Interview: 3-Star 2021 Mississippi ATH Jarquez Hunter is a True Do-Everything Skill Talent

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

A simple snapshot of one season should leave you impressed with Class of 2021 athlete Jarquez Hunter and all the amazing things he did on the field for Neshoba Central High School. On offense, the 5-10, 187-pound, standout rushed 213 times for 2,088 yards with 29 scores and showed his all-purpose nature with 14 receptions covering 234 yards lighting up the board two more times with touchdowns. On defense, he put an end to 72 plays, 55 by himself, and registered 10 tackles for a loss, seven sacks, five QB hurries, four picks, broke up six passes, and picked up a loose ball. If that was not enough, the undervalued three-star recruit also changed the game on special teams further showcasing his speed with 10 kicks taken back 425 yards and 16 punts going the other way for 365 more all-purpose yards.

Hunter’s gridiron actions led to an 10-4 season for his Rockets squad and earned him All-District MVP honors at running back. To further impress, he has six offers in front of him with more schools showing interest.

In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with one of Mississippi’s top all-around athletes going in-depth in all that he does on the gridiron.

Interview

Jarquez, you put up amazing numbers in 2019 with over 2,000 rushing yards and 29 scores. What was working so well for you allowing for the big year?

“I like to come downhill in the I-formation. I am strong and I am fast, and we ran a lot of power plays this season.”

Going with your speed, how fast are you?

“My best 40 time was a 4.44-flat. I also ran a 4.51 at Mississippi State this summer.”

What base offense are you working out of with the Rockets?

“We run a wing. We have two wing backs and a fullback and we run the I-formation.”

When the ball is being handed off to you, what type of runs are called?

“Power runs, jet sweeps, and counter plays.”

How did your overall game improve as a running back this season?

“I got better at my footwork – I got stronger throughout the season.”

If that was not impressive enough, you also tore it up on defense. Where all did you line up in the Rockets defense and what were your responsibilities?

“I was at outside linebacker mostly. I had to seal the edge, do some blitzes, and cover the slot.”

How did the skills on that side of the ball improve for you?

“It improved a lot. I watched film every day. I worked every day in practice going over the other team’s plays – all that made me better.”

You further showcased your amazing speed and athleticism on special teams as a true return specialist. What is your mindset on a punt and/or kick return when the ball is in the air?

“Don’t let it hit the ground. I don’t care if someone touches me, I will still run it.”

Given all that you do, how did you prepare for any given game?

“Every day after practice, I would run to keep my stamina up and I drink a lot of water to avoid cramps on Friday night. I do a lot of film study with the team and at home by myself.”

Putting all of that together, which game this season was your best personal peformance?

“My best game on offense was against Canton. I had 331 rushing yards with five touchdowns on 14 carries. My best defensive was against Grenada (playoffs). I had two picks, one of them a pick-six, and eight or nine tackles in that game. I caught the pick-six to win the game.”

Both fantastic games. Congratulations.

“Thank you.”

Of all the positions played, which is your favorite?

“Running back.”

No doubt you are an elite talent with a next level future. How many offers are you holding?

“I have six offers.”

Hunter’s Offer Sheet: Jackson State, Memphis, Ole Miss, South Alabama, Southern Miss, and Tennessee

Which schools are showing interest but have not offered yet?

“LSU, Kentucky, Mississippi State, West Virginia, and Auburn.”

Nice. Did you get a chance to visit any schools this fall?

“Yes. I took visits to Mississippi State and Ole Miss.”

How did the State visit go?

“It went well. I talked to the coaches during the visit. They talked to me for a while. They showed interest in me during the visit.”

And the Ole Miss visit?

“They show a lot of interest in me every time I go there. They treat me like family.”

The offseason is here, what is the focus of your workouts over the winter?

“I will work on my footwork, run a lot to get my stamina better and to improve my speed, and to get bigger in the weight room.”

Jarquez, I appreciate your time today and wish you further success this winter with your workouts.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Hunter family; Jarquez Hunter at Ole Miss