Meet Rodney Kinlaw of Kinlaw Academy

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rodney Kinlaw.

Hi Rodney, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Football has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up watching my uncle, Courtney Brown, become the No. 1 NFL Draft pick from Penn State, and my cousin Joe Hamilton finish as a Heisman runner-up at Georgia Tech. Their journeys inspired me to chase my own path in football.

That path led me to Penn State, where I played under Coach Joe Paterno and became a 1,300-yard rusher and Alamo Bowl MVP. I went on to have a short stint in the NFL, CFL, and overseas before transitioning into a successful career in Talent Acquisition.

Kinlaw Academy was born from everything football taught me — discipline, resilience, fundamentals, and the power of believing in yourself even when things don’t come easy. I want young athletes to understand that football is a vehicle. It can open doors, build confidence, and prepare you for life far beyond the field. My mission is to teach the physical skills, the mental toughness, and the life lessons that helped shape my journey, so the next generation can excel in sports and in life.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has certainly not been smooth. I battled imposter syndrome when launching Kinlaw Academy, questioning whether I was ready to step fully into the role of mentor despite a lifetime in football. Balancing a young family, a full-time career in talent acquisition, and the early stages of the academy added to the challenge. It reminded me of my early football years, moments of waiting, moments of uncertainty, and moments of believing even when the path wasn’t clear. Just as perseverance paid off during my time at Penn State, Kinlaw Academy has grown stronger. I’m committed to using my experiences to guide and inspire the next generation.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Kinlaw Academy?
Kinlaw Academy is a youth football training organization built on the belief that fundamentals, discipline, and character can change the trajectory of a young athlete’s life. We specialize in speed development, running back training, and comprehensive skill work that equips athletes with both the physical tools and the mental approach needed to excel. What sets us apart is the blend of high-level playing experience rooted in my journey through Penn State under Coach Joe Paterno, professional opportunities in the NFL, CFL, and overseas and a genuine passion for teaching the next generation the right way.

Our athletes don’t just learn drills; they learn confidence, resilience, and how to use football as a vehicle rather than letting the sport define them. I take pride in offering an environment where technique, attention to detail, and mentorship come together. Brand-wise, Kinlaw Academy stands for integrity, preparation, and long-term development not shortcuts or quick fixes. My goal is to prepare athletes for the next level, whether that’s middle school, high school, college, or beyond, while giving them the life skills that will serve them long after the game. After the game was done I was lost and didn’t know what to do next. I want to prepare the next generation to have a plan beyond football.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I’ve been blessed with incredible people who have shaped my journey, both on the field and in life. My dad Rodney Kinlaw Sr. uncle, Courtney Brown, and my cousins, Joe Hamilton and Pierson Prioleau, were my earliest football inspirations showing me through their careers what hard work, excellence, and preparation truly look like.

In High School Ray Stackley football and Robert “Smitty” Smith my track coach. At Penn State, Coach Joe Paterno and the entire coaching staff played a major role in developing my mindset, discipline, and understanding of the game.

My parents and my family have always been my foundation, supporting every chapter of my football career and my growth as a man. My wife, Bourgogne, has been my biggest supporter in building Kinlaw Academy, balancing life with the kids, pushing me to believe in my vision, and encouraging me through the moments of doubt. I also credit the young athletes I train; their effort, trust, and commitment motivate me every day to keep growing this academy.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kinlawacademy.com/
• Instagram: Kinlawacademy
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rkinlaw
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodneykinlaw/
• Twitter: kinlawacademy