Missouri: Interview with Staley Class of 2017 Running Back Julian Ross

Written by Charlie Beuttel

Twitter: @charlie_cds3

Staley High School, located in Kansas City, had a great season in 2015 as the Falcons went 9-2 and reached the third round of the playoffs before suffering a heartbreaking 27-16 loss to Park Hill. Staley’s only regular season loss came in Week 5 when they were stunned by Fort Osage, 17-14 in overtime.

Throughout the season, the Falcons used their explosive offense to score a whopping 30.18 points per game. The good news for Staley fans is that one of the leaders of the offense, running back Julian Ross, is returning for his senior season.

Ross ran for 1,200 yards and had 16 touchdowns in 2015 despite not starting the first three games of the season. After the season, the 5’11”, 185 pound, playmaker was named first-team All-Conference as a running back.

The Class of 2017 prospect has also been catching the eye of college as Ross only has four college and is receiving interest from several other schools including Missouri and Kansas. Throughout the summer, this senior running back has back working hard to improve his game by attending college camps and become a better leader on the team.

Ross also works hard in the classroom where he has a 3.0 GPA and has plans to study criminology or sports science in college.

In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I sat down with Julian to talk about his career at Staley High School and his recruiting process.

Interview

What are your thoughts on the 2015 season?

“It was an exciting season but also a sad one with all the injuries the team had. We didn’t finish where we wanted to be but we finished being one of the top teams in the state so I’m still proud of that.”

What are your thoughts on your individual performance?

“Well coming out I had to get use to the level of play and the different types of athletes we went against but I believe I did good. I know I could’ve done better.”

What are your strengths on the football field?

“I’d say being versatile. I’m able to go out and play different positions. I’m able to catch out of the backfield and have good vision. I’m also able to take a hit and deliver one if I need too.”

Did you receive any individual honors?

“I received Offensive MVP and first team All-Conference as running back.”

Have you gone to any camps?

“Yes, I’ve been to a lot including a Rivals camp and now I’m all camped out.”

How many offers do you have?

“Southeast Missouri State, Western Illinois, Missouri State, and South Dakota State.”

Are there any schools showing you interest that haven’t offered you yet?

“Missouri, South Dakota, North Dakota State, Illinois State, Northern Iowa, Southern Illinois, Kansas, Wyoming, and Stephen F. Austin.”

Have you gone on any visits?

“Not yet but I plan on taking some later in the summer.”

How are you preparing for your senior season?

“I’ve been working hard and I’ve become a leader for the team. I put myself in the correct mindset to get business done.”

How does Staley look going into the season?

“Honestly we look good. Offensively we got a new quarterback, John Raybourn, he helps out on leading because he is a natural leader and a smart decision maker with a good arm. My big guys in the trenches are what make it happen. They make me look good and I give them all the love they deserve. Eric Hoeper plays left tackle, Joe Armato is the left guard, Jared Vineyard is the center, Mohammed Harb plays right guard and then Trevor Blanketship and Jake Chase split time at right tackle. Our wide receiver Rod Criss and tight end Zach Elam are both going to have great seasons. They both are great athletes who know how to win.”

Have you set any team or personal goals for the upcoming season yet?

“I’m holding this team to the highest standard and that is to make it to the championship. Personally I am going for 1,700-plus and maybe even 2,000 yards.”

What is your fastest 40-yard dash time?

“My fastest 40 time is 4.48 and I actually ran that another time.”

What is your current GPA?

“3.0.”

What do you want to study in college?

“Criminology or Sports Science.”

Thank you for your time and good luck in your senior season.

“Thank you sir.”

Photos credits: kansascity.com; Staley RB Julian Ross