National Football Foundation

Henry County High School's Jamal-Rashad Patterson displayed a passion for excellence that has allowed him to succeed on the highest level in academics, athletics and as a leader in the community. 

Ranked sixth in a class of 211, Patterson maintained an amazing 4.65 GPA on a 4.0 scale. A member of the National Honor Society, Patterson's impressive list of academic awards includes the 2009 President's Citation Award, United States Achievement Award, National Beta Club, and National Society of High School Scholars. Listed in Who's Who Among American High School Students, he received a prestigious 2009 Watkins Award, which is presented to the top African-American scholar-athletes in the United States. 

On the gridiron, Patterson was a Gatorade Player of the Year finalist, All-State, and the Chick-fil-A Player of the Year. Patterson's career marks at wide receiver include 172 receptions for 3,068 yards and 48 touchdowns. Selected to play in both the Under Armour and U.S. Army All-American games, Patterson was rated a top 25 player by Rivals.Com and Scout.Com while also ranking in ESPN's top 150. 

"A student like Jamal comes along once in a lifetime for a coach because he is well rounded student, an athlete and a role model for the underclassmen," said Mike Rozier, the head coach at Henry County High School. "Jamal is a great reflection of his parents. Henry County High School is extremely proud of him and his off the field accomplishments." 

A top track athlete, Patterson is a three-time state champion in the 300m hurdles and set the state record for the event in 2009. A firm believer in giving back, Patterson played an active role in numerous community service activities and charities, including being a mentor and speaker with several Atlanta area youth groups. 

Patterson attended Stanford University and caught 25 passes for 375 yards and two touchdowns in four seasons. He is currently a product support and process engineering supervisor for UPS.