Interview: 2022 Arkansas OL Mark Welch Ready to Impress at Defensive Tackle
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Mark Welch spent his sophomore season roughing up 5A Arkansas defensive linemen, and will get a chance to return the favor to offensive linemen in 2020. The 6-3, 275-pound, right tackle was a pillar on the line for Camden Fairview to run off of and a cornerstone on passing downs keeping his quarterback’s jersey clean. When the upcoming season kicks off, Welch will have the opportunity to further showcase his strength 4.8 speed, and ability to dominate as a defensive tackle for the Cardinals.
The increased time on the field is sure to boost interest in the 3.2 GPA student-athlete. Regional programs like Arkansas, Southern Arkansas, and Kansas have an eye on the rising star.
In an RNG first-look, Welch steps into the Lab for a detailed conversation covering a whole lotta football.
Interview
Mark, you were a force for Camden Fairview at right tackle last season. How do you feel the season went for you overall?
“It was pretty good. We were put out in the first round by (Little Rock) Christian Academy. As the offensive line goes, we went through some stuff, but once we gelled, it started going better. Last season, it sped up and went better.”
What offensive set were you guys running?
“We did a lot of run game, not that much passing. Our offense passed off the run game. We mixed our formations between powers and spread – we did a lot of spread.”
Looks like you were racking up the pancakes and knockdown blocks. Did you track those?
“No, sir.”
If you had to guess about how many per game?
“About six.”
How did your game improve last season as a run blocker?
“When I first started playing, my first step was hard to get down and get to my man, but I have it down now. It is a whole lot easier to get my hand placement down now.”
What about with your pass-pro?
“That was great. My pass-pro is perfect. We worked on it in practice. We changed our pass set at different times throughout the season. I got very good at it.”
Which areas really took off?
“That first kick step – I get back, the defender comes at me, and I can get him because my hands are quick. That first step is right, I can see where he is going and what he is trying to do.”
Was there a challenge you faced on the field last season? If so, what did you do to overcome that challenge to become a better player?
“Getting to the second level was a challenge. The way our line is set, we double-team a guy and get off that guy and go to the next level. As I got used to it, I was getting to my man. Going against speedy guys at defensive end, I changed my movement. I would kick back and wait. Now, I kick back and keep my feet moving. That got better and easier last season. It was not as challenging.”
The strength you display on the field has to show up in the weight room. What are your maxes?
“On bench my max is 330, on squat it is 500, and my clean is 265.”
Fantastic. Keep at that. Looking to the 2020 season, which positions will you play?
“I have been talking with my coach about this – I will be at right tackle and defensive tackle. I will be playing a lot of defensive tackle this year. Colleges see me as a defensive tackle because of my 4.8 40-yard dash. They can use my speed and power at defensive tackle. I will play a lot both ways this year.”
Are you excited about playing defense this season?
“Yes. I enjoy both sides of the ball. I love football; I started playing in second grade.”
With all that you will be doing this season, what have you been working on with your skills?
“Footwork, my power, my kick slide, working the ladders, strengthening my upper body, and keeping my body in shape. I run a mile every day; I run around the block. When I come back, I do ladders, and work on my footwork with tires and resistance bands.”
This summer, are there any camps you may attend?
“There is one in Batesville (AR), I am thinking about going to that. One of my friends and I may go to an Oklahoma camp.”
Besides football, are you competing in any other sports for Camden Fairview?
“Track. I did play baseball but I stopped. In track, I am the best shotput thrower we have. My best is a 50.52. The glide and shuffle throwing, that helps with football.”
Last question. What have you been doing for fun during the quarantine?
“I fish; been fishing a lot. Fishing and working out really. I also cut grass, that keeps me busy.”
Making side money cutting grass?
“Yes, sir.”
That’s great. Mark, thank you for your time today and good luck with your home workouts this spring.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Mark Welch