Interview: 3-Star 2022 Louisiana ATH Leroy Paige Taking on Larger Role with MLK in 2021
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
After a breakout season in 2019 with John F. Kennedy High School, transfer rules and a virus shortened season robbed us football fans of seeing Leroy Paige in action in 2020. But what we have on tape are the beginnings of something amazing. The 6-4, 200-pound, two-way standout produced nine total touchdowns in 2019 pulling down five for scores on offense and took back four pick-sixes leading to his three-star recruiting status.
When the lights turn on for the 2021 campaign, the Class of 2022 talent will be suiting up with Martin Luther King High School. He will be doing so with 15 offers in his backpack and with top college programs taking interest.
Interview
Leroy, you were that do-everything kind of player for JFK at the skill positions during your sophomore season. How would you describe your play on the field?
I feel like there is no like me. I am very different, because I can play any position on the field from quarterback to receiver, running back, and tight end. Even if they need me blocking on the offensive line, I can do it. Any spot on the defense too. I am very confident in my game. I describe myself as an athlete.
Do you have a favorite position between receiver and defensive back?
I favor DB more, but at receiver I get more recognition. Me having more receptions, it has become dynamic position for me. I feel that I am more of a DB.
Your skills as a big and fast receiving target have shinned against Louisiana defenses. What are the traits to your game that make you so dangerous?
I am 6-4, I can move, and I am very athletic. I am very fast and I run track. I am physical but I don’t like touching the ground. I don’t like being tackled and going to the ground. In my game, I am good with the ball in my hands. It is game over with the ball in my hands.
What have you been working on with your game as a receiver this offseason?
I have been working on my catching and route running. I dropped a couple of passes during my season at Kennedy, I was upset about that. I am looking forward to going the whole season without a drop. This offseason I have been working on my vertical, strength, route running, and one-handed catches.
And what about as a defensive back?
At DB, it is more on the technique. I do a lot of studying at DB. I trained with Derek Stingley (LSU) a couple of times. I am a good tackler and I am developing better technique, footwork. I am also preparing to play safety.
Sticking with that; what roles are you taking on in 2021?
I should be at safety, a lot, some at receiver, running back, some at quarterback, and some at corner. I will start at free safety and receiver.
How have you pushed your speed and agility forward this winter?
I have been working a lot on my speed. Normally I train in Mississippi. My trainer is a famous former NFL Hall of Fame player. He has me on the treadmill and running in water. They have a water-resistant treadmill I run on. I do a lot of running in the sandbox and with a parachute.
Are you playing 7v7 this winter and spring?
Yes. I am currently on the Bootleggers. We have not played in a tournament yet, but I will be in the tournaments coming up.
Are there any camps you may attend this spring?
If they have a Rivals camp coming up, I will go. I went to one last year. Under Armour too.
Let’s get into recruiting. Which schools are showing interest?
LSU, they have been showing the most love but have not offered yet. Alabama, Ole Miss, and Clemson are also showing interest.
How many offers do you have?
I have 15 offers.
Paige’s Offer Sheet: Baylor, Florida State, Houston, Kentucky, Memphis, Mississippi State, South Alabama, Southern Miss, Tulane, and Virginia
Oh wow. I didn’t know you had that many. Which programs were the last couple to offer?
Tulane, Baylor, and Southern Miss. I don’t post all my offers, I have no free time.
Understood. Last question. When visits start back up this summer, are there any schools you’d like to go see?
Most definitely. I want to visit Clemson and USC. I want to take a look at FSU and LSU. I will visit Memphis when I can too.
Leroy, I appreciate your time today. Wishing you success this offseason with your training and 7v7 season.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Paige family; Leroy Paige