'I was born for this sh*t' - why Fred Kerley chose track over a potential NFL career

'I was born for this sh*t' - why Fred Kerley chose track over a potential NFL career

Mark Kinyanjui 18:30 - 15.01.2025

Fred Kerley played American football back in high school as a corner back who "liked to hit people' but chose the world.

Fred Kerley the reigning American bronze medalist and 2022 World Champion in the 100 meters, recently opened up about his decision to forgo a potential career in the NFL to pursue a path in sprinting.

With a rich athletic background and natural talent that spans multiple sports, Kerley’s journey reflects his unwavering belief in his destiny to dominate the track.

Growing up in Texas, Kerley’s athleticism was apparent early on. The six-foot-three sprinter excelled in basketball and football, playing cornerback and safety for his high school team. However, his trajectory shifted when he began running track, initially competing in the 200m and 4x100m relay.

Kerley’s college years marked a turning point. His talent in the 400m emerged, earning him indoor and outdoor NCAA titles. By the time he reached the global stage, he had established himself as one of the fastest 400m runners in history, securing bronze in the event at the 2019 World Championships in Doha and gold in the 4x400m relay.

Despite his success in the 400m, Kerley transitioned to focus on the 100m and 200m in 2022, seeking to boost his speed. The shift paid off spectacularly, as he won the 100m World Championship that year, adding to his collection of medals from the 2020 and 2024 Olympic Games.

Kerley’s sporting prowess runs in the family. His younger brother, Mylik, is also a top-tier 400m sprinter and ran alongside Fred in relays at Texas A&M University. 

His older brother, Demarea, competed in sprints and jumps at the high school level, while his sister, Virginia, represents Texas Tech in the long and high jumps. Adding to the family’s pedigree, Kerley’s cousin, Jeremy Kerley, played as a wide receiver for the New York Jets in the NFL.

Reflecting on his initial love for football, Kerley shared on the first season of the Netflix-produced SPRINT:

“Football was my first choice. I actually played cornerback. I like to hit people, but God had other plans for me. He told me track was the way I was going to be the best.”

Kerley’s confidence in his abilities has been a defining trait throughout his career.

“I always knew I was fast. I knew I was going to be the best. Any track meet, any event, I was going to win it. I am a boy born from Texas, I was born for this sh*t!” he declared.

This mindset has propelled Kerley to the top of his sport, cementing his status as one of the most versatile sprinters in history.

However, Kerley’s journey hasn’t been without setbacks. On January 2, 2025, the sprinter was arrested in Miami on charges of felony battery against a law enforcement officer, as well as misdemeanor counts of resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.

After a contentious hearing, Miami-Dade Judge Mindy Glazer found probable cause for the charges of battery and resisting arrest but dismissed the disorderly conduct charge. Kerley, 29, was released on his own recognizance the following day.

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