Interview: 2019 North Carolina RB DeMorreay Surratt is a Talent Coming into His Own
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
One of the downsides to being an outstanding all-around athlete at the high school level, you can do a lot of different things on the field really well to help your team win which usually translates to a lot of different positions played based on team needs. In any sport and at any level, teams do not win without selfless players with a squad first mentality – all sums up the givings, talents and mentality of DeMorreay Surratt.
If you do not know much about Crest High School, year in and year out the Chargers take to the field with an immensely talented group of players; pairing it down to great athletes does not do justice. During the 2017 season, Surratt was one of those guys flying around the field helping his team post eight wins in the column playing linebacker. In stats posted through 11 games in 2017, Surratt was one of the team leaders in tackles coming up with 45 total. Flip to his senior season, Surratt is a part of a three-headed monster coming out of the tailback spot sharing the rock with Rae-Kwon Young-Turner and Jalin Graham. Of the trio, the 6-2, 190-pound, play-maker leads the group in yards per carry on average with 8.7 yards per attempt. For the season, off 43 totes he has 373 yards and three touchdowns scored, second best on the team.
If one takes the time to watch Surratt in action, his speed and athleticism immediately come to the forefront. While he may still run a little upright, call that green to the position, he is a natural at making defenders miss and turning on the jets from zero to 60 in a heartbeat. The tremendous upside for Surratt is starting to pull next level attention his way. With National Signing Day getting closer and closer, all the looks will start turning to offers.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with the overlooked Class of 2019 tailback/linebacker to learn more about his game and recruiting prospects.
Interview
DeMorreay, two things pop out to me about your talents running the ball, speed and field vision. How would you describe your talents as a running back?
“That’s basically it. I would add that I have a high motor. (Laughs) I’m not sure how to explain my abilities as a running back yet.”
I know your Hudl page has a 4.52 down for your 40 time, but your game speed looks faster. Have you posted a better time than 4.52?
“Yes. At a Wake Forest camp, I ran a 4.44.”
That I do believe. It shows on your reel. Do you run track?
“Yes, sir.”
Which events?
“The 4×1, 100 meters, and the 4×2.”
What is your best time in the 100?
“I am not sure. I think it is a 10-something, but I don’t remember the exact time.”
Alright. Back to football. Which game has been your best this season?
“The Forestview game was my best.”
Why do you consider that to be your best game?
“I was getting to the outside easily and had some good runs up the middle. It was an easy and fun game.”
Is there an area of your game you feel gets overlooked or maybe is not showcased within the offense?
“No, sir. I can catch the ball, we just don’t do that too much in our offense.”
You have hands good enough to play receiver?
“Yes, sir. I used to play receiver as well.”
With recruiting, which schools are showing interest in you but have not offered yet?
“I am receiving interest from Southern University and Georgia Southern at running back. At linebacker, I am receiving interest from UCF and Western Carolina.”
You get North Gaston this Friday, what are you expecting from their defense?
“They stack the box, we are looking to pass some against them to open them up.”
What are your goals for the rest of the season?
“My goal is to get 25 touchdowns through the playoffs.”
That is a big goal from this point forward, I hope you get it.
“Yes, sir.”
DeMorreay, thanks for your time today and good luck on Friday and with the rest of the regular season.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Hudl.com; No. 1 DeMorreay Surratt in action