Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
-Proverbs 3:5-6
A St. Louis native and star quarterback for the Western Michigan Broncos, Kaleb Eleby has long had a football in his hands. Since he was young, his talent was showcased throughout his time in youth sports. After playing for Pattonville High School, he would go on to Western Michigan where he has quickly become one of the most talked about quarterbacks in the game. After leading Western Michigan to an upset of Pittsburgh earlier in the year and furthering attention to his name, he says it is his faith that keeps him grounded.
Born in Maryland Heights, Missouri, Eleby grew up with faith as an important part of his life. He says that has continued to today, as faith guides him on a daily basis with decisions he makes both on and off the field.
At Pattonville, Eleby garnered accolades that included being a four year starter and 3 year captain, alongside throwing for over 9,500 passing yards and 95 touchdowns. As he finished up his high school career, he was ranked as ESPN’s No. 9 player in Missouri and the No. 19 dual-threat quarterback nationally. Eleby would go on to choose Western Michigan over offers from Iowa State, Illinois, Toledo, and more. After choosing Western Michigan, Eleby has taken advantage of every chance he has gotten for the Broncos.
After playing in 5 games his freshman year in 2018, Eleby returned in 2019 as second on the depth chart. However, during that season he never took a single snap. As he used the opportunity to redshirt, he says he has learned that whether you play in every game or spend an entire season from the sidelines, every step is an opportunity to grow.
“My faith is what keeps me level headed & grateful. The ups and downs are all a part of the journey to become who you were meant to be.”
“My faith in the Lord allows me to understand that I am not in control of my football career, but that God is. Being able to line up & play is a blessing within itself, one that I do not take for granted.”
Every time he takes the field Eleby reiterates that it is a blessing, and he is just using his gifts as an opportunity to glorify God and play the game that he loves. As analysts and scouts continue to rave about Eleby’s arm, his leadership skills are what set him apart. His team not only relies on him to get them the ball, but also to keep them focused and intent on taking advantage of every game come Saturday. He has become one of the most well rounded athletes in the sport and looks forward to continuing his development with the Broncos.
As Western Michigan has gotten off to a strong start to the 2021 season under Eleby’s helm, Eleby has seen his stock rise as many fans who have been exposed to him and the way he plays the game. With kids looking up to his arm and the way that he carries himself on and off the field, Eleby has become a leader for the Broncos and is focused on developing relationships that last beyond the field on his way towards continued success.
