3 Eastside Players Sign to Play College Football

Three Eastside High School football players took the next step in their athletic journey Wednesday by signing their National Letter of Intent to play college football.

In front of a packed media center of family and friends at the school, Orian Ellis (Warner), LeMarion Houston (Florida Memorial) and Kaleb McKinnon (University of Charleston) confirmed where they will play this coming fall.

“It’s very rewarding,” Ellis said. “After all the work you put in … it’s rewarding that I finally got here.” 

Ellis’ seven passes defended were second on the team this past season to help the Rams’ strong secondary.

Houston’s dominance on the defensive line brought the rest of the unit together, totaling 6.5 sacks in his junior season to rank fourth in the district. But he is not settling for what he has accomplished in high school. 

Houston emphasized his mindset as he heads to Florida Memorial is on “getting better and going to the next level,” hoping to one day play professionally.

Just as Ellis and Houston were integral to the Rams’ defensive success, McKinnon was key in the passing game, hauling in eight touchdowns his senior season, while tacking on another on the ground.

His explosive play was evident, averaging 23.3 yards per catch this past season.

“All the practices, the dedication … it paid off that I got the opportunity to play at the next level,” McKinnon said.

These players were driving forces in what has been a strong Eastside program over the last four years, boasting a 32-14 record in that span, including a 9-3 season and the Class 3A-District 5 title, under coach Harold “Gator” Hoskins.

Category: Eastside High School, High School Sports