Interview: 2019 Louisiana LB Donte’ Starks Blowing Up Recruiting Trail with 13 Offers

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @HogManInLA

One of the recruits to bust out of the gates in the most spectacular of ways in the 2019 class is Donte’ Starks. Starks overwhelmed the competition on the gridiron in Mississippi during the 2016 season and looks to do the same against Louisiana opposition in 2017. All the play on the field is leading to an early recruiting frenzy among college coaches.

College coaches are firmly sold on the notion that no matter what zip code Starks plays in he will be among the best in the nation. During his sophomore season, Starks was a two-way star for St. Martin High School. On offense, the 6-1, 220 pound, talent had 172 yards off 19 carries with two touchdowns. On the other side of the ball Starks put an end to 81 plays with 14 tackles for a loss, four sacks, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and broke up a pass for his Ocean Springs squad.

When the 2017 season kicks off Starks will be suited in a Patriots uniform helping John Ehret High School try to get back to their lofty 12-3 finish in 2016. So far 13 colleges have put an offer on the table for Starks with LSU, Florida State, Arkansas, Louisville, Southern Miss, Troy, Louisiana-Lafayette, Tulane, Tennessee, Jackson State, Iowa State, and Texas-San Antonio in the mix. The thirteenth offer was given on Thursday, January 26, leading to what could be a very big recruiting battle for one of the top linebackers in the country.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with one of the hottest recruits in the 2019 class covering his sophomore season while finding out about the ease of his transfer to his new Marrero, Louisiana roots.

Interview

Donte’, when did you start playing varsity football?

“My freshman year. I did not play in the first three games. My coach did not know if I could play at that level.”

Going into your sophomore season did you have an idea that you would make such a big impact for your team and with college coaches?

“No. I had no idea.”

You had a fantastic 2016 season with St. Martin. Looking back, how did the season go for you?

“It went good, it was great.”

How did your game get better?

“I worked out with my personal trainer, CJ Bailey. I got better at covering, my footwork, and moving sideline to sideline to play the ball.”

How has your transfer from St. Martin in Mississippi to John Ehret High School in Marrero gone so far?

“It has been great. I already knew half of the guys on the team. I moved to Mississippi because my dad was transferred. I am originally from that area in New Orleans.”

Which position will you play for John Ehret on defense in 2017?

“Inside linebacker.”

Will you play running back for John Ehret in 2017 as well?

“Yes, sir.”

What kind of offense will the Patriots run in 2017?

“They run everything – the Wildcat, the spread – everything.”

How will they utilize you in their offense?

“I’m not sure yet.”

Are you playing any spring sports?

“No, sir. Just working out.”

What are your goals this off-season?

“I’m trying to clock in at 4.5 in the 40. In the weight room I’m trying to get 315 on bench. I’m trying to gain 10 more pounds too.”

Are you going to any college or exposure camps coming up?

“I’m going to the Nike Regional Opening in Miami and in Atlanta. I’m going to the Under Armour Camp too. I’m planning on going to some college camps but I’m not sure which ones yet.”

How many offers do you have right now?

“Twelve.”

*No. 13 from Indiana came the day after our interview

Are there any schools showing interest in you but have not offered you yet?

“I’m not sure. Because I am a sophomore schools cannot really get in touch with me. I think Ole Miss is interested but I don’t know for sure yet.”

Did you take any visits during the 2016 season?

“I took a visit to LSU. I was supposed to go to Notre Dame but I could not make it to that one.”

Do you have any visits planned for the spring or summer?

“Florida State.”

Donte’, thanks for your time today and good luck with your upcoming camps.

“Thank you.”

Please help keep RecruitingNewsGuru.com FREE!

If RNG has helped you, a friend, or a family member through an article, video, or stylized interview with our countless hours of free promotion for high school, junior college, and college athletes – please donate. Any amount is appreciated!

Photo credits: hudl.com; No. 6 Donte’ Starks (2016)/

Photo credit: rivals.com; Donte’ Starks.