Interview: No. 1 Overall 2019 Recruit Kayvon Thibodeaux backing it up at DE Sophomore Season

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @HogManInLA

There is always a joy seeing a player rise above expectations or play beyond his years. That is exactly what Kayvon Thibodeaux did for Dorsey High School during his freshman season in 2015.

Thibodeaux defied all the odds making the varsity level during his freshman season. Beyond proving that he belonged on the field, he played at a level befitting Freshman All-American honors, which he earned. Entering the 2016 season, Thibodeaux was labeled the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2019 class by 247Sports. The hype and attention coming Thibodeaux’s way has not slowed down his maturation on the field during his sophomore season.

Exact stats for the Dons are not kept, or at least shared online, but the scouting report on Thibodeaux reads as it should for a standout defensive end. He is quick off the ball, uses an array of moves instead of constantly speed rushing, stops the run, shows great strength, and plays with a high motor.

The 6-5, 230 pound, Los Angeles area talent has already caused a stir in the college ranks with 10 offers on the table. The teams hoping to forge a bond leading to a National Signing Day signature includes Michigan, Tennessee, Arizona, Miami, Oregon State, Montana State, Washington State, Utah, USC, and UCLA.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I caught up with Thibodeaux to get his thoughts on his sophomore season to date and an update on his recruitment process.

Interview

Kayvon, stats on your freshman and sophomore season are nowhere to be found. How many sacks did you get during your freshman season?

“I had nine sacks in three games.”

When did you get the call up to the varsity level with Dorsey?

“In the playoffs.”

The Dons are off to a manageable start at 2-2, do you guys have a chance to make a run deep into the playoffs this year?

“Oh yeah. I think we can get to the championship game. I see us against Narbonne. That will be a real tough game. We can definitely make it to the championship.”

What are your strengths on the field as a defensive end?

“I can change direction really well, I’m fast, and I have long arms.”

What are your thoughts on your individual performance in 2016?

“I can always play better. I cannot say that I played bad but I just want to play at a higher level.”

What has been your best game so far this season and why is that game your best game?

“My best game was against Birmingham (Sept. 16 – won 41-0). I had four sacks and nine tackles in that game.”

Did you max out this summer in the weight room?

“I did on bench. My max was 260.”

What was the best 40-yard dash you ran this summer?

“I ran a 4.73 at USC’s Rising Stars Camp.”

How many offers do you have right now?

“I have 10 offers.”

Are there any schools laying that early groundwork with you by being in regular contact?

“The only schools doing that are in touch with me on a regular basis are USC and UCLA. Both USC and UCLA are my home schools. I’ve already made one USC game this season.”

How did your unofficial to USC go?

“It was the Utah game at Coliseum. It was a great experience and a great game. I got to go into the locker room to see how they do everything. Overall it was a good visit.”

Which schools are recruiting you right now but have not offered you yet?

“Ohio State and Stanford.”

Do you have any other visits lined up for this season?

“Oh yeah. I’m checking out UCLA, not sure which game yet. We have film in the mornings on Saturday. UCLA normally plays in the morning. Whichever game lines up with my schedule, I’ll go to that one.”

What is your GPA?

“I have a 4.0.”

Do you participate in any other sports at Dorsey?

“Baseball and track.”

Which events in track?

“The 100 and 4×1.”

Who is the best player you have gone up against so far at the varsity level?

“I don’t remember his name but the tackle for Narbonne last year (Alex Akingbulu). He was like 6-foot 7-inches. I think he went to UCLA. He was like going against a brick wall. Hopefully I will see him again one day at the next level.”

Are there any games coming up on the schedule you are a little more excited to play than the others?

“Hawkins (Oct. 13).”

That should be a good one.

“It will be.”

Kayvon, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your season.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: uscfootball.com; Kayvon Thibodeaux at USC’s Rising Stars Camp.

Photo credit: hudl.com; Dorsey High School warms up for a game.

Photo credit: 247sports.com; Kayvon Thibodeaux on the field with Dorsey.