I really like him, should i wait or go for it?

The guy I like is in my homeroom. He's african-american, tall, little afro, really cute. My problem is, I've liked him for a while and I can't find confidence to ask him out, in my mind I'm not attractive at all. The other thing is he's a football player that's pretty popular, and I'm kind of well known but not popular. Can I please have tips on if I should get to be better friends with him before I ask him out or just go for it?? Thank you in advance!!