Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Jackson Snelling

Fall football practice officially began Monday across the state with non-contact work — including for rising junior Jackson Snelling. The Cardinal Mooney offensive tackle enters this season with serious momentum on the recruiting trail. He boasts 28 offers from NCAA Division I programs like Louisiana State University, Florida State, Clemson, Penn State and Wisconsin. In 2025, he became a champion for the first time when the Cougars won the FHSAA Class 2A state title. Snelling is the Sarasota Athlete of the Week.

What did you focus on this summer to prepare for the fall?

Just correcting little things in my technique and working on my strength.

What goals do you have for your junior season?

To win another state championship.

What will it take for this team to go back-to-back as state champions?

Everybody is going to have to play a key part on the field. We're all going to have to put in 100% on and off the field. During practice, we're going to have to go hard. 

When and why did you start playing football?

I started playing in sixth grade. I played flag and I was like, "I want to play tackle." My first season — after my first game — I just fell in love with it, so I just kept playing.

What are your best attributes as an offensive tackle?

My pass protection, how athletic I am, being able to get out on blocks and just being able to read the defenders.

How has your game improved since sophomore year?

My game is really in my IQ. I'm way smarter now. I know all the plays and know what to do. I'm definitely more mentally prepared (for) this season. 

Why have you stuck with this sport over the years?

The love I have for the game is more than anything else — besides my parents and God. If I'm not playing football, then I'm either training for football or in the weight room getting ready for another season. It's one of those things where I just can't leave it.

What's a fun fact about you not many people know?

I grew up playing baseball, actually. That was my main sport. I grew up in Sarasota, but I was originally born in Baton Rouge (Louisiana). My family moved here when I was 1 year old.

Who is your favorite professional athlete and why?

Dion Dawkins. He's my hero o-lineman. I just love the way he moves. Honestly, he's got the coolest nickname (The Shnowman) out of all of them. He's definitely my favorite, and then also, Trent Williams. I grew up watching both of them.

If you could go anywhere for a dream vacation, where would you go and why?

Japan. I want to see Tokyo, the whole city and all that. Japanese food is also my favorite food.

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would you eat and why?

Sushi. You could eat unlimited sushi. It's just the best food. 

Finish this sentence. Jackson Snelling is...

Dominant.