Interview: 3-Star 2020 Arizona LB Malik Reed Covers Breakout 2018 Season
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
What we learned during the 2018 Arizona high school football season is only a nagging injury can slow down Class of 2020 linebacker Malik Reed. Despite the small step back, Reed still emerged as a standout linebacker for one of the nation’s top high school football programs, Chandler, helping the Wolves to another championship win and an end of season No. 21 national MaxPreps ranking. With the big season all on tape, the do-everything linebacker is now drawing national recruiting interest.
Even with teams scheming against him, in stats through nine games the 6-2, 220-pound, play-maker put an end to 42 plays with 20.5 tackles for a loss, 8.5 sacks, nine quarterback hurries, forced three fumbles and picked up a fumble earning second team All-State honors. College teams responding with offers due to his skills are Arizona, Indiana, and Wisconsin. The offer sheet will grow with other Pack-12 and Big Ten teams showing interest.
In an RNG exclusive, I spent some time with Reed getting the inside perspective on his junior campaign with an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Malik, you were used in a wide variety of ways within Chandler’s defensive scheme last year. How would you describe your role on the defense?
“I was a person that I would go at it. My coaches knew I was out there to hit someone. I play differently than most. I am always going hard.”
Where all did you line up during the 2018 season?
“I played defensive end, middle linebacker, and outside linebacker.”
Of all the positions played on defense, which is your favorite?
“Outside linebacker is my favorite.”
What was the run through the season to the 6A Arizona state championship like for you personally?
“It felt really good. We got one last year, but I had a big role on the team and with the championship this year. It felt more official to me this year. This one is one that I worked hard to earn.”
Was there a game that was a challenge for you but that adversity helped make you a better player in the long run?
“Maybe the first two games of the season. I was playing hurt, my hamstring. I had to push through it and learned better how to play through adversity.”
Which game during the season was your best?
“I think the championship game against Perry was my best. I had a sack, some tackles for a loss, and a really big hit on their quarterback. I was fired up. From the first play of the game I set the tone on a hit on their running back.”
How did your overall game improve during your junior season?
“I got better off the edge as a pass rusher. I got better with my speed rush and mixing in my power getting to the quarterback. If I had not missed five games, I would have had 15 sacks last season. When I got hurt, I was starting to get it.”
Where all might we see you on the field in 2019?
“I have been talking to my coach about that. I think they are going to play me at middle linebacker. They’ve been watching film on me. After other teams see me set the tone as an outside linebacker, they do not run my way. At Mike, I am always close to the ball and will be able to make more plays.”
What will you work on this offseason to fine-tune and perfect before your senior year?
“I am working on my strength and speed. I have already gotten faster. I am working on my hips, my flexibility is a weak point. I am always working on my technique.”
How many offers do you have now?
“I have three offers from Arizona, Indiana, and Wisconsin.”
Which schools are showing interest but have not offered yet?
“I am receiving interest from Nebraska, USC, Colorado, and Texas – Texas sent me a game invite but I could not make it.”
Did you get to take any visits during the season?
“Yes. I took two to Arizona.”
How did the Arizona visits go?
“They were real cool. I like their staff. They treat everyone like family. I will always like them, they were my first offer. That is big for me.”
Do you have any planned visits upcoming?
“I am 99 percent sure I will visit Nebraska this spring or summer. Wisconsin has been talking about an official in June and I would like to visit USC as well.”
Last couple of questions for fun. Is there a special skill or talent you have that most people would be surprised to find out?
“I am really good at Madden. No one can beat me at Madden. I wax everyone in Madden.”
When you actually have downtime to relax, what do you enjoy doing?
“When I relax, I’m probably working out or I am sleeping. If I am not doing those two things and actually relaxing, I’ll play some video games.”
Malik, it was great learning more about your talents on the field today. I appreciate your time.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Reed family; Malik Reed at Arizona