Recruiting Update Interview with 3-Star 2019 APB Jamaal Bell
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Sample sizes of work and effort are all that high school players can give to college scouts on the recruiting trail. For Class of 2019 all-purpose back Jamaal Bell – his sample size of productivity cannot be denied. Over the past two seasons, Bell has ripped through opposing California defenses pounding the rock out of the backfield or scorching defensive backs with his speed and quickness in space. The talent is there, and college coaches are liking what they are seeing.
The onslaught on opposing California squads began in 2016 when Bell was lining up with Paraclete High School. He ran rough, and swiftly, 175 times for 1,404 yards with 14 scores on the ground. His play-making abilities were further put to use in the passing game snagging 37 passes for 811 yards with nine more reasons to celebrate.
The offseason brought a move from Paraclete to Antelope Valley High School. The number and colors on the jersey may have changed, but the game changing ways did not. Targeted more as a receiver than as a running back with the Antelopes, Bell pulled down 46 passes for 828 yards with 11 touchdowns and rushed for 246 yards off just 24 carries with three more trips into the end zone.
After earning first team All-CIF honors in 2016 and ’17, Bell’s recruiting stock is soaring. To date, nine offers have been dropped coming from UCLA, Arizona State, Washington State, Indiana, Nevada, Illinois, San Jose State, Utah, and Colorado. With opportunities for the 5-10, 185 pound, do-everything offensive weapon to showcase his talents at upcoming camps like the Nike Opening Regional in Los Angeles and the Under Armour Camp in Orange County (CA), expect the interest list to grow along with his offer sheet.
In a Recruiting News Guru stylized interview, I sat down with one of California’s top 2019 play-makers for an in-depth look at his skillset and all-around athleticism with an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Jamaal, before we start talking about your playing abilities, the first thing I want to know is, how fast are you?
“I’m pretty fast. I want to post a 4.35 this year. Last year, I ran a 4.43. I’m working on my get off so I can make it happen. When I get to the Opening, my goal is a 4.35.”
How did you develop your quickness in space, playing tag with a fly or chasing down humming birds?
(Laughs) “To be honest, it is natural. I have been fast all my life. I’ve been running track since I was 10-years-old.”
You had a breakout sophomore season with Paraclete in 2016 and followed that up with another big year with Antelope Valley last season. Your roles were essentially the same, but what were the differences in how you were used within the offenses?
“The coaches switched me at AV, they had me at receiver and at slot. We had a star running back. I did my best at slot. It didn’t matter to me where I play.”
You are a threat out of the backfield carrying the ball and in the passing attack, which do you like best, being a running back or a receiver?
“That’s what everyone asks me. I like both, but if I had to choose, I plan on getting bigger, so I will say running back. I like getting one-on-one with a linebacker.”
Was there a game last season that best exemplifies your all-around talents on the field?
“My best game Rio Mesa game (playoffs). I scored four touchdowns, one at running back and three at receiver. I went crazy that game.”
What do you consider your overall strengths on offense?
“My strengths are my speed, quickness, hands, and my get off. No one can keep up with me. And, I can catch in traffic.”
Where all might we see you on the field during your senior year?
“I will play some defense this year. I’m going to camps playing safety. On offense, they have me doing some Wildcat and I’ll be at running back. College coaches are asking me if I will play running back my senior year. I will, and still play at receiver.”
How are you preparing physically for your senior campaign?
“I’m working on my upper and lower body. I go to the hills every Sunday to run. I do a lot of pushups, dips, squats, and lunges, and a lot of footwork drills. Running track is helping as well.”
Going into recruiting, how many offers do you have now?
“I have nine offers.”
Which schools are showing interest but have not offered?
“USC, Oregon, and Florida.”
Do you have any planned visits set?
“I am going to a Junior Day to Arizona State on Saturday.”
Which camps and/or combines will you compete at this year?
“Nike (LA), after going to ASU, I’m going to an Under Armour camp, Rivals, and the Polynesian camp.”
You mentioned running track, which events?
“The 4×1, 100, and 200.”
What is your best time in the 100?
“My best time in the 100 is a 10.9, but I ran that in eighth grade.”
Wow. Impressive.
“Thank you.”
Last couple of questions. Do you have a pregame ritual – something that has to be done before you take the field or you feel off?
“I listen to music. That gets me hyped. I eat Skittles too. I’ve been doing that since I was little.”
Who is the funniest guy on the AV roster?
“The funniest guy on the team is Dylan Hall. We’ve been friends since youth football, he lives right behind me. Isi Riley and Dedrick Moore are funny too.”
Jamaal, thanks for your time today and good luck with your visit this weekend and at the Under Armour camp.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credit: Twitter; Jamaal Bell with AV (2017)
Photo credit: The Mercury News; Jamaal Bell with Paraclete (2016)