Miami DB DJ Ivey Strives To Be A Role Model In The Community

Deep through the tissue of DJ Ivey's 8% body fat is a whole lot of 305 blood.

Ivey, a fifth-year senior was born and raised in Miami, FL, and his entire football playing career has modeled around the city he loves. From little league football at Florida City Park, to big-time games at South Dade High School, and his lengthy-playing career at UM, he wants to leave a mark on his hometown.

Ivey has gone through the wringer during his time at Miami. He's experienced three head coaches, the rigor of offseason programs, followed by rough patches in games. Nevertheless, he's a college graduate now seeking his master's degree. The cornerback is a veteran in the Hurricanes' defensive backs room and a leader in his community.

Ivey is hosting a back-to-school giveaway on August 14 at Florida City Park.

"It means a lot to me," Ivey said. "Giving back to the little ones at the park where I played football for about seven or eight years since I was in little league. [I enjoy] giving back to the community and actually giving the little kids something to look forward to."

Ivey is working alongside his NIL agency First Round Management to hand out backpacks and school supplies to children in his community.

"There weren't many times when I had the opportunity to go to a bookbag drive or book bag giveaways," Ivey said. "I just want to set the standard and be that person that the little kids can look up to."

Ivey worked with campers at FRM's inaugural youth football camp in July, and was giving out pointers to young defensive backs at Gilbert Frierson's co-camp in 2021.

Ivey has been working with the first team during the first few fall practices. Following an impressive spring, the 6-foot-1, 195-pounder is keeping his head down and focusing on improving all-around.

"We all got to put in the work," Ivey said. "Nothing is ever given, you just got to keep working hard."

Ivey only started in four games last season after starting in all 11 in 2020, but he's focused on the present and only that.

"I'm not really too worried about last year," he said. We're going to keep that in the past and just move forward. I'm just ready to see what we got to do this year."

Ed Reed made an appearance during Wednesday's practice, and was seen giving out pointers to the defensive backs. Defensive analyst Demarcus Van Dyke was overheard saluting Ivey after impressing him in a drill.

"It's always great to see a Hall of Famer, a person that wears a gold jacket, to come around and actually give you pointers on what you need to get better at," Ivey said.