Interview: Dynamic 4-Star 2021 RB Byron Cardwell Eyeing Recruiting Visits
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
On Friday nights in San Diego, the high school football world knows that No. 21 for St. Augustine High School is getting the rock. What they don’t know is how many touchdowns he will pop off in a given game. Even with Division-I California schools charged to stop Byron Cardwell, the four-star running back still romped on defenses all season long.
The water cooler talk about the feats of Cardwell has been a regular thing in Southern California over the past three years. The 6-0, 200-pound, back is that rare mix of power, field vision, and agility who only needs a small crease to score from anywhere on the field with world-class speed. During the 2018 season, he showed he can be a relied upon workhorse back toting the pigskin 221 times for 1,096 with 13 touchdowns while pulling in 19 passes for 405 yards crossing the goal line two more times in a 10-4 season for the Saints.
Last season, Cardwell’s carries were held back with extra work put in on defense and special teams during the Saints 8-3 run. Seven kicks were taken the other way for 162 yards along with two punts spanning 56 yards. In part-time work, Cardwell added 11 tackles to the resume, 10 solo, and only as he can, picked off a pass taking it back to the house. With defenses shadowing his every move, Cardwell shook loose for 872 yards off 150 carries with a mind-blowing 23 rushing scores. His all-purpose nature was still in play securing 23 passes for 311 yards with two more touchdowns.
In a return visit to the RNG Lab, the 16-offer Class of 2021 recruit breaks down his offseason workouts and impressive recruiting process.
Interview
Bryon, it is so much fun watching you run the ball. There is that excitement you bring to the fans when the ball is in your hands. Silly question of the day, when you break into the second level and you see the secondary, what is going through your mind as you turn on the jets?
“They are not going to catch me, because I am too fast for them. It is me running to the goal line. No one will catch me once I get past the linebacker and in open space.”
Last time we spoke you had laid down a hand-timed 4.48. Have you posted a top timed run since then?
“Same time. I went to the Under Armour All-American Camp in LA, I ran a 4.6 in the rain, laser-timed. This track season, I have not run the 100, but in the 200 I ran a 22.5. In my 400, I ran a 53-something. We only had two meets, then the season was cancelled.”
During the 2019 season, you were a magnet for the end zone with 23 scores on the ground. Are you close to setting any school records with your play?
“Not that I know of. My 2020 goal is the single-season touchdown record for San Diego CIF.”
What is the record?
“I think it is 35 or 40 something touchdowns; I’m not sure. I just want the record.”
How did your overall game improve last season on offense?
“Last season, I ran the ball with purpose. I was more confident. My passing game picked up even more out of the backfield. I made myself more versatile for the offense. My pass blocking picked up more as well; I struggled with that my sophomore year. I got more muscle and more confidence, and I did better during my junior year.”
You got some time in on defense last season in the secondary, how did that go for you?
“It went really well. I was glad to be out on defense to showcase both sides. I had a pick-six and 11 tackles. I made plays on defense for my team. I found other ways to contribute.”
Where all were you lining up last season?
“At outside linebacker, like a rover, a little bit of safety and corner.”
What all will you be doing on the field during your senior year?
“During my senior year, I will be playing running back and on defense I will be playing safety or linebacker. I will be on special teams again returning kicks.”
How have you been preparing this spring for the 2020 grind?
“Running. I’ve been working on acceleration in the hole and getting to the second level. I am working to have better top end speed. My plan is to prepare ahead to play injury free, keep on top of my grades, take my visits and then decide where I want to go to school.”
You mentioned competing at the Under Armour All-American Camp, how did that camp go?
“It went really well. There was a lot of talent out there. I showed what I am capable of doing. I won MVP at that camp and I was given some Black History Month cleats.”
That’s awesome. Congratulations.
“Thank you.”
With recruiting, how many offers do you have now?
“Sixteen.”
Cardwell’s Offer Sheet: Arizona, Arizona State, Cal, Nebraska, LSU, Michigan, Nebraska, Oregon State, Penn State, San Diego State, San Jose State, Tennessee, UCLA, USC, Utah, Washington, and Washington State
Are there any schools who have not offered that are showing interest?
“Oregon, Florida, and a little bit from Stanford.”
Before recruiting was shut down, did you get a chance to take any visits?
“The only one I took was up to UCLA for their game against Oklahoma.”
How did that go?
“It went really well. I talked to Coach (Ethan) Young (player personnel) at the front gate. Then we went with a recruiting specialist, we talked for a bit. After that, we ate some snacks, watched the game, and had a good time.”
Once things get going again, are there any visits you may take, official or unofficial?
“I plan on taking an unofficial to UCLA, USC, Cal, Washington, Utah, San Diego State, and LSU this summer.”
How are you determining which schools will get your official visits?
“My officials will be to whichever school I want to see again, or will be the best fit for me.”
Are you thinking about putting out a “top schools list”?
“I have not put too much thought into it, maybe after the season.”
Byron, I appreciate your time today covering football and recruiting. Wishing you the best with your workouts this spring.
“Thank you.”
In-Game Video Speed Provided by: Recruiting Analytics
Photo credit: San Diego Union Tribune; No. 21 Byron Cardwell