Channelview September 2025

Football

\\ By Matthew Ogle KELLER’S INSTINCTS DEFINE HIS EMERGENCE AT CHANNELVIEW B A L L ON THE

viewed through the lens of football. And while he supports the Baltimore Ravens on Sundays, it’s Channelview that shaped his path. “They’re big on character here,” Keller said. “The coaches make sure you have a good head on your shoulders and stay focused on what’s important. That’s helped me to focus on what I hope to achieve moving forward.” With his high school career nearing its close, Keller’s impact is already evident. He reflects what Channelview football aims to represent: discipline, quiet leadership, and the kind of respect that’s earned—not assumed.

And Keller does. Inspired by pros like Maxx Crosby and Nick Bosa, he brings a blend of tenacity and precision to every snap. While his playstyle is built on physical dominance, it’s his growing tactical awareness that sets him apart. “I try to be as physical as I can,” he said. “But I’ve gotten to the point where I have an idea of where I need to be, and what moves I’m going to use to get me there.” Off the field, Keller defies expectations just as much. A passionate anime fan, he lists Demon Slayer, One Piece, and Attack on Titan among his favorite series— adding a thoughtful layer to a persona often only

said. “You can’t just be thoughtless when you’re playing. There’s a lot more technique and strategy that goes into being on the D-Line than people might think.” That shift in mindset has helped mold Keller into one of the most dependable defensive players on the roster. In District 23-6A— home to powerhouse programs like North Shore, Atascocita, and Summer Creek—dependability isn’t just appreciated; it’s required. “This district is as tough as it gets, so nothing is going to be handed to us,” Keller said. “If we want to re-enter the conversation, we’re going to have to work for it.”

IN A DISTRICT WHERE PHYSICALITY IS A PREREQUISITE AND FLASH CAN SOMETIMES OVERSHADOW FOUNDATION, CHANNELVIEW HAS QUIETLY BUILT AROUND ONE OF ITS MOST STEADY, UNSHAKABLE FORCES ON THE DEFENSIVE SIDE OF THE BALL. Senior defensive end Le Derric Keller has emerged as a central figure for the Falcons—a player who brings both grit and intention to the trenches. Known for his edge-rushing ability and impact against the run, Keller doesn’t just disrupt plays—he studies, anticipates, and finishes them. “Getting my mind right on the field has been a big area that I’ve experienced some growth in,” Keller

12 \\ CHANNELVIEW ISD \\ SEPT 2025 \\ cvisd.org