Fritz Pollard Alliance Member Spotlight: Jalen Myrick

For Fritz Pollard Alliance member Jalen Myrick, the road to the NFL was never about shortcuts or overnight success. It was built through persistence, humility, and an unwavering commitment to growth. Those qualities continue to define his journey today as a College and Pro Scout with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Born in Kansas City and raised in a military family, Myrick’s path into football came later than most. After moving to Columbus during high school, he discovered a passion for the game that quickly evolved into a deeper interest in player personnel and scouting. While playing college football at John Carroll University, Myrick immersed himself in the culture of football operations and personnel evaluation, inspired by the university’s long lineage of NFL executives and leaders.

Understanding early that breaking into scouting would require sacrifice, Myrick spent his college years pursuing unpaid internships and gaining experience wherever opportunities existed. His experiences ranged from marketing departments and stadium operations to personnel internships with the Senior Bowl. His persistence eventually opened the door to the Chiefs’ organization in 2019, where he has steadily climbed the ranks over the past seven seasons.

Throughout the conversation, Myrick repeatedly emphasized a lesson that defines both his career and the values of the Fritz Pollard Alliance: success in football is rooted in relationships, preparation, and humility.

I never told people no, Myrick shared. I was always the first one in and the last one out. People notice intentional work.

Myrick also spoke candidly about the importance of mentorship, particularly as a minority working in professional football. Veteran leaders within the Chiefs’ organization helped him navigate the challenges of proving himself while remaining authentic and grounded. Now, as his own career continues to advance, he has embraced the responsibility of mentoring younger scouts and aspiring personnel staff members entering the profession.

One of the most impactful parts of Myrick’s journey is his commitment to leadership development. Rather than assuming leadership naturally comes with title or promotion, he actively studies and prepares for it. From reading books by legendary coaches such as Mike Krzyzewski and Phil Jackson to participating in professional leadership programs, Myrick is intentionally preparing himself to lead others at the highest level.

His story serves as a powerful example of why the Fritz Pollard Alliance remains so important. The organization continues to create pathways, mentorship opportunities, and professional development spaces for its members who are preparing to lead across all areas of the NFL.

As Myrick continues building his career, his mindset remains simple: trust the process, stay consistent, and continue serving others along the way.

“I’m realizing people are watching me whether I want to be watched or not,” Myrick said. “So I want my actions to reflect the kind of leader I’m becoming.”

Interview conducted by Aaron Sanders for the Fritz Pollard Alliance Member Spotlight Series.