Interview: The Calm before the Recruiting Storm for 2019 Arkansas DL Kevin Pointer
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
As word on the recruiting trail spreads, the beast on the defensive line for Jonesboro High School will grow in name, reputation, and skill along with it. The fear for the opposition that comes with the stories about the abilities of defensive lineman Kevin Pointer have been well earned after a junior season dominating Arkansas 6A competition, and the recruiting attention deserved is now coming with it.
Signs of things to come in northeast Arkansas began in 2016 when Pointer posted a stat line of 36 tackles, eight tackles for a loss, a half sack, two fumble recoveries, and a scoop and score. One of the big differences on the field from 2016 to ’17 is Pointer’s physical stature. At 6-1, 280 pounds, the recruiting thoughts were of if he continues to grow. Now at 6-2, 300, he is that guy. With more size and increased strength came a bigger stat line during his junior year dominating at defensive tackle and end racking up 67 tackles, 29 solo, 28 tackles for a loss, six sacks, four quarterback hurries, four fumble recoveries, three forced fumbles.
Early Division-I interest was coming in from Arkansas State, SMU, and Memphis, but that too has grown. Add Iowa State, Louisiana-Monroe, Louisiana-Lafayette, and Massachusetts to the mix of curious with an offer from in-state Division-II program Harding.
The Hurricane season ended in the opening round of the Arkansas 6A playoffs after a hard-fought loss to Russellville. In an end of season catch-up interview, Kevin and I covered his junior year on the field with an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Kevin, how did the 2017 season go for you on the field?
“The 2017 season, I think it went really well. It was a breakout season for me. I did better than I thought I would.”
How did you push your game forward during your junior season?
“I pushed it forward by achieving more. I brought a winning attitude to practice and to our games. I used my quickness and speed to defeat the O-line.”
Where all did you play on the field this season?
“On offense, I played some at H-back in practice but we never called the package in a game. In the games on defense, I played defensive end and defensive tackle.”
Which areas were the most improved parts of your game?
“I improved my first step getting quicker off the snap. That helped a lot this year. Sometimes I went untouched in the backfield because of my speed. I worked on my moves this year and my hand movement instead of just bull rushing all the time.”
Which game was your best this season and why do you consider that your best?
“I think my best game was against Russellville, even though we lost. I had the mentality to work hard and dominate their offensive line. I got some sacks and tackles for a loss. I had a good game, we just did not get the win.”
Is there a highlight play that summarizes your junior year?
“Yeah, I had a highlight against Mountain Home. I think it was the highlight of the season by one of the papers in the state. I sacked their quarterback, picked up the fumble, but got caught from behind before I scored.”
What are you going to work on in the offseason to get ready for your senior year?
“I will improve my work ethic and become a better leader. I want to make sure my teammates are following me in a positive way on and off the field.”
What are your offseason workout plans?
“I want to get my legs stronger. My plan is to focus on squats. I want to improve my bench press as well. I want to get a lot stronger both mentally and physically for next season.”
Which schools are showing interest you?
“UMass, Iowa State, Memphis, Arkansas State, ULM (Louisiana-Monroe), and ULL (Louisiana-Lafayette).”
Have you taken any visits this fall?
“I went to Arkansas State, and I’m trying to take visits to Memphis and ULM.”
How did the Arkansas State visit go?
“It went good. I’ve been there on a visit twice now. They won big and they feed us well.”
Did they say what they liked about your game in regards to your recruitment?
“They like my hands and feet, they liked my thighs, and how quick I am off the ball.”
Are you going to play any sports this winter or spring?
“Yes, sir. I am playing basketball and track.”
When do you get basketball going?
“I start with my first practice next week.”
With another year of experience under your belt, are you going to do anything differently in preparation for or during your senior year to improve your game in 2018?
“My work ethic will change. I will do the same things I did this year but do it better.”
Kevin, thanks for your time today and good luck with the basketball season.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credit: Gabriel Tait photography; No. 91 Kevin Pointer