Interview: 3-Star 2022 Louisiana WR O’Ryan James Set for Breakout Year
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The foundation has been set, and everything else is being built upon for standout Ellender receiver O’Ryan James. James (6-0, 178) started coming into his own as a playmaker during the 2019 season taking Louisiana 4A defenses to the woodshed covering 433 yards on the ground off 22 receptions with four scores and took 12 handoffs 182 more yards with three more trips into the end zone. The breakaway speed was also used as a kick return specialist covering 243 yards on 14 attempts. Heading into his junior season, the three-star recruit has offers on the table from Mississippi State and Virginia with other Division I programs catching onto his talents.
In an RNG first-look, James catches us up on the Patriots preseason practices and preparations with a quick update on his personal recruiting options.
Interview
O’Ryan, I am glad I never have to line up against you in a footrace. You flashed the wheels last season with the Patriots scorching Louisiana defenses. How fast are you?
(Laughs) My fastest time is a 4.5.
Do you also run track?
Yes, sir. I compete in the 4×1, 4×2, and 200 meters.
Nice. The coaches were lining you up all over and getting the rock to you in various ways. If you will, where all were you lining up and how did the coaches get the ball in your hands last season?
I was mainly lining up on the single side for one-on-one matchups with trips on the other side to give me room. That is mainly how I got the ball. My coaches knew my speed would beat them, especially in man to man. If we got that matchup, my quarterback would look for me.
You were running just about every route possible, even burning guys with double moves. Which routes were you executing last season?
I was mainly running hitches, slants, hitch and goes, turn around and shoot back out, posts over the top, and fades in the corner.
That double-move you have on your reel is sick.
That was improvised. My coach saw how the corner bit on my route the play before, then we drew it up on the sideline, and we called the play. We added that play to the playbook on the Monday after that.
Adds another impressive level to all of it. From lining up on the outside and on the inside, once the 2019 season ended what did you feel were the strengths to your game?
I feel as if, being a sophomore, I think I stepped up big for my team. I didn’t think I would play as much as I did. Last year, I was a leader for my team. We had leaders, and I was one of the younger ones. My success would get our team excited and help build momentum.
Looking at your game from a technical standpoint, which areas of your game were the top parts of your skillset?
I’d say my route running. My coach showed me how to run my routes, I can stop at any time and the DB has no idea what was coming, like that play we improvised it in the game.
What have you been working on with your receiving skills this offseason?
This offseason I have been trying to get faster, and my hands are improving. I have been working on my route running a lot. I know 4.5 is fast, but I want to get faster so I’ve been practicing my 40 and running on the track.
What style of offense are the Patriots executing this season?
We are running a Spread to get the pass game going, but we will run a lot this year.
What roles are you taking on this season?
I am lining up in every receiver spot, slot, outside, kick returner, and I might be on punt return.
The season has been pushed to Friday, Oct. 16, scheduled to play Vandebilt Catholic. What is the practice schedule for you guys from now until then?
Actually, our first game is now on Oct. 2 against South Terrebonne. We practice Monday through Friday. We just started using our helmets and shoulder pads, but mainly we’ve been in our helmets. Everything is now in Phase 3, we might go full pads here soon.
With practices ongoing, where are you already seeing the improvements in your game from your offseason workouts?
Catching the ball consistently and I am coming off one big play and then making another. My conditioning has improved a lot. I can come back and keep on going at them.
Time for one of my favorite things to talk about, recruiting. Which schools have offered you?
Mississippi State and Virginia.
Which schools are showing interest?
Tulane and Memphis.
If allowed to take visits next week, which schools would you like to visit?
I’d like to go to Virginia and Mississippi State.
O’Ryan, it was a lot of fun covering ground with you today learning more about your skills on the field. I thank you for your time and wish you guys a great season until we talk again.
Yes, sir. Thank you.
Photo credit: James family; O’Ryan James