Interview: 2021 Arkansas ATH Marco Avant Updates Workouts Ahead of Busy College Camp Circuit
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
When college coaches review tape looking for athleticism and versatility in potential recruits, Class of 2021 Forrest City standout Marco Avant fits the definition. The 6-2, 190-pound, athlete with a 77-inch wingspan lined up at defensive end as well as outside and inside linebacker coming up with 67 tackles, 37 solo, six tackles for a loss, four sacks, two QB hurries, two interceptions, three forced fumbles, and had one pass broken up. His play against 5A Arkansas competition has brought an offer from Texas Southern with schools like Houston, Memphis, and Oklahoma State showing interest. College coaches will get an even deeper look at him during the 2019 season when he adds responsibilities on offense taking on playing receiver and running back.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I caught up with Avant ahead of a very busy college summer camp circuit gaining insight on his talents on the gridiron.
Interview
Marco, you were in a unique position last season with the Mustangs playing all over the field. What type of defense do you guys execute?
“We ran a 3-5 defense.”
Where all did you line up within the schemes?
“I started out the first half of the season at end and then moved to outside linebacker and played some at inside linebacker.”
Of all the positions, which do you like the best or do you feel is the best fit for you?
“It doesn’t matter to me. Wherever the coach needs me, I will play. But I do like playing outside linebacker.”
How did your game improve last season as a defender?
“I had a big responsibility at linebacker. I had to stop the run and I had to learn how to cover on the fly. I learned how to read plays more efficiently so I could make more plays.”
You have a nose for the ball and closing speed on the pigskin, what are some of the other strengths to your game?
“I feel like I read the QB better than others. I can read their body language and I hustle.”
What have you been working on this offseason?
“I have been working on my cover skills, my back pedal, and flipping my hips.”
Are you keeping the same roles in 2019 or are you switching it up?
“You’ll see me on both sides of the ball this year. I am lining up at receiver, running back, linebacker, safety, and maybe some at defensive end.”
Are you excited about your roles on offense?
“Yes sir.”
Have you competed at any camps this offseason?
“Yes, sir. I went to an Opening Regional in Nashville.”
How did that camp go for you?
“It went well. It was a great experience being on the field with other great players. I got to see what college will be like with great players all around.”
Are you going to any other camps this summer?
“Yes, sir. I am going to camps at Memphis, Oklahoma State, Houston, Texas A&M, TCU, Ole Miss, and Arkansas.”
Wow. You have a full slate of camps this summer. Ahead of the camps, which schools are showing recruiting interest?
“I am receiving interest from Memphis, Oklahoma State, and Houston.”
Have you taken any visits this spring?
“Yes, sir. I took a visit to TCU.”
How did that trip go?
“It was good. I toured the campus and met the coaches. It felt like a family environment there. I got to meet Andy Daulton (QB) too.”
Nice. Do you have any planned visits coming up?
“I may be visiting Memphis and Oklahoma State.”
Marco, thanks for your time today and go kick some butt at all these camps.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Marco Avant