For Larry Ogunjobi, his journey to the game of football was an unconventional one. One that began with a simple mission: getting in shape in order to gain back his video game console; but quickly flourished into a deep commitment to playing the sport at the highest level. Growing up in Greensboro, North Carolina, Larry recalls his journey to the game. "I was significantly overweight at 16 years old. I played a lot of video games and ate a lot...my parents said 'You're killing yourself'. They took away my Xbox and hired a trainer, Robert Mitchell. After training with him for a month or so, one day we were riding home after a workout and he said 'You're going to play football' as we passed (Ragsdale High School)," he says. This was it. Little did he know, but this would be the first chapter to a story that would teach him pivotal life lessons on commitment, tenacity, and vision; and would lead him on a ride to discovering his love for the game. As a sophomore in high school, Larry joined his school's JV football team and officially embarked on his journey in the sport.
After his first season, he had earned the Most Improved JV Player Award—a recognition that was huge to Larry. It was the first time in his life where he felt he had earned something that he had truly worked for. An honor that made him feel like football was something he could really pursue and excel at. It was only up from there. Every day after practice, Larry would go to his local YMCA to train and focus on the three areas his football coach said needed improvement: his speed, strength, and technique. He was on a mission. Over the next two years, Larry earned a series of all-conference honors, helped lead the team to back-to-back conference championships, and received five scholarship offers to play football at the next level. Upon graduation, Larry committed to UNC Charlotte and was part of the program's first recruiting class. Throughout his time at Charlotte, he strengthened his skills on the field and expanded his football IQ—all while pursuing a double major in computer science and biology. He was locked in. From leading the team in tackles to being the first 49er to participate in the Reese's Senior Bowl and receive an invitation to the NFL Combine, Larry continued to foster his legacy in the game. Before he knew it, the chance to play football at the highest level—which was once a slim possibility in his mind—was here. In the 2017 NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns selected Larry. He had done it. Through hard work and dedication, he had secured an opportunity to play the game on its biggest stage. The rest is history! Throughout his time in the NFL, Larry has played for the Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals, and is currently with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Along with his impact on the field, he has also tapped into a series of endeavors beyond the game—including philanthropy, technology, and investment. As he continues his journey in the league, Larry is excited to build his legacy further, help the next generation of athletes and young professionals, and give back to communities through his initiatives and annual events. One thing is for certain: Larry is more focused than ever to keep progressing and getting better on and off the field. He is on...GO MODE!
Let’s dive into your journey early on! You played for UNC Charlotte. What was that experience like for you?
It was pretty unique because I didn't play football (growing up) and I didn't have family that played football. My high school experience was pretty cool and I was the first player from my high school to go to a fairly big school, so I kind of just had to learn everything on the fly. I had really good coaches, one including Aaron Curry—he was the 4th overall pick in the ‘09 Draft to the Seattle Seahawks, and became my D line coach my last two years in college. He's one of the people that really helped the trajectory of my career, and allowed me to do the things that I said I always wanted to do. Just having AC as a confidant, a coach, a friend, a brother, and somebody that has been in that arena and in the places that I wanted to go to really paid dividends for me—as far as moving myself and my career in the right direction.
Throughout your time in college, you made a lot of history as well. You were the first player to participate in the NFL Combine, to get drafted, and you led the team across different areas as well. What did achieving these milestones mean to you?
It meant a lot. Going through it, you want to be the best, you want to set the standard, and I think it's a special thing when you can be the first. You know, you can't take it for granted. So for me, I was just trying to be the best player I could be. I just wanted to continue to have a super high ceiling. I tried to always push the envelope. I always thought to myself like: “There's a lot of people trying to be like everybody else. Why not strive to be different?” That was kind of my motto—just be different. This is harder and the journey may be a little tougher, but I just always told myself that being different would give unique results. You don't get unique outcomes doing regular stuff.
How do you think your game elevated throughout your time at Charlotte to prepare you for the next level?
I got stronger and faster, but I think just from a football IQ standpoint, I just understood the game a lot better. You know, how people were trying to block me, how they were trying to scheme against me, and just understanding the flow of football. It just kind of helps you play faster and allows you to put your best foot forward.
How was that transition from college to the league like for you? What were some challenges that you faced early on?