Picking up ‘legacy’ recruits are a popular, yet difficult phenomenon in collegiate sports. The Louisville football 2021 class dipped into that pool when they landed Jaraye Williams, son of former-Cardinal basketball star Terrence Williams, on May 30th. However, Scott Satterfield and company were not finished; just three weeks later, the staff received a commitment from TJ Quinn.
The Valdosta, Ga. native is the son of former Louisville running back/defensive back Terry Quinn, who played from 1991-94. However, the younger Quinn acknowledges the sentiment and tradition, but is ready to make a name for himself. “It’s good to be able to follow in his footsteps and possibly be better than him.”
Despite receiving his first offer in June 2019, his recruitment did not necessarily take off until the dead period was relieved this past January. Since then, the three-star safety has been offered by Kentucky, Appalachian State, Colorado, NC State, Illinois, Virginia Tech, Boston College, Syracuse, Washington State, and others.
Blessed to receive an offer from my Dad’s Alma Mater… THE University of Louisville!!🐔 #L1C4 #GoCards @ChadSimmons_ @Mansell247 @CoachDNic pic.twitter.com/kfpYvigjpR
— TJ Quinn (@tjquinn0415) May 2, 2020
However, the offer from Louisville on May 2nd was one that held a ton of weight. Since then, the Cardinals’ staff has made him a priority, and he joined the class just over a month later on June 18th. “I felt like Louisville was the best situation for me as a student and an athlete. My dad playing there was just a plus; I can get a top education there and also excel on the field,” he explained. “My closest relationships on the staff are coaches (Derek) Nicholson and (Shadon) Brown. They keep it real with me; we have conversations about what’s happening in real life and also how I can be so dominant on the field.”
Since his commitment, Quinn has continued to hear from schools, like NC State and others. However, he is solid in his pledge to Louisville, which is great news for the 2021 class. “This class is going to be special and you will be able to see that in the next couple years; everybody has the same mindset to win a national championship,” Quinn explained as he discussed his high expectations for the class. Satterfield and the rest of the coaches on staff have done an exceptional job identifying under-the-radar prospects, and Quinn fits the mold perfectly.
The 6-foot-1 safety may not be rated extremely high, but it’s no question that Quinn has a ton of potential. His extreme burst and quickness, along with his ability to read opposing quarterbacks well, allows him to make plays in all three levels of the field. Quinn is a hard-hitting defensive back that excels at tackling in the open field. “I am a hitter, but I can also cover well. My game is so versatile and that’s what Louisville loved about me,” he explained. “I can play several positions; expect me to play different roles in the defense.”
For Quinn, the decision to become a Cardinal was strictly business, in more ways than one. Playing collegiate football is a dream come true, but he remains grounded and focused. “As a player my mindset is different,” Quinn said. “I believe in coming in and handling business, but also having fun. After all, I believe in getting the job done and that’s what I’m coming to do.“ However, the drive doesn’t just pertain to football as Quinn is as dedicated in the classroom as well. “I want Cardnation to know that they are going to get my all in the classroom and also on the field; there are big things coming soon at Louisville.” Quinn’s mindset reflects the poise and attention to detail that leads to high levels of success in the future, and it looks like the Cardinals have found another humble ambassador for not only the university, but the city as a whole.”
