LaFell attended Lamar High School in Houston, where he played football, basketball, and ran track. He was coached by Tom Nolen. In football, LaFell caught 46 passes for 1,116 yards and 16 touchdowns as a senior. Also starring on special teams, he returned punts of 65 and 58 yards for touchdowns. LaFell was a member of the Houston Chronicle Top 100 and named first-team All-Greater Houston Area in 2004. In basketball, LaFell was a standout point guard. In track & field, LaFell competed in the high jump event.
