He was born on April 10, 1998 in West Grove, New Jersey. He stands six feet and weighs 190 pounds.

He attended highschool at Woodrow Wilson. During his junior year in 2004, he recorded 58 tackles, 7 interceptions and 4 forced fumbles, and also passed for 1,763 yards with 15 scores and ran for another 10 Touch Downs.

In 2005, he was named a 2005 Parade All-American, USA Today All-USA first team, EA Sports All-American first team, Super Prep Elite 50, Prep Star Dream Team, ESPN 150, Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Super Prep All-Northeast Defensive MVP, Prep Star All-Eastern, Gatorade New Jersey Player of the Year, All-State first team, Philadelphia Inquirer South Jersey Defensive MVP and All-Conference selection as a defensive back and quarterback. Recorded 82 tackles, 10 deflections, 7 interceptions, 4 forced fumbles and 3 fumble recoveries in 2005, plus threw for 1,700 yards with 14 Touch Downss and ran for 195 yards with 2 Touch Downs.

The death of his brother became his inspiration to work hard and excel in his chosen sport.

He attended USC in the spring of 2006 and he will serve as a key backup free safety as a first-year freshman in 2006.