Interview: 4-Star 2021 Mater Dei OLB Raesjon Davis Updates Recruiting and Visits
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The evolution of the hybrid defender in the box who can do almost anything is growing with guys like Class of 2021 talent Raesjon Davis stepping up to fulfill the demand. The 6-1, 215-pound, defender was all over the field for back-to-back national champs Mater Dei in 2018 coming up with 44 stops, 20.5 tackles for a loss, 7.5 sacks, one quarterback hurry, one interception, five passes defended, four forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery earning Sophomore All-American honors. His recruiting stock has sailed playing against a national schedule with 12 Division I offers on the table and four-star status to go with it.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with one of the nation’s top outside linebackers in the nation covering his sophomore campaign and offseason workouts while receiving a recruiting update.
Interview
Raesjon, the position you played during the 2018 season for Mater Dei has to be the most fun on the field as a defender to cut loose and just play. What were some of your responsibilities from one play to the next as the Monarchs outside linebacker?
“On first and second down I was a traditional outside linebacker covering the flats and keeping outside containment inside. We went to a Jet package on third down. That is when I got to the quarterback and still kept the inside contained.”
You were a nightmare in the backfield for opposing Trinity League offenses. I think your stat line for quarterback hurries might be slighted in a big way. What was working so well for you last season at getting to the QB?
“I was catching them off-guard with my speed off the edge. There are not as many speed rushers in Trinity league, I think that worked in my favor.”
You also got to drop back into coverage, how did that part of your game improve during your sophomore season?
“During my freshman year on the JV team, I had two picks that season. I have been good at dropping back into coverage, it is normal for me.”
Will your role on defense change next season with the Monarchs?
“I don’t think so. We have not spoken about it if so. I am guessing that w keep it the same but add a few more pieces.”
Which areas of your game are being focused on during the offseason?
“I am working on my strength and getting to the QB faster. I am working on my speed and bull-rush.”
What goals have you set for yourself this offseason?
“My goals are to get double-digit sacks next season.”
Are you playing 7v7 this offseason?
“Yes, sir. I am playing with Ground Zero.”
Have you competed in any national camps yet?
“Yes. I competed at the Nike Opening Regional and last week I was at the Adidas camp.”
How did the Nike camp go for you?
“It went well. I won most my reps, I think I lost one rep but none in the one-on-ones.”
You are a hit on the recruiting trail. How many offers do you have now?
“I have 12 offers.”
Davis’ Offer Sheet (12): Auburn, USC, Michigan, Oklahoma, Florida State, LSU, Arizona, Oregon State, Arizona State, Oklahoma State, Utah, and Oregon
Which schools are showing interest in you?
“Nebraska, Wisconsin, and Notre Dame.”
Have you taken any unofficial visits over the last few months?
“Yes. I went on visits to Florida and LSU.”
How did the Florida visit go?
“It was good. It was raining, so we did not get the full experience, but I did like it a lot.”
What about LSU, how did that go?
“That was really good. I talked to Coach O (Ed Orgeron – head coach). He talked to me and my parents, we talked for about 30 minutes. I loved it a lot at LSU.”
Do you have any planned visits coming up?
“Yes. I have a hometown visit with USC planned.”
When you are not practicing or doing a football related activity, what are you doing for fun?
“I usually play basketball or Fortnight or Madden with my friends.”
Raesjon, it was great learning more about your game today and recruiting process. Thanks for your time.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Davis family; Raesjon Davis at LSU with Ed Orgeron