Interview: 4-Star 2022 Alabama RB Emmanuel Henderson Covers Recruiting and 2,000-Yard Season
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Some players take the field with talents and gifts beyond everyone else suiting up to play. When said person puts in the hard work to cultivate those talents, amazing things happen when the lights come on Friday nights in the fall. Geneva County High School rode the abilities of Class of 2022 running back Emmanuel Henderson to a 4-6 season watching their star running back roll for over 2,000 yards on the ground with 46 total touchdowns while breaking a kick return record taking at least five back to the house. The 6-1, 185-pound, four-star back has the attention of college football programs across the country, especially in-state powers Alabama and Auburn.
In an RNG first-look, Henderson sat down for an in-depth Q&A covering the game on the field and the process off it.
Interview
Emmanuel, the season you turned in as a sophomore was nothing short of amazing. Was there a point during the schedule where you were even surprising yourself with all the big plays you were making?
“Yes, sir; most of the time. Like when we played Ariton, they are a good football program, I dropped two kick returns but picked them up returning them for the touchdown. I did that a couple of times during the season but came out with a good outcome.”
Your field vision coupled with your speed is next level. What were some of the other aspects of your game allowing for the high production on the field?
“Watching the defense seeing how they move so you can work through it. When you learn their defense, you can see the field and know where to go.”
As mentioned, your speed is explosive and next level material. What is the fastest 40-yard dash time you’ve posted?
“A 4.4 at a camp. That was at my first camp at Troy.”
Nice. Last season, how were the coaches getting the ball into your hands?
“On jet sweeps and tosses, that is it mostly.”
How did your overall game improve last season?
“It improved a lot. Last season I was much faster, much stronger, and I am working on getting stronger now. I want to improve on everything.”
You were also able to further showcase your speed on special teams. How did that part of your game come along in 2019?
“It was good. I worked on it with my field vision; I like being a kick returner.”
Once the 2020 season gets going, which positions will you be playing?
“Probably some at quarterback with direct snaps and runs, at tailback, kick returner, and slot receiver.”
A minute ago, you mentioned wanting to improve on everything, what all are you working on this spring?
“This spring I am working on my strength mostly, and doing a lot of footwork drills.”
If the college camps happen this summer, are there any you may attend?
“I’m not sure. This summer I am supposed to be visiting a couple of places.”
How many offers do you have now?
“Fourteen.”
Which programs were the last couple to offer you?
“The last couple to offer were Michigan, USC, Virginia Tech, and Arkansas.”
Henderson’s Offer Sheet: Alabama, Auburn, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Michigan, Mississippi State, Penn State, South Carolina, Southern Mississippi, Tennessee, USC, and Virginia Tech
Which programs are showing interest but have not offered yet?
“Clemson and LSU.”
Going back over the last few months, did you get a chance to take any visits?
“Yes, sir. I went to Auburn and Alabama Junior Days. We were supposed to go to LSU, but the COVID-19 cancelled that trip. I was supposed to go to Florida too.”
How did the Auburn visit go?
“It was good. We played games, toured the campus, tried on the uniforms, and had a photo shoot. It was a good visit.”
And the Alabama trip, how did that go?
“It was good too. Mostly it was the same, we toured the campus, did a photo shoot, and I sat down to talk with Coach (Nick) Saban; that is when I got offered.”
Very cool. The LSU and Florida trips were planned but cancelled, which visits might you take in the coming months?
“Michigan, probably, Auburn and Alabama again, LSU, Florida, and Georgia.”
You also tear it up on the hardwood.
“Yes, sir.”
How did the 2019-20 season go for you?
“It was good. We did well as a team, but we need to work on some things. We had some young guys. Next year we will make a playoff run and maybe get a state championship this season; I am hoping for one this season.”
You can sky, did you get any poster dunks on guys in games this season?
“Yes, sir; two or three.”
What did you average on the court?
“18 points per game.”
Last one for you; my virus buster. What have you been doing to entertain yourself during the quarantine?
“I’ve been fishing a lot. I work out and go fishing.”
What have you been catching?
“Bass mostly.”
Emmanuel, thanks for your time today and good luck with your workouts and fishing trips.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Henderson family; Emmanuel Henderson at Alabama and Auburn