Darrell Colbert Jr. has transformed from an aspiring quarterback considered too small for the position to one of America’s most sought-after QB trainers. His journey, filled with incredible accomplishments and one-of-a-kind experiences, is a testament to his hard work and love for the game.
Given his size (5-foot-11, under 190 pounds), the doubts about Colbert early in his career. Multiple Division I programs, including Missouri, Iowa State, and Yale, recruited him, but it was Southern Methodist University (SMU) that welcomed him as a quarterback. Yet his father, Colbert Sr., remembers all the trouble that his son faced while growing up for his size.
Despite these obstacles, Colbert’s talent shone through. He worked out with stars like Deion Sanders. Not only did Deion mentor him, he officially endorsed him as Shedeur Sanders’ trainer. From this decisive turning point, new opportunities began to arise for Colbert in the highly competitive world of quarterback training.
Colbert’s experience with high-profile quarterbacks is extensive. One of his most notable students has been Shedeur Sanders, known for his swag as much as his skill. He’s coached D’Eriq King, current record holder for career passing touchdowns in Texas Class 6A. Florida’s Kyle Trask, another Heisman finalist, is just one of the many big names on the list. Texas A&M’s James Foster, Houston’s Logan Holgorsen, and Kyron Drones—future signal-caller for both Baylor and Virginia Tech—all warrant consideration as well.
As a young quarterback, Colbert attended Elite 11 camps. Unlike his fellow entrants, he remained one of the very few trainers of color in a mostly white space. His experience uniquely qualifies him to relate on a personal level to young QB’s face down the same trials that they’ll be navigating. He brings a special perspective that appeals to those who may be on the fringes of the sport like he is.
Colbert’s rehearsals are intense and last some days until 10 p.m. He runs two-hour sessions aimed at quarterbacks of all levels. This even extends to high school athletes, junior college players, HBCU prospects, and Division I transfers. His eurythmic approach feels rooted in the principles of movement and fluidity as opposed to structure and oppression.
“It’s just adding more movement into it, making sure we stick and moving, not just being robotic with everything.” – Darrell Colbert Jr.
Keisean Henderson, one of Colbert’s students, values how his tough love approach is tempered. Henderson notes of this approach that Colbert expects accountability from his players. He approaches all of this in a disarming manner, fostering innovation without intimidation.
“I’ll say it’s still tough love at the end of the day. It’s a different way of tough love though. So it’s more so laid back.” – Keisean Henderson
Beyond training, Colbert stands as an emblem of the hardships historically encountered by young Black quarterbacks. Players like Ashford illustrate the need to have a mentor and advocate who understands these players’ unique journeys to success.
“So just being around somebody who’s done it at the D-I level and is a Black quarterback, you want to be around those types of people because they understand the struggle, they understand the grind.” – Ashford
To his athletes, he instills the belief that if they want to be great, they better understand what it takes to get there.
“if you want to be great, here’s the steps to take to be great.” – Keisean Henderson
Even in this show of admiration, Colbert is careful to address the stereotypes that have long shadowed quarterbacks of color. He confronts these biases head-on, advocating for his players while demonstrating that talent transcends preconceived notions.
“Everybody wants to say, ‘Oh, we can’t play quarterback. Oh, you should go play a different position,’ just because…the color of our skin.” – Ashford
Colbert’s rise as a respected trainer reflects his commitment to honing young talent. In addition to being a mentor, he is an advocate for diversity in the sports and recreation field. Now, as he molds the next generation of quarterbacks, his journey is an inspiration to all.
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