Interview: 2019 Arkansas RB Samy Johnson Flying Under Radar Despite 3-Star Status
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Smack dab in the middle of the Natural State sits one of the more overlooked running backs in the region, Class of 2019 Catholic High School standout Samy Johnson. Johnson had a breakthrough season during his sophomore campaign with 1,944 yards off 211 totes with 20 touchdowns and followed that up with a 1,293-rush yard season with 13 trips into the end zone. The 5-11, 186-pound, tailback has the rare mix of speed, elusiveness, and power. Despite earning Sophomore of the Year by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and back-to-back All-State honors in Class 7A, many college programs are missing out on Johnson.
In a RNG stylized offseason sit down, I caught up with the talented Rocket to learn more about his offseason workouts, his four offers, and his summer college camp circuit.
Interview
Samy, when you ended your junior season how had your overall game at running back improved?
“My game got better at seeing the holes and I got better at handling adversity so I can have a big game every game.”
If offensive linemen count pancake blocks and knockdowns, are you tracking how many defenders you juked into reaching for air?
(Laughs) “No, sir. I just keep moving.”
How are your offseason workouts coming along?
“Pretty well so far. My coaches have me doing a lot of lifting. I am eating more and turning everything into muscle.”
What are you working on to improve your game for your senior year?
“This year I am working on my footwork, getting to the hole quicker, and when there is not a hole make a lane. I am also working with the defensive backs to get my hip movement better; I will be playing defense this year.”
Which position on defense?
“Corner.”
Are you excited about playing corner?
“Yes, sir. I am. I cannot wait.”
How have spring practices with the Rockets gone?
“They went well. We missed some of the guys, some of the baseball players where in baseball. But, we have a lot of seniors and underclassmen stepping up.”
Will your athleticism be used in different ways during your senior year on offense?
“Not that I know of. We might do more Wildcat action this year but other than that nothing different.”
Have any college programs come by Catholic to meet with you or watch you workout this offseason?
“Yes, sir. Arkansas-Pine Bluff, UCA (Central Arkansas), and Texas State came by our school.”
Have you attended any camps this offseason?
“Yes, sir. I attended an Adidas Rivals Combine in Dallas.”
How did that go?
“It went pretty well. After the first day performance, I got invited to the second day.”
How were you able to showcase your skills at the Adidas camp?
“We did some one-on-ones with the linebackers, I showed my talents then. I also showed how well I can play at receiver with my hands, if they wanted me there.”
Do you have any other upcoming camps scheduled?
“I am going to a Missouri and LSU camp.”
Which schools are showing recruiting interest?
“Arkansas, Princeton, Tulsa, and Vanderbilt are showing interest.”
How many offers do you have now?
“I have four; Idaho, Texas State, UAPB, and UCA.”
Last question. When your time comes to a pick a school to attend and a program to play for, what all will influence your final decision?
“Mostly my family. The school showing the most interest and where I feel at home will be a big influence.”
Samy, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your offseason workouts.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credit: nwamedia.com; No. 1 Samy Johnson in action