Gabe Landers, born and raised in the Memphis area, is making a name for himself as a long snapper for the University of Colorado Buffaloes. At just 22, he has had a career as a nationally ranked player, won a high school national championship, and is just getting started. He spoke about his journey so far and what keeps him motivated as he pursues a career in the NFL.

Gabe was interested in football from a young age, inspired by his father, Chris, who also grew up playing. Between his time playing at Holy Rosary, Lausanne, and St. Benedict, Gabe tried out several different positions, but found he was always best in the specialized snapper position. After his first year of high school at St. Benedict, Gabe was ranked fourth in the nation as a specialist (snapper). He was offered a roster position at IMG Academy, a prestigious sports-focused boarding school in Bradenton, Florida.

At IMG, Gabe became accustomed to a rigorous training schedule. The school was structured more similarly to a university, with morning practice and afternoon classes. “Getting to play with so many of the best football players in the country was huge for my development in the sport. I learned so much, and have seen many of my old teammates drafted in the NFL,” Gabe says. In his junior year at IMG, Gabe and his teammates won the National Championship, and Gabe was named the most valuable player in his senior year.

After being recruited throughout his time at IMG, Gabe committed to play for the University of Miami; however, he decided to “redshirt” his freshman season, and chose to transfer to play for the distinguished Coach Prime, Deion Sanders, at the University of Colorado Boulder. “When I got that call from Coach Prime, I knew I had to go,” Gabe remembers. “He is an amazing coach, amazing guy, and treats his players like family.”

Now, Gabe is entering his third season at Colorado, where he is continually building his skills as a snapper while working on his political science degree. Between seasons, Gabe’s strength coach has him focused more on weightlifting, but he continues to work on his snapping performance daily. “As a long snapper, you don’t get as many plays as other positions, so I need to do well 100% of my plays if I can, which requires constant practice and focus,” Gabe says. In addition to his strength training and practice, Gabe focuses on recovery. He takes advantage of cryotherapy, massages, and plenty of rest to keep him ready to play and injury-free.

Gabe has always had a big focus on the future since he started playing football as a kid. “It is hard to get to the NFL, so always keeping that goal in mind inspires and motivates me. Motivation is never in question for me. Being forward-focused and always planning for the future keeps me showing up and doing the work.”

By Zoe Harrison
Photo by Tindall Stephens