High School Star Quentin Burrell Shines at Mount Carmel

Quentin Burrell, a senior receiver, joined Mount Carmel for several reasons. The allure of the football program and its glory were major draws. As a Michigan recruit, Burrell makes the daily trip from Evanston, understanding that while Ann Arbor holds his future, he should cherish his final year as a high school athlete.

“I’m going to be in college soon, but right now, I have to play where my feet are and do my best,” Burrell expressed with a smile. “My life revolves around this building. I’m very glad that all the hard work is paying off.”

Friday night showcased that hard work, as Burrell contributed four catches for 67 yards and a touchdown in a 49-14 victory over Providence in a Catholic League crossover match in Chicago. The host Caravan benefited from Burrell’s performance, driven by senior quarterback Brady Cloherty, who completed 25 of 33 passes for 373 yards and seven touchdowns, leading Mount Carmel to a 5-2 record.

For Providence, junior tight end Jonathan Osborne scored on a 93-yard pass from junior quarterback Dominic Vita. Osborne ended the game with three catches totaling 155 yards, and Vita threw for 218 yards.

Burrell scored an 11-yard touchdown pass at the end of the second quarter, helping the Caravan reach halftime with a 28-14 lead. Junior receiver Marshaun Thornton praised Burrell’s demeanor:

“He’s just a humble guy who’s always dependable. He doesn’t care who’s scoring. He’s always doing something positive.”

Notably, Burrell is not the only Michigan recruit from Mount Carmel. Senior defensive back Tavares Harrington will join him. Both have played together since they were 13 with the Naperville Patriots.

“You wouldn’t expect Q to be Q,” Harrington noted. “On the field, he excels, and he’s just as personable in school. Everyone likes him.”

Burrell’s selflessness on the field ensured opportunities for his teammates. Junior tight end Ty Kennedy scored three touchdown catches thanks to Burrell’s efforts. Thornton also caught a touchdown pass.

Burrell values family highly. His older sister, Kali, was a two-time academic all-conference forward in the Big Ten for Michigan women’s soccer, serving as his role model.

“My family has guided me,” Burrell explained. “I looked up to my sister and wanted to achieve just as much.”

Quentin decided to join the Wolverines over offers from Notre Dame, Alabama, Auburn, and Boston College. He nearly left football for basketball in the eighth grade but stayed with encouragement from his father. Now, as a three-year starter, Burrell boasts two state championship rings. His first two seasons set program records with 142 catches, 2,396 yards, and 34 touchdowns, marked by his size and game understanding.

In Friday’s game, Burrell only played in the first half, allowing senior receiver Danny Leyden to score in the third quarter.

“There’s nothing more I could ask for than being with my guys,” Burrell said. “I know our time together is short, so I’m embracing everything.”