Interview: 3-Star 2021 Oklahoma CB Keuan Parker Previews Return to Arkansas
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
At this point in his high school career, Keuan Parker (5-11, 173) is a grizzled veteran at cornerback after years of experience going against 6A Oklahoma receivers. The Booker T. Washington standout succeeded playing on an island as a junior, so much so that he earned second team All-State honors after racking up 45 stops, 28 solo, with a sack, 14 passes broken up, and two passes intercepted. The Class of 2021 three-star recruit has impressed beyond the Tulsa area pulling in 10 offers so far with a baker’s dozen showing interest as the camp season heats up.
With a return visit over the weekend to Arkansas, I sat down with Parker for insight on his abilities as a defensive back and the new roles he will be taking on with the Hornets as an athlete during his senior season.
Interview
Keuan, many people out there may not know or understand all the talent that is in the Tulsa area, especially at the skill positions. What is it like for you as a corner going up against 6A Oklahoma receivers every Friday night?
“I like it. In Oklahoma 6A, they throw the ball a lot. I get a lot of opportunities to make a play. With those opportunities, it is up to me to make them. Other teams do not care who you are, they will go at you. I like competing.”
What were some of the different style of offenses you were defending against last season and which routes were you seeing from the receivers?
“We saw a lot of bunches, teams did not respect our run defense. They used their tight ends a lot against us. On routes, we saw slants, comebacks, posts, and double-moves.”
It is fun watching you press a receiver. You get nasty, and in the best way possible.
“Yes, sir.”
How have you developed that part of your game but still be able to keep focus to cover the route if needed after the initial jam?
“Pressing, I am always playing with feet first and keep my eyes right; the jam is extra. The jam is not needed but good to use. I am a feet-first and use my technique corner, the jam just helps out.”
Which other coverages were you guys running?
“We ran Cover 2, Cover 4, and a bit of Cover 5.”
How did your game as a cover corner improve during your junior year?
“I got opportunities to make more plays. I made plays as a sophomore but we had other top guys making plays as well. I had more opportunities this year. I played more physical this year than last, a lot more. I grew more confident the more I played.”
Beyond improving physically with your speed and strength, what are some of the technical aspects to your game you want to fine-tune before your senior season?
“This offseason I am working on staying in front of the receiver as long as possible, even if it is five yards, to mess up the timing of the route. It is all about timing for them. Me not opening up as quick, that will help me out and throw off their timing.”
Are you taking on any new positions in 2020?
“Yes, sir. You will see me at slot receiver, outside receiver, some at safety and some at corner, and kick and punt return.”
A very busy season ahead for you.
“Yes, sir.”
Your speed shows against both tall outside receivers and against the speedy slot targets. What is your fastest timed run?
“Last summer I ran a 4.4 twice. In track, my best 100 time is a 10.7. I did that yesterday in time trails. That was hand-timed.”
Wow. That is great. Are you taking the skills to any camps?
“I am going to an Under Armour camp on the 14th and a Rivals camp on 15th. Both are being held in Dallas this month.”
Given the overall talents, how many offers do you have now?
“10.”
Parker’s Offer Sheet: Abilene Christian, Arkansas, Arkansas State, Baylor, Iowa State, Kansas, Nebraska, Oregon, Temple, and Tulsa
Which schools are looking in on you showing interest?
“SMU, UNLV, Kansas State, TCU, North Texas, Oregon State, Memphis, Texas Tech, Arizona, and Texas State.”
Have you visited any schools over the last few months?
“I’ve been to Kansas twice during the season, Baylor for a game, and to Arkansas.”
Tell me how the Kansas visit went.
“They were great. I like the atmosphere and coaches at Kansas. I like the vibe in Lawrence. Lawrence is a college town, and they love their athletes. Coach (Les) Miles (head coach) is changing their culture. They have something good going on at Kansas. I like it a lot.”
And Baylor, how did the visit to Waco go?
“We went there for the Oklahoma game. They had a great atmosphere; it was a night game. Coach (Joey) McGuire (OLB) is a really cool guy. Seems like a great place to play football. Their fans never let them down. They pack the stadium out. They are changing their culture as well.”
What about the Arkansas visit, how did that go?
“It was cool. I was there for the Auburn game. I went there with the old coaching staff; Mark Smith and Chad Morris – I talked to them. I had a nice time. I liked Arkansas a lot.”
Do you have any planned visits coming up?
“Arkansas this Saturday.”
What has you excited about this visit to Fayetteville?
“I’m excited to get up there to meet their new cornerbacks’ coach, Coach (Sam) Carter. I have been talking to him every day for about three weeks. He is a real cool dude. I’m excited to meet the rest of the staff. Miles Slusher (2020) is one of my friends; he is up there. I will have a good time there. I’m excited to see what the new staff is about at Arkansas.”
Keuan, thanks for your time today and good luck with your upcoming visit to Arkansas.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: KB Photography/Twitter; No. 10 Keuan Parker