Interview: 4-Star 2022 Washington WR/ATH Tobias Merriweather has All the Giftings
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
There are certain things college coaches cannot teach and with certain limitations on how far instruction can take a player. With Class of 2022 receiver/athlete Tobias Merriweather, there is seemingly no limitations to what he can do as the ideal collegiate wideout gifted with size, speed, and athleticism.
During the 2019 season, opposing 4A Washington secondaries had no answer for Merriweather’s talents on the outside with Union High School. The 6-4-185-pound, target snagged 43 passes for 766 yards five times crossing into the end zone. His speed was further showcased on special teams with 10 kicks taken back 209 yards and three punts going 29 the other way. His efforts and hard work earned first team All-Greater St. Helens League honors along with four-star recruiting status.
To the point of this offseason, Merriweather has received 11 scholarship offers with programs nationwide taking interest. The programs will get to see more of his abilities in 2020 adding cornerback to his list of duties. During his first interview with RNG, Merriweather sits down to talk about it all.
Interview
Tobias, you led the Titans and the Greater St. Helens District in receptions and receiving yards a year ago. What were you doing so well leading to the big season?
I was finding ways to get open and I had a good connect with my quarterbacks. I was making plays with the ball when it came my way.
What were some of the routes you were running within the scheme?
The routes that I ran the most were corners, bench routes, posts, goes, and slants. My coaches did a good job of finding what I was good at and getting the ball to me.
How were opposing secondaries trying to slow your roll?
I saw Cover 2, Man, or Cover 4, and some brackets. We have other good receivers; if they double-team me, they are screwed.
Your speed is a difference maker, how fast are you?
I haven’t run a 40 since my freshman year. The last thing I ran was a 300, and I ran a 34.
A couple of other things that standout in your game is your athleticism, more to the point the way you can adjust to the ball, and your hands. What do you feel are some of the other strengths to your overall game on offense?
My ability to run any route, get open, my versatility, and my football IQ. I used to play quarterback, that helps me a lot.
Where all will we see you on the field in 2020?
On both sides of the ball this year; at receiver and corner.
What has been your offseason workout routine to prepare for both roles physically?
This offseason I have been doing a lot of conditioning and weight lifting. I am getting my weight up and getting bigger, stronger, and faster by working out three times a day Monday through Friday.
Wow. That is impressive.
Thank you.
What have you focused on with your technique this spring and summer?
With my technique, I have been working on getting in and out of my breaks to run more routes effectively. I am also working on my footwork and my running form.
College programs are loving what they are seeing in you as a receiver. How many offers do you have so far?
Eleven.
Merriweather’s Offer Sheet: California, Colorado, Nebraska, Nevada, Oregon, Oregon State, Utah, Utah State, USC, Washington, and Washington State
Which schools are watching you showing interest?
Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Arizona, Arizona State, LSU, and Alabama has sent some mail.
Going back to last season, did you get to take any visits?
Yes, I visited USC, Notre Dame, Cal, Washington, Oregon, and Oregon State.
Once the campuses open up, do you have any planned visits or any you would like to take?
For me, it is most important to visit Oklahoma, but I am not sure how it will happen with all going on.
Understood. Last question. What goals have you set for yourself for the 2020 season?
This year I want to break the school’s receiving record for yards and touchdowns.
Awesome. Tobias, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your workouts this summer preparing for the upcoming season.
Thank you.
Photo credit: Merriweather family; Tobias Merriweather