Akron East welcomes versatile athlete Marcus Council Jr. from Streetsboro

Marcus Council Jr. runs the ball against the Northwest Indians in 2024. (Photo: Nicholas McLaughlin)

AKRON, Ohio -- One of Akron Public Schools' top football programs, Akron East, will add depth in the backfield and defensive backfield as Marcus Council Jr. transfers to the Dragons for his final high school season. 

Council Jr., a two-way player, just wrapped up his junior season with the Streetsboro Rockets. He played a key role in helping the team reach the OHSAA Division IV playoffs, ending the season with a 9-3 record and earning third-team All-Ohio honors as a defensive back.

On defense, he had six interceptions, 36 tackles, three pass deflections and a fumble recovery as a defensive back for the Rockets his junior year. Those six interceptions tied a school record. 

Offensively, he made an exceptional impact rushing for 851 yards and 13 touchdowns on 91 carries. He also caught 14 passes for 100 yards and one touchdown, according to the Akron Beacon Journal. 

Akron East had just wrapped up its 2025 season as Akron City Series Champions, finishing with a record of 10-3. They are no stranger to playoff football, as they have reached the playoffs the last six seasons, as they play in a city where the private schools retain a majority of the talent in the Akron and surrounding area. 

Head coach Marques Hayes is really hopeful about bringing Council onto his team staff. He believes this addition will make a positive impact.

"Marcus is one of the most exciting players offensively and defensively in the state," said Hayes to the Akron Beacon Journal. "He brings a veteran presence and ultimate playmaking ability on both sides of the ball."

With Doran Grant, a former defensive back from Ohio State, on board, Council will have a great mentor. Grant became part of Hayes' coaching staff after two seasons as the head coach at his alma mater, St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron. 

Marcus Council's transfer to Akron East marks an exciting new chapter in his football career, promising fresh opportunities and challenges ahead. His move not only highlights his determination to grow as an athlete but also brings a wealth of talent to his new team, setting the stage for a thrilling season.