Interview: 2020 Arkansas RB/LB Ahmad Adams is a Power 5 Prospect Flying Under the Radar

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

When it comes to the play of Ahmad Adams, the start of something big began during the 2018 season and where it may go, only time will tell. The emerging Class of 2020 Bryant High School star athlete shot out of the gate as a two-way performer for the Hornets helping his squad capture a 7A Arkansas state title. Adams used his 6-1, 220-pound, frame at middle linebacker earning All-Conference honors. The overall stats on his season are incomplete, especially on defense, but he showcased his growing talents overall while flashing breakaway speed on offense looking like a top national recruit.

In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with one of the top unknown talents in Arkansas, and perhaps in the south, covering his breakout season and offseason workout goals.

Interview

Ahmad, what was the championship run like for you personally, especially as a two-way player?

“It was different for me. There were a lot of things I had to do at that at that level, to play at a high level.”

How did the championship game against North Little Rock go for you in the rematch from the regular season?

“I knew that I wanted to do more than the first time we played them. I tried to play a perfect game.”

Was there a moment during the season when everything started to flow for you? When your athletic talents, instincts, and experience just took over on offense?

“Yes, sir. That happened when we played Catholic High (Little Rock). I was playing on both sides of the ball in that game. I started out at linebacker and later in the game the coaches put me in at running back.”

What was the back-and-forth like for you in any given game between linebacker and running back?

“The majority of my action was at linebacker, and then they would put me in at running back for some plays.”

Which position do you like best?

“I like playing running back the best, but playing middle linebacker gives you more freedom to move around and make plays.”

Which game last season was the toughest for you?

“The toughest one was probably the Conway game.”

How did that tough game against Conway make you better for the challenge?

“The way they tackled, they were going for the legs instead of going up high. I had to adjust the way I ran the ball to gain more yards.”

Which game was your best in 2018?

“The Fayetteville game, the first time we played them.”

Why do you consider that to be your best game?

“I started the game playing running back and later played more at middle linebacker. I picked up a fumble that could have put us in the lead. I had a goal line tackle to stop them from scoring. I had a good overall game.”

I think you have next level – breakaway speed. Going into the offseason, what do you feel are the strengths to your overall game as a running back?

“I feel like my size and speed are strengths. Teams look at me as being slow, that gives me an advantage because they are underestimating me.”

What about on defense, what are the traits to your game that standout on that side of the ball?

“I can tell where they are going based on what they linemen are doing and what I would do as a running back. I read linemen well, I can tell where the ball is going.”

Which areas of your skillset are you working on this spring?

“I am working on my conditioning and working out with my linemen. I am working with the new guys on the offensive line to develop the chemistry needed for the season.”

Are you playing 7v7 ball this spring?

“Yes, sir. I am playing with Bryant, my high school team.”

Going into recruiting, which schools are showing interest?

“I am receiving interest from Ole Miss, OBU (Ouachita Baptist), and Memphis.”

Have you had a chance to visit any schools yet?

“Yes, sir. I went to TCU last summer.”

Do you have any planned visits coming up?

“Yes, sir. I am planning on going to OBU, TCU, and Ole Miss.”

Are you competing in any other varsity sports for Bryant?

“Yes, sir. I compete in wrestling.”

How is the wrestling season going?

“Good. I am the conference champion and I have state this weekend.”

Ahmad, it was great talking to you today learning about your game on the field. Thanks for your time and good luck this weekend at state.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Adams family; Ahmad Adams in action (2018)