Interview: 2021 Athlete Pat Bryant is Another Big Florida Talent on the Rise

Posted by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

There are certain areas of the country where the stats that a player accumulates carries a heavier tone. Based on what Class of 2021 Atlantic Coast High School rising star receiver/free safety Pat Bryant did against Florida 7A competition during the 2018 season, his play on the field and stat will carry heavier weight sliding up recruiting boards over the spring evaluation period.

Without attending an Atlantic Coast game this past season, I can still guess without a doubt a familiar question being asked early by the home team and repeatedly throughout the season by the opposing fans, “who is No. 3?” That’s Pat. Bryant was a difference maker in all three phases of the game coming up with 11 stops and two picks at safety in limited action, 144 punt return yards with a long of 80-yards, and balled out on offense with 39 passes hauled in for 635 yards with five scores.

The upside and potential that the 6-3, 180-pound, talent has was spotted even before the season began by Miami with the Hurricanes extending an offer. Another offer is on the table from Valdosta State with interest percolating. All adds up to a very intriguing offseason for Bryant. In an RNG exclusive, I sat down with the Jacksonville area product to learn more.

Interview

Pat, you ended up being a big part of the team’s success on special teams and as a receiver. Going into the year, did you know you would have that big of a role with the Stingrays?

“I kind of knew I needed to be a game changer. I wasn’t sure about special teams, but a couple of guys were injured so they threw me in there and I made plays.”

You were able to showcase your speed and athleticism as a punt returner this year; how did that part of your game improve?

“Returning punts was hard to learn at first, but I got better with it and I could read the field and make plays.”

You led the team in receptions, yards, and receiving touchdowns, what was working for you in 2018 allowing you to be so productive?

“I have to give it to my QB, we have chemistry. We worked hard in the offseason to develop that chemistry. I have to credit our offensive line working hard to give him production. I also have to give credit to my coaches trusting me to make plays.”

What do you consider to be the overall strengths of your game as a receiver?

“My ability to get off the line. How big I am allows me to win jump balls – one of my best strengths.”

If playing receiver and your work on special teams was not enough, you also played some defense. Where all did you line up on that side of the ball and how did your season go as a defender?

“I played free safety. Playing free safety was easy for me after playing receiver. I know the little things that receivers do. It was easier to pick up on things. Big time players make big time plays, I got on defense and did my thing.”

Will you play more defense next season?

“I believe so.”

Which areas of your game will you focus on this offseason?

“On offense, work on my route running, I need to work on that. On defense, I need to learn more about reading the run and pass better.”

You have the two offers, which schools are showing interest in you but have not offered yet?

“Florida State, Wake Forest, FAU (Florida Atlantic), and USF (South Florida).”

Back in June you picked up a really big offer from Miami, what was that moment like for you receiving an offer from a big time in-state Power 5 program?

“It motivated me. Once you get that first one, you want to get more. It pushed me to get better to receive more offers.”

Have you had a chance to visit any schools yet?

“Yes. I have visited FAU, USF, and FSU.”

How did the FSU visit go?

“It was straight. They showed me a lot of love.”

And USF, how did that go?

“It was straight as well. I like the environment and the fan base at USF.”

What about FAU, how did that one go?

“I had never been to that area of Florida before, it was a good experience.”

Do you have any planned visits you may take in the coming months?
“Yes. I plan on visiting Miami, I missed a couple of game invites to go there because of training.”

It is early, but are there any camps and/or combines you may go to upcoming?

“I have been invited to 2019 U.S. Army All-American Combine in Texas in January; I am looking forward to that.”

Are you playing any other sports this winter or spring?

“I am in basketball now.”

How has the season gone so far?

“We are 1-1; it is just beginning.”

Pat, I appreciate your time today. Good luck with your offseason workouts and with the basketball season.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: Bryant family; Pat Bryant at FSU