Interview: Offseason Brings Boston College Offer for 2023 Maryland OG/DL Tamarus Walker
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
After a second team MaxPreps All-American season in 2019, Tamarus Walker has put in double-duty over the following months preparing for his sophomore run… but Maryland has yet to suit up for their 2020 campaign. If and/or when Maryland laces them up, Walker will be back at it playing guard for McDonogh High School while also starting at defensive tackle. No matter when Maryland is cleared for the next football season, this spring or pushing to a start for 2021 in August, Walker is ready. The 6-4, 300-pound, Class of 2023 lineman has been working with trainers on both sides of the ball and to push his strength and athleticism forward. All that work has brought his first offer coming from Boston College.
*Click link for Sept. 2020 RNG interview with Tamarus Walker
Interview
Tamarus, when we connected last in the fall you were working hard on your game as an offensive lineman. Let’s catch everyone up. How have your overall workouts gone in the trenches this winter?
They have been going good. I have been working with Coach Dillon doing offensive lineman training. He has been getting me right.
You’ve always been a weight room warrior putting up impressive numbers. What are some of the workouts you’ve been doing to keep pushing your strength to higher levels?
I have been working with some trainers, Coach Bill, Coach Dan, Danny Harper, and Coach Yarbrough. They are helping me increase my maxes. I have been doing a lot of pushups, dips, squats – all different types of squats.
Taking that strength onto the field, which areas of your game have you been fine-tuning with your run blocking and pass-pro?
Working with Fat Boys OL, my coach has been a big help. Now I am more of a technician than last year. That will help me. I took it back to basics starting with my stance making sure it is powerful and sturdy. They have me working on driving off the snap, my kick-step and my hand placement. I feel confident going into the season about getting us a ring this year.
Is the plan still to play you at right guard this season?
Yes, sir.
Last we spoke, you were saying you might get some time in at defensive tackle as well. Is that still a possibility?
Yes, sir. I have been working with Coach Yarbrough; he’s saying I will be a big help in our defensive game.
Are you also starting at defensive tackle?
Yes, sir. I am starting both ways.
How have you been preparing for those opportunities?
Working on my get off, hand fighting, and my conditioning. I am conditioning myself to go both ways.
What is the status on the 2020 season in Maryland?
I think it begins in August. Right now, there is no 2020 season.
Have you guys even been able to practice?
No, we haven’t been practicing. I have been working out with my trainers trying to keep my body right and working on my technique to be ready for the season.
Let’s turn to happier news talking about recruiting. A couple of weeks ago you landed your first offer from Boston College; congratulations.
Thank you, sir.
Receiving that offer, after all this hard work and downtime from the season, what was that moment like for you?
It was exciting. I felt like after all this hard work, I got what I deserved. But I can’t stop now. I have to keep going and keep getting better to help my team.
Which other schools are showing interest?
My coach told me Syracuse, Maryland, Penn State, and Rutgers are showing interest.
Very cool. Are there any visits you may take this summer when the dead period is lifted?
I think I will visit Penn State and Boston College.
Tamarus, it was great catching up with you today. Keep going hard with your workouts this offseason.
Yes, sir. Thank you.
Photo credit: Walker family; Tamarus Walker with Kwan Williams (right)