Michigan is compiling a strong start to the Early Signing Period, jumping up to No. 9 nationally with the 2022 recruiting class for the Wolverines.

One member of that group is CJ Stokes, a 3-star running back out of South Carolina. Like a number of recruits, Stokes went ahead and signed his letter of intent on Wednesday, solidifying his college destination.

During a press conference at his school, Stokes went into what drives him to work hard. It was an awesome snapshot of Stokes’ work ethic and mentality as a  young player as he became emotional during his statement:

“Lots of people ask me why you don’t smile more,” said Stokes. “Why do you always look mad? To tell you the truth, I am always mad. I’m always trying to look for a way to do better or be better. That comes with a lot of bad days because I hold myself accountable.

“There’s not really a lot to smile about yet…my goals expand way further than just walking in the doors of college. I will let out a big smile when I have a degree in a career that I put my all into, whatever that may be.”

That’s an awesome mentality to have as Stokes embarks on his college career. It will be interesting to see how he progresses during his time in Ann Arbor.