Cutter Rochell signs with Ouachita Baptist University for football
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An Empire High school senior will hit the gridiron on the college campus next fall.
Cutter Rochell, 17, signed his letter of intent to play football at Ouachita Baptist University Feb. 4.
After accepting an academic and athletic scholarship to play football at Ouachita Baptist University, Rochell said he’s still undecided on a major, but is looking into business or history.
Rochell said he looks forward to meeting new people at college, as well as playing football.
“I have some personal goals I have set that I’m excited to reach,” he said.
After earning a college degree, Rochell said he’s planning on coaching football.
While at Empire High School, Rochell’s stacked up numerous achievements, including Class of 2026 Valedictorian, Oklahoma B1 All State, OK 8 Man Football Coaches Association All Star, Empire Team Defensive MVP, 2025 OK B1-2 Defensive MVP, 2025 All County 1st Team Linebacker, invited and played in the Hawaii Tiki Bowl, 2025 Track State Qualifier – Shot Put, 2024 OK B1-2 1st Team Defensive Line and 2024 All County 2nd Team Defensive Line.
Aside from football, Rochell has participated in NHS, STUCO, track, golf, basketball, baseball, C4 Sports Performance and 7v7 team and Duncan First Youth Group.
With inspiration from his parents to play football, Rochell said they wanted him to pursue something that would teach him work ethic and discipline.
“I’ve had some great coaches, mentors and teammates that have pushed me and held me accountable,” he said.
After playing football for the past 12 years, Rochell said he started playing tackle football at 6 years old. He said he also played 7v7 in middle school and high school.
Head Coach Brant Hayes said Rochell’s a great player and “a better young man.”
“He has developed not only as a player, but as a man over the past four years,” Hayes said. “Cutter was our leader on defense this last year.”
Hayes said Rochell has a bright future ahead of him.
“Looking forward to the Lord’s plan for him not only in football but in life,” Hayes said.
Sean Cooper SSC, C.A.P.E.C., TFW LV1, owner and founder of C4 Sports Performance and Fitness, said Rochell works hard at everything he does.
“Cutter is and has been one of the hardest working kids we've ever had and is the model athlete for who and what we want to be known as and for at C4 – hard work, sacrifice, resilience and self growth,” Cooper said.
Copper said Rochell has proven his dedication since he moved to the area.
“When they first moved they reached out with a Houston phone number, told us where they were and were willing to drive two hours to improve,” Cooper said. “I thought it would be short lived but 2.5 years later they're still here working and driving and to see him with the opportunity to play college football at a D2 powerhouse like Ouachita Baptist is amazing and no kid deserves it more.”
Ouachita DL Coach Kane Bryen the university is excited to add Rochell into the defensive line room.
“He brings good length and range to our DE position,” Bryen said. “He has great work ethic and has such a positive personality. Can’t wait to get him on campus and watch him grow. If there is any more information you need please let me know.”
Rochell’s defensive stats are: 109 total tackles, 17 sacks, 75 solo tackles, 14 TFL, 6 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recovery, 3 pass deflection. For offensive: 17 receptions for 235 yards, rushed 2 times for 4 yards and scored 7 touchdowns.
For prospective college students, Rochell said to work harder than their competition.
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