If you've tuned in to HBO's latest docuseries, The Cost of Winning [1], you might be wondering where the athletes are now. The four-part series follows the football players [2] of St. Frances Academy, an underfunded private school in Baltimore that won so many games, the team was kicked out of its league. After they're left to fend for themselves, the Panthers create their own schedule, facing teams from all over the country, with the financial help and leadership of Coach Biff Poggi.
Set against a backdrop of racial injustice, poverty, and gun violence, the series highlights the adversity the players face [3] while trying to earn scholarships to college. The vast majority of the seniors did just that. Ahead, find out how several of the key players are doing as college athletes.
Where Is Demon Clowney Now?
During his time at St. Frances, Demon Clowney fielded countless offers from colleges, including Penn State, Michigan, and Georgia [4]. While he initially committed to Louisiana State [5], that offer fell through. Within weeks, Clowney signed with Ole Miss, where, as a defencive end, the freshman hopes to follow in the footsteps of his cousin, former South Carolina star [6] Jadeveon Clowney [7], currently playing for the NFL's Tennessee Titans.
Where Is Chris Braswell Now?
Chris Braswell committed early to Alabama [8], choosing the Crimson Tide over offers from Michigan, Notre Dame, Ohio State, and more [9]. In regard to his decision, Braswell told BamaOnline that he had "a good relationship [10]" with Alabama head coach Nick Saban, and felt like he "fit well into the system and the history of the school." While the freshman linebacker has yet to see playing time at Alabama [11], his future seems bright.
Where Is Blake Corum Now?
Running back Blake Corum has made quite the impression since enrolling at Michigan. While it's notoriously difficult for freshmen to earn a spot on the field, Corum has gotten regular playing time in his first year, even scoring two touchdowns against rival Michigan State [12]. Before committing to the Wolverines, Corum received offers from 29 schools [13]. This likely came as no surprise to his high school coaches, one of whom described Corum as "a very special player, a special kid [14]," who's capable of scoring "anytime he touches the ball."
Where Is Jordan Toles Now?
As a senior at St. Frances, safety Jordan Toles signed with Louisiana State [15] after receiving offers from Michigan, Penn State, Maryland, Iowa, and Ohio State [16]. (Interestingly enough, Toles was also recruited by schools as a basketball player.) As a freshman, he's actively playing for the Tigers, so far making strong showings against teams like Auburn and Vanderbilt [17].