Jason Collins Jr., a former all‑metro high‑school standout from the Baltimore‑Washington area, announced his transfer to the University of South Florida (USF) this week. The move brings the 5‑foot‑9, 190‑pound running back to Tampa, where he will join the Bulls’ backfield for the 2026 season.
Why the move?
Collins explained that the distance from his family in the Washington, D.C. region made the decision challenging, but he felt a fresh start in Florida would benefit his football development. “It was a little difficult because that’s where all of my family is based and they were able to see my games,” he said, “but I felt like it was a better choice for me to just get away and restart somewhere else.”
Connection to a local legend
Collins also cited the influence of Elijah Brooks, a former DeMatha Catholic player and William & Mary star running back, who now serves as a coach on USF’s staff. “He recruited me and he is like a legend where I’m from,” Collins noted, adding that Brooks’ presence helped seal his decision to join the Bulls.
College production to date
During two seasons at Morgan State, an FCS program and historically Black college in the Mid‑Eastern Athletic Conference, Collins amassed 1,064 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, along with 31 receptions for 205 yards. He also contributed on special teams as a kick returner, a skill he continues to refine in USF’s preseason practices.
Coaching perspective
USF offensive coordinator Brian Hartline praised Collins for his work ethic and attentiveness. “He wants to be coached hard,” Hartline said, describing the junior as quiet but highly observant. “He’s very alert and notices everything that is going on. He cares about his body of work.”
Academic and entrepreneurial goals
Off the field, Collins is a business marketing major with aspirations of becoming a journalist. He also expressed interest in starting his own trucking company after graduation, noting that a marketing background would be essential for any future venture.
Looking ahead
As USF prepares for the upcoming season, Collins expects to face a formidable defensive line anchored by players such as Major Dillard, Asani Redwood, and Ryan Jenkins. “They’re probably going to be the best line we go against,” he said, adding that daily practice against them sharpens his reads and blocking techniques.
Collins emphasized his love for open‑field running, recalling advice from Coach Brooks: “Once you get the ball in the open field you have to be an artist with it.” He plans to apply that mindset as he seeks to make an immediate impact for the Bulls.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
