NAVAL AIR STATION JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – More than 100 children from military families are getting the chance to train with Jaguars linebacker Devin Lloyd at Naval Air Station Jacksonville.
The third annual Devin Lloyd Football Camp brought the families of service members out Monday to see their children get active.
“So happy to be out here. Thankfully, it’s not too hot. Hopefully, it doesn’t rain like a couple years ago,” Lloyd said. “Everything is good so far. Just happy to be here.”
Lloyd, a 2022 first-round draft pick, grew up in a military household himself and said the smiles on the faces of the 120 children at the camp are “what it’s about.”
“It’s about giving back. It’s about using the blessing that God gave you to bless others,” Lloyd said.
The children, like 11-year-old Ariyan Houston, took part in drills to improve their football skills. Houston’s grandmother served in the Navy for many years.
“I’m so excited to be here,” Houston said. “This year I hope to learn more.”
But Lloyd said he wants these young athletes to walk away knowing they can do big things -- beyond football.
“I want to be an example so that one day, they’ll be in my position… and they remember the camp that they went to when they were younger, so that’s kind of my motivation,” Lloyd said.
After hours of play, Lloyd hopes these fellow military kids know they have what it takes.
“They’re gonna have to work hard. I want them to be the best at whatever they do,” Lloyd said. “In order to do that, obviously, (they need) discipline, consistency and work ethic.”
Day two of Lloyd’s camp is from 9 a.m. to noon Tuesday.