as wins and stats. One of the best lessons he’s ever received came from Coach Jamey Chadwell at Liberty: “Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.” That quote now shapes how he lives and prepares.

I assess that JD brings a rare balance of physical talent, elite football IQ, and deeply rooted leadership. His arm strength is matched by his vision. His legs give him versatility, but his eyes always stay downfield. He doesn’t rattle. He’s precise, calculated, yet explosive when the play breaks down. His ability to command an offense, lead with confidence, and perform under pressure makes him one of the most complete young quarterbacks in the country.

What separates him now will only expand moving forward. With high-level reps through national 7v7 competition, early D1 offers, and a deep grasp of the game’s finer points, his transition into high school football won’t just be smooth, it’ll be dominant.

Expect him to take the reins at Anderson County quickly, elevate everyone around him, and continue rising on the national radar. His ceiling is high, but his work ethic and discipline will be what push him through it. Whether it’s Friday nights, Saturday stages, or beyond, he’s built to lead, built to win, and built to last. The kid with the golden arm is going to make a lot of noise early and often. JD is certainly more than hype and a stud you gotta get on board his train now as its gonna continue to pick up steam and a stock rising machine. Stay tuned.