2024 Countdown to IUFB Kickoff: 22 Days (Jamari Sharpe)

Written by T.J. Inman

We are closing in on just three weeks until Indiana Football kicks off the 2024 season against the FIU Golden Panthers. Today is a double header of countdown profiles and first up is redshirt sophomore Jamari Sharpe.

Jamari Sharpe

Height: 6’1”

Weight: 185 pounds

Hometown: Miami, Florida (Northwestern High School)

Class/Position: Redshirt Sophomore/Defensive Back

Head coach Curt Cignetti and defensive coordinator Bryant Haines knew when they arrived in Bloomington there were many areas of the roster that needed revamped. The secondary was not exempted as the new staff brought in multiple safeties and cornerbacks that are expected to be in the rotation this fall. One of the players they wanted to retain was redshirt sophomore Jamari Sharpe. The Florida native came to Indiana in the summer of 2022 and appeared in three games that season before redshirting. He was a defensive back and wide receiver for Northwestern High School in Miami and helped his school capture the 2019 state title. Sharpe’s quickness immediately stood out in his highlights and he finished sixth in the state of Florida in the 100-meter dash as a junior. 

Jamari Sharpe was thrust into the fire in 2023, appearing in 12 games and earning nine starts as the Hoosiers dealt with injuries in the secondary. His first start came against the Ohio State Buckeyes and their all-star cast of wide receivers. Sharpe performed admirably given the situation and he continued to improve during the campaign. His first interception came against Michigan State on November 18. There were certainly moments where his inexperience was exposed but his talent was apparent and his size makes him a valuable asset moving forward. Curt Cignetti was able to keep him in Bloomington and Jamari Sharpe enters the 2024 season in a position to battle for a starting role or at minimum, a spot in the rotation. 

Heading into fall camp, it would be fair to pencil Sharpe into the rotation along with Cedarius Doss, JoJo Johnson, Jamier Johnson, D’Angelo Ponds and possibly Nic Toomer if the Hoosiers don’t keep him at safety. Competition for snaps will be fierce but Sharpe will have every chance to carve out a meaningful role.

The Hoosier Huddle Countdown to Kickoff continues each and every day so be sure to check back often for the latest profile piece!