Rodney Heath Jr. is chasing a dream that few athletes dare to attempt. The former Lakota East High School standout hasn't played a single down of organized football since 2019, but after a decorated college track career, the NFL is calling. Now, the sprinter-turned-pro is making an audacious leap from the track to the gridiron, hoping his elite speed can carve out a new path to the pros.
Heath, whose father, Rodney Heath Sr., played cornerback for the Cincinnati Bengals, is no stranger to high-level competition. After wrapping up at Louisiana Tech in 2024, where he turned professional in track, the itch for football returned. To prepare, he's been training with a formidable group: his father, Lakota East football coach Jon Kitna, and Kitna's son, former UAB quarterback Jalen Kitna.
That preparation led to a pivotal moment. After participating in UAB's Pro Day with Jalen Kitna, Heath received an invitation from the Bengals to their local player pre-draft workout. He was one of 32 players with Cincinnati ties who showcased their skills Tuesday at Paycor Stadium, a full-circle moment for the son of a former Bengal. "Just grace of God, the opportunity presented itself," Heath said. "I just opened the door, and I walked through it."
His athletic pedigree is undeniable. A state champion in the 60-meter dash in high school, Heath went on to earn NCAA All-American Honorable Mention honors at Louisiana Tech. He set a school record with a blistering 9.99-second 100-meter dash and collected a haul of medals at the Conference-USA Championships. He raced professionally until recently, sitting out the indoor track season to fully commit to his football pursuit.
This transition, however, is a monumental challenge. Heath is not only returning to football after a five-year hiatus but is also switching positions. In high school, playing in a run-heavy triple-option offense, he was barely a blip on the receiving radar, catching just three passes for 22 yards as a senior. He actually played more cornerback, snagging two interceptions, but believes his future in the NFL lies on offense. "When I came to the other side to play receiver, it was kind of easier for me mentally," he explained. "I have a defensive mindset coming to the offensive side of the ball."
As he is now two years removed from college, Heath enters the NFL pool as a free agent, eligible to sign with any team. His journey—from record-setting sprinter to aspiring wide receiver—is a testament to raw athleticism and relentless drive, proving that sometimes the most exciting plays begin long after the whistle blows.