East Michigan News

YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) -- Delbert Mimms III's journey to Eastern Michigan University is marked by perseverance, ambition, and a deep love for football that began almost as soon as he could walk. Now, as he prepares for his senior season, the former NC State running back is ready to make his mark in Ypsilanti, bringing with him a relentless work ethic and a passion for the game instilled in him by his father.

Growing up in Indianapolis, Ind., Mimms had football in his blood. His father, a former All-American at Indiana State University, surrounded young Delbert with the sport from the moment he was born. "When I was like three or four, there were little footballs everywhere," Mimms recalls with a smile. "I just wanted to follow in his footsteps and really just wanted to be better than him."

For a kid growing up in Indiana, where basketball often reigns supreme, Mimms's decision to pursue football might have seemed unusual. But at Ben Davis High School, a football powerhouse in Indianapolis, Mimms thrived. His talent on the field earned him a spot at NC State, where he spent the last three seasons primarily as a short-yardage and goal-line back. However, Mimms wanted more. He wanted to be a three-down back, someone who could contribute in all phases of the game. That's what led him to Eastern Michigan.

"My play has to be at the highest level it's ever been," Mimms says, reflecting on his mindset going into the 2023 season. "At NC State, I was only there to be a short-yardage, goal-line back, but here I want to be that first down, second down, and third down back. I want to be that guy who can break one loose for 60 yards if needed."

Mimms's transition to Eastern Michigan wasn't just about football; it was also about adjusting to life in a new place. Having spent the last few years in North Carolina, the Indiana native had to reacquaint himself with Midwest winters. "I got here in January, and it was all snow on the ground," Mimms recalls while laughing about the stark contrast to the mild winters down south. But the cold weather wasn't the only adjustment. Learning a new offense and integrating himself into a team filled with new faces was equally challenging.

One of the key factors that attracted Mimms to Eastern Michigan was the consistency and persistence of the coaching staff, particularly Head Coach Chris Creighton and Running Backs Coach Issac Reed. "Once they knew I was interested, they were on me every day," Mimms says. "They called and texted me every day, and after my second visit when I committed they wanted to move me in as soon as possible. You could tell they really wanted me here."

The feeling of being wanted and the strong sense of camaraderie Mimms has found at Eastern Michigan have made his transition seamless. "This is probably the closest team I've ever been a part of," he says. "Even after a short time here I see some of these guys being at my wedding—that's crazy to say but it's true."

Mimms knows that success on the field isn't just about his individual performance—it's about the team especially the offensive line in front of him. Developing a strong bond with the linemen has been a priority for him. "I hang out with those guys all the time," he says. "We joke around in practice out of practice during camp—just being able to get close with those guys and hear their stories makes us closer—and that camaraderie is going to be key for us this season."

In addition to building relationships with his teammates Mimms has been putting in work developing chemistry with quarterbacks Cole Snyder (Lakewood N.Y./Southwestern/Rutgers/Buffalo), Jeremiah Salem (Germantown Tenn./Houston), and Drew Viotto (Sault Ste Marie Ontario/Walled Lake Western/Minnesota). "Whenever these guys put in group chat they're going throw—I show up," Mimms says." It's about being there getting those nicks crannies learning what they see out there understanding what they need from me as route runner pass protection."

As veteran player coming from ACC Mimms is particularly excited playing Mid-American Conference especially nationally televised "MACtion" games." It's kind like Monday Night Football" he says." I'm excited knowing entire country watching."

When not on field enjoys variety outdoor activities." Like go bowling roller skating love going range" says." Some old linemen invited go hunting might try too also like fishing haven't found good spot here Michigan yet."

One highlights time Michigan exploring local food scene already found few favorite spots." Food great" says." Like cook home too sometimes go places think 'I'm make one day.'"

As season approaches focused team's theme year: BET stands Believe Excellence Together." BET means we have believe team believe we're make everything happen believe coaches" explains." We have excellent everything do—we're not perfect but chase perfection have stay together team especially things get hard that's what's make us strong end."