Interview: Big and with Wheels, WR Mickey Stokes is Ready to Showcase Skills with Foothill JUCO
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
All the talent in the world is there, just the gaudy stat line is not supporting it for college coaches to take notice. During Mickey Stokes senior season with Lancaster’s Manheim High School (PA), five different targets had 22 or more receptions with each receiver getting from 300 to 580 yards in the passing attack. For the 6-4, 195-pound, Stokes, he pulled down 23 passes covering 402 yards with six scores. Helping the Blue Streaks to an 11-1 season in 2019, he also got time in on defense in the nickel package stopping eight plays with two picks and five passes broken up in part-time action.
To further showcase his Division I talents, Stokes signed with California’s Foothill JUCO for the 2020 season, a season that has been pushed. Recruiting interest is there for Stokes, coaches just need to see the reels.
For insight on his path to Foothill and his offseason workouts, Stokes stopped by the RNG Lab for a detail conversation.
Interview
Mickey, your senior on the field with the Blue Streaks was an explosive one averaging 17.5 yards per catch. What were you doing so well leading to all the big plays?
I am tall, and our best thing was going deep. We took advantage of that, especially against short corners. Everyone on my team could play. All of our receivers had 400-plus yards, everyone was getting the ball.
What offensive set were you in during the 2019 season?
It was a Spread, but it varied. We changed it up based on who we were playing.
Which routes along the tree were you running?
A lot of goes, slants, and posts.
You got some time on defense as well in Manheim’s secondary. How did that go for you?
Usually when I went in it was at nickel. When we knew they were passing, I’d go in as an extra defensive back. I liked playing nickel. I liked covering people and playing over the top.
Out of high school you signed with Foothill JUCO in California. What is the status on the 2020 football season with Foothill?
Our season was cancelled. I have been doing stuff on my own, lifting and speed workouts during these tough times.
In preparation for the 2020 season, what had you been working on with your game as a receiver?
As a receiver, I have been working on straight line speed, flexibility, and agility. I have been working with trainers for speed and agility. My DB coach at Foothill, I have been working with him on the little things to my game. There are a lot of coaches in the area helping me improve my overall game. The base has been lifting, strength and conditioning.
You show it in your senior reel, you’ve got wheels. What is the best 40 time you’ve dropped?
My best time back in September was a 4.59. I know I am way faster now. I have been working on stride. My stride was short with choppy steps. Next time I run it, my time will go up.
With all this extra time to work on your skills, where are you already seeing the big improvements from a year ago?
Now, I am better because I can use my hips more effectively. I am better on the shorter routes and I can run more routes correctly. If needed, I can move to the slot and breakdown and run better routes like digs.
From high school to Foothill, which college programs are showing interest?
Texas Tech and Robert Morris are showing a lot of interest. UPenn, Mississippi Valley State, Oregon State, Nevada, Cal, and Idaho State are also showing interest.
With the season being cancelled, what is the biggest frustration for you with recruiting?
Schools are wanting college film, game or practice film. I am hoping for a season or for practices to get going so I can get those offers.
When is your graduation date from Foothill?
I am pretty sure it is early December 2021. I can transfer in spring of 2022.
Last question. What is the plan going forward?
My plan going forward is to keep working out. We have a plan for the spring and summer. I am hoping to visit schools then and do some one-day prospect camps so they can see me in person.
Mickey, keep up the hard work. Pulling for you and the team to have a season and to get back on the practice field soon.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Pierre-Pierre (@yopierrepierre)/Stokes family; Mickey Stokes