Interview: 4-Star 2022 Louisiana CB Laterrance Welch to Earn Athlete Label This Season
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Along the way to Acadiana High School’s 2019 Louisiana state championship run (15-0), the Rams defense was downright salty. The crew tore through the best 5A teams along the way only allowing an average of 14.8 points each time they took the field. One of the rising stars on the Rams’ squad a year ago making dreams come true for all was Class of 2022 cornerback Laterrance Welch.
During Welch’s first season as a varsity starter he quickly developed into that lockdown corner manning up against the other team’s best receiver. As Welch developed his island allowing his teammates to focus on the other 11, his game against the run did not suffer. At 6-1, 180-pound, Welch is not afraid to come up to make the big hit or to chop down a power back at the knees. When Welch completed his sophomore campaign, he had compiled an estimated 24 tackles with 24 pass breakups, five picks, and picked up two fumbles earning four-star recruiting status. The status and productivity on the field has been matched along the recruiting trail with 22 offers extended thus far.
Making his first appearance in the RNG Lab, Welch breaks down his game for us on defense, talks expanding his role in 2020 with the Rams, and gives an update on his recruiting prospects.
Interview
Laterrance, your cover skills are legit, but so is your tackling. You’re not afraid to come up and pop a running back or a receiver. Does that part of your game get the attention it deserves?
Yes, sir.
It does? Most corners don’t get the respect, especially if they cover the way you do.
Yes, sir.
Most corners are so focused on being a cover guy they do not get busy on running plays or tackling on passing plays in front of them. What is the mentality you take to the field that makes you such an effective tackler?
It is fun for me. On a screen, when you get the chance to hit someone, I go for it; if they are looking at you or not. That is fun for me.
What coverages were the Rams running last season?
Cover 2, 4, and 3.
Week to week, what kind of assignments were you drawing against the opposition’s receivers?
I was on the island with their best receiver each week.
When the season ended what did you feel were the overall strengths to your game as a corner?
My Cover 2 and man ability. Last year was my first year starting varsity, I was on the island with their best receiver each week.
The Rams were clean last season with a 15-0 record. How did that championship run help motivate you guys this offseason with your workouts?
Everyone has had a chip on their shoulder since our first workout this offseason. We keep working hard. Our defense is as close as ever now. We are ready to take a run at it.
Where all are you lining up on the field in 2020?
This season I am playing on all the special teams, kick return and kickoff, corner, and receiver.
What have you been working on this offseason as a corner?
I have been working on my off-man, man to man, and press ability.
And what about as a receiver?
My routes, footwork, and my hands.
When did the Rams start fall camp?
We got going two weeks ago.
You said the defense is flying around, how is the team looking overall?
We look good. We can go for another run.
The team was scheduled to kick off against Carencro on Sept. 4. Is that game still happening and on time? If so, what are you expecting in that showdown against the Bears?
We are skipping that game. Our season now starts on Oct. 8.
Do you have any top games or rivalry games circled for the 2020 season?
Not really. LC (Lafayette Christian) is one and Carencro would have been another, but we are skipping our first two games. I’m just ready for all the big-time players, I am ready to hop on the island with them again.
What goals have you set for the upcoming season?
I want more interceptions, more tackles, and another state championship ring. The goal is to get better throughout the season.
Let’s close out talking about recruiting. Are there any schools showing interest or have they all offered already?
(laughs) Texas A&M is showing interest.
How many offers have been given to you?
Twenty-two.
Which programs were the last couple to offer?
McNeese, UCF, and Memphis.
Welch’s Offer Sheet: Alabama, Arkansas, Central Florida, Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Georgia Tech, McNeese State, Memphis, Miami, Michigan State, Minnesota, Mississippi State, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, South Alabama, Tennessee, Texas, Tulane, and Virginia
Going back to last season up until mid-March when visits were stopped, did you get to take any unofficial visits?
Yes, I went to Texas A&M and South Alabama.
How did the A&M go for you? What did you see and do?
We went as a team. We toured the campus and saw the locker room. They have a great facility at Texas A&M.
Have you taken any virtual visits?
Yes, I took one with Tennessee.
When the real deal is allowed again, are there any planned visits ahead?
I’d like to take unofficial visits to all the close schools. The big schools that are far away, I will wait and take those on official visits.
Which ones are some of the close ones you might visit in the coming months?
Alabama is close, Tulane, South Alabama, Oklahoma, Florida State, Mississippi State, Arkansas, and Georgia.
Laterrance, it was great covering all this ground with you today. Wishing you and the Rams a successful season until we meet up again.
Thank you.
Photo credit: Welch family; Laterrance Welch