Interview: 3-Star 2020 California OLB/SS Kourt Williams Talks UCLA Unofficial Visit Interview

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

The evolution of college defenses is in full-swing and one of the ambassadors of the change is Class of 2020 outside linebacker/safety Kourt Williams. The 6-1, 215-pound, defender was instrumental during his junior season with St. John Bosco (Bellflower) helping the Braves to a 13-1 record that culminated with an end of season No. 2 national ranking (MaxPreps). Through all 14 games, Williams stockpiled 74 stops, four tackles for a loss, two sacks, and knocked away two passes. His offer sheet has expanded to 14 along the way with a three-star recruiting ranking.

After a big showing at the Los Angeles Nike Opening Regional and with his first unofficial visit under his belt on Monday, I sat down with one of California’s top versatile defenders for an update on his workouts and visit to Westwood.

*Click link for Nov. 18, 2018, RNG interview with Kourt Williams

Interview

Kourt, how are your offseason workouts coming along?

“They are coming along well. We are in the weight room and on the field every day getting our bodies right for the season. We are also doing some combine stuff for the upcoming camps. Everything is going really good right now.”

When you left the 2018 season, what did you feel were the strengths to your game?

“The strengths to my game were reading the offensive plays, my instincts got better, and my coverage got a lot better.”

What all have you been working on this spring and where are you seeing the improvements in your skillset already?

“This spring, as mentioned, I have been doing some combine work with my trainer and I have been in the weight room working on getting stronger and faster. That work showed at the Nike Opening Regional (LA). With my game, my instincts and play recognition are showing improvements.”

What did they clock you at in the 40-yard dash at the Opening Regional?

“They clocked me on my first run at 4.52 and then a 4.6-flat.”

That is impressive given the conditions of the camp with the rain, wind, and cold weather.

“Thank you.”

At the Nike Regional, how did your personal performance in the drills and one-on-ones go?

“It went well. Like you said, the weather was not great, that made it tough. The combine part went well and the skills portion and one-on-ones went well. It was a great experience overall.”

Are you going to any other national camps this spring?

“Yes. I am going to the Under Armour All-American Camp on March 3.”

With recruiting, which schools are showing interest?

“Wisconsin, Notre Dame, Washington, Ohio State, Clemson, and Wyoming are all showing interest.”

Which schools were the last couple to offer you?

“My last two offers came from Texas A&M and UCLA.”

Impressive. Speaking of UCLA, you visited them today. How did that go?

“UCLA was my first unofficial visit. It was a really good visit. I was able to take a tour of the campus and the facilities and talk to the coaches. I watched film with their linebackers coach. He showed me how I would fit into their defensive scheme if I played there.”

Because you are a versatile guy, how do they see you fitting into their scheme?

“They said I would be in a hybrid role. I would be at strong safety on first and second down plays and then come down as a money backer on third down plays.”

What is your lasting impression of UCLA from the visit?

“It was cool going on my first unofficial to my dad’s alma matter, that was special to me personally. They impressed me. I see myself fitting into their system and making an impact on the team. It was fun listening to my dad and Coach (Don) Pellum talking about playing against each other in college. Coach Pellum played at Oregon.”

Do you have any other visits upcoming you may take?

“I am planning on going to USC soon and I am taking some out of state visits upcoming.”

Kourt, I appreciate your time today and wish you success at the upcoming camps and with your USC visit.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Williams family; Kourt Williams at UCLA (Feb. 18, 2019)