Interview: Standout 2021 Arkansas ATH Donavan Nooner is Flying Under Recruiting Radar
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
There is an amazing recruiting gem waiting to be found by college coaches at Atkins High School, and his name is Donavan Nooner. The Class of 2021 three-way player ripped apart Arkansas competition during the 2020 season but is still an unknown to those outside the Natural State, and maybe to some inside.
The stats alone scream for All-State recognition for Nooner, and at multiple positions. It is easier to see his impact on the game on offense after tearing past defenses for 1,288 yards on the ground off 154 totes with 15 touchdowns scored. Adding to his playmaking abilities, he secured 26 passes for 446 yards lighting up the scoreboard six more times with five total two-point conversions dotting the stat sheet. On special teams, Nooner had a highlight reel 85-yard kick return for a touchdown and took back two punts for 37 more yards.
When an athlete like Nooner is on the roster, it is best to take advantage of all that he can bring to the game; and that is what the Red Devils coaching staff did. The 5-10, 175-pound, standout put down 57 ball carriers, 38 on his own, with nine tackles for a loss, two sacks, a pick, and two forced fumbles. The stats are mixed without clarity. Nooner was alternating between linebacker and corner being positioned to make the biggest impact on stopping the opposition’s top player.
In an RNG first-look, Nooner visited the Lab to rundown his amazing performance during the 2020 season.
Interview
Donavan, when it comes down to a footrace there are very few people that are going to keep up with you. Let’s talk about this from the jump, how fast are you?
My best 40 was a 4.52. I ran that during my ninth-grade year.
Wow. As a ninth-grader you posted a 4.52?
Yes, sir.
That is impressive.
Thank you.
That speed was without a doubt showcased out of the Red Devils backfield rushing for 1,288 yards. Beyond your speed, what did you have working during the 2020 season allowing you to be so productive?
Really, I was using my shiftiness. Every time I ran it, I ran as hard as I could. If they were standing still or flatfooted, I was past them before they could react.
What were some of the types of plays called to get the rock to you?
They loved power plays with me. I can read and hit the hole at any speed. That was our main one. They’d line me up at slot and receiver too. I was getting screens. My coaches were do anything they could to put the ball in my hands to make a play.
How did your overall game improve as a receiving threat this season?
It improved tremendously. Last year I didn’t get to showcase my skills as much. I worked on that part of my game all summer.
You also showed out on defense as well. Where were you lining up on defense and what scheme were you guys executing?
We ran mostly a 3-4, and some 4-3. I was at outside linebacker or at corner if they needed me out there. If the other team had a good receiver, I’d play corner on him. Other than that, I was at linebacker all year.
Once the season ended, what did you feel were the strengths to your game as a defender?
Getting to the ball and making the play. I was always the person trying to make every tackle, I was trying to do everything I could to help my team win.
And what about on offense?
Running the ball. I had moments of lowering my shoulder for extra yards, but my objective is to score. The easiest way for me to do that is to run past people.
If we were to watch your best game of the 2020 season, which one are we watching?
Probably the Danville game.
Why did you pick that one?
I had 20 rushes for 315 yards, 395 all-purpose yards, and four total touchdowns.
Dang. That qualifies. Are you competing in any other sports at Atkins?
We are 4-0 in basketball right now. My coach is trying to get me to run track this spring too.
In the classroom, what is your cumulative GPA?
A 2.9.
Last question for you. Being that true athlete that made an impact for his team in all three phases of the game, what do you feel sets you apart from other Class of 2021 recruits?
My vision, I see holes that form before they are there. I’m always the first one in practice and the last one leaving. I’m always going hard because I am trying to succeed.
Donavan, it was great spending time with you learning about the player behind the fantastic game footage. Thanks for your time and good luck with the recruiting process.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Nooner family; Donavan Nooner