Interview: Narbonne 2018 LB Darien Butler Proving to be a Top California Talent

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Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @HogManInLA

Year after year the state of California turns out some of the best high school football talent in the nation. One of the fast risers in the 2018 recruiting class college coaches across the country are starting to take notice of is Narbonne linebacker Darien Butler.

Butler showcased his raw skills starting for the Gauchos as a sophomore. Stats through a 14-2 season showed him tallying 69 tackles, 48 solo, with at least three passes defended. The inside and outside linebacker is back at it handing out grass stains to ball carriers with 55 tackles, between 15-20 tackles for a loss, a forced fumble, an interception, and three fumble recoveries with two returned for a quick-six in stats posted through the first eight games of the season.

The Gauchos are 10-0 this season looking to extend their unblemished record through the playoffs. The winning ways have attracted college coaches to the yard. Teams showing interest includes UCLA, Oregon, Colorado State, Boston College, Washington State, Washington, and Utah. Colorado has already offered the 6-0, 220 pound, playmaker.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I caught back up with Butler after the Gauchos completed their regular season to get a rundown on how his junior campaign played out while receiving an update on his recruitment thus far.

Interview

How important was it for Narbonne to close out the regular season undefeated?

“It was really important. It started in practice this summer. Our coaches were on us every day. They made sure we were ready. That is why we are undefeated.”

What kind of message did the Gauchos send with a 66-7 win over Banning to close out the season?

“It was a statement to let teams know were coming in the playoffs. It was a statement win, the last couple of game have been statement games.”

What kind of game do you have to be ready for against Arleta in the first round of the playoffs based on the film you’ve watched?

“Watching film on them, I know we have to play fast. They come out of the huddle quick. We have to be lined up and get to the ball.”

Which game has been your best this season?

“My best would be San Pedro (won 41-3). That game I got to the ball on every play. I was all around the ball. I had a good game against them.”

Who is the toughest player you’ve gone up against this season?

“To be honest, I can’t say. I go against our own running back every day in practice, Kameron Denmark (122 carries/901 yards /10 TDs). He’s the best I’ve seen all season.”

What strides have you made in your game this year?

“Playing smart, getting faster, and quicker reactions to plays. I’m swimming around the whole field, I’m always around the ball. I’m way better in my pass drops, getting hands on receivers and re-routing them. I’m allowing our defensive linemen to get coverage sacks securing the passing windows. I’m better at one-on-ones with running backs.”

Which teams are showing recruiting interest in you right now?

“Utah, Colorado, Washington State, Washington, Boston College, Oregon, Colorado State, and UCLA.”

You have an offer on the table, who from?

“Colorado.”

Do you have any unofficial visits planned?

“No, sir.”

What is your overall GPA?

“3.26.”

Have you taken the ACT or SAT yet?

“I’m taking the SAT coming up. I just signed up for it.”

This past weekend there were some great college games. Did you get to watch any?

“I watched the Oregon vs. USC game and the Illinois and Michigan State game. Watching Oregon/USC game, I love how fast they play in college. I like how physical it is.”

Darien, thanks for your time today and good luck in the playoffs.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: recruitingnewsguru.com; Darien Butler at a Rivals camp.

Photo credit: Hudl.com; No. 20 Darien Butler