2022 RB Daryl Searcy Talks Football and Upcoming Arkansas and Missouri Visits

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

In back-to-back seasons, Class of 2022 running back Daryl Searcy Jr. (6-0, 183) has produced big seasons. As a freshman, he compiled over 2,000 all-purpose yards with Forest City High School eclipsing the 1,000-yard mark on both rushing and receiving. After a transfer to Little Rock’s Robinson High School, he helped the Senators to a 14-1 record capturing a 4A Arkansas state title during the run. An offer has been extended from Arkansas State with SEC and Big 12 interest building.

Ahead of a two-visit weekend to Arkansas and Missouri, I got a catch-up interview in with one of the Natural State’s top 2022 talents.

Interview

Daryl, I’m sure you’ve heard this a lot, but congratulations on winning a state title last season.

“Thank you.”

When the clock was winding down on the 56-28 win over Shiloh Christian knowing you were 4A state champs, what was that moment like for you?

“It was great. That was my first championship game, my first time winning a championship. It was great, and a lot of fun.”

The 2019 season was another big one for you forming a one-two punch out of the backfield with Hunter Smith. How did the two of you go about attacking opposing defenses this past season?

“Hunter would start off, unless he was hurt. They used me to run outside and inside plays. We had a great connection coming out of the backfield. It did not matter who started or not, it just matter we won the game.”

You touched on this, what were some of the plays called for you getting the ball into your hands?

“My favorite play was Black; I love that play. That is an outside run. Pink right, another favorite, and Purple – an inside run play following the guard; I love following the guard.”

You had some big highlight plays like the 90-plus yard touchdown run that showcased your breakaway speed. What is the best timed-run you’ve posted?

“A 4.48 with my dad training in the offseason.”

Nice. How did you take your game to another level in 2019?

“I stayed humble, worked harder, and followed what my coaches told me. I’ve always been told to finish strong, after contact I keep moving my feet until I fall down. You have to be patient following guards, if you want to get a lot of yards.”

Will your role on the team change at all in 2020?

“Next year I may play some receiver and more on kick return – I have the speed to do both.”

What are you working on this offseason?

“I am lifting weights now. This spring, I will be working on making my legs stronger and improving my speed and agility. I am running track this spring.”

Going into recruiting. Which schools are showing interest but have not offered yet?

“Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri.”

Have you received that first offer yet?

“Yes, sir. I have an offer from A-State (Arkansas State).”

Congratulations.

“Thank you.”

Over the last few months, have you taken any unofficial visits?

“I have been to Arkansas and Oklahoma, both for games.”

How did the Arkansas trip go?

“It was great. I saw their facilities and their field. I got to go into the locker room, I talked to my cousin Koilan Jackson (Razorbacks’ WR).”

And the Oklahoma visit, how did that go?

“It was great. Super great. Oklahoma has a really big campus. The game was awesome. I saw my uncle Keith Jackson (HOF TE) there. That was my first time to Oklahoma.”

Are there any planned visits ahead?

“This weekend I am going to Fayetteville and to Missouri.”

What’s going on up at Arkansas this weekend?

“They are having a Junior Day; I think we are seeing a basketball game.”

With the Missouri visit, what has you excited about visiting the Tigers?

“Seeing the campus and meeting the coaches.”

Daryl, it was great spending time with you today catching up. Wishing you success on both your weekend visits.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Searcy family; Daryl Searcy Jr. post-game