Interview: 2020 Washington All-American RB Sam Adams Updates Recruiting and Visits
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Anyone following Washington high school football even for a minute is well-aware of Class of 2020 Eastside Catholic running back Sam Adams II. The 6-2, 200-pound, play-maker had a standout 2018 season rushing 94 times for 929 yards with 17 scores and pulled down 10 passes for another 203 yards with three more scores going up on the board. Proving that he is an all-around standout talent, Adams showed out on special teams coming up with 226 kick return yards on 11 attempts and 276 punt return yards on 13 tries. Adding that extra piece to the growing legend, he shinned on defense at corner putting an end to 31 plays while picking off six passes. All went to a team goal seeing the Crusaders post a 13-1 record capturing a Class 3A Washington state title earning MaxPreps’ All-American and Seattle Time Player of the honors along the way.
With 31 offers on the table and a four-star recruiting ranking, the process for Adams turns to a more serious note as his junior season starts to fade into his senior campaign. Getting the inside scoop on his offseason workouts and vast recruiting options, I sat down for an update with the Sammamish area recruit.
*Click link for Nov. 29, 2018, RNG interview with Sam Adams II
Interview
Sam, the 2018 season was a great one for you and the Crusaders capturing a Washington state title. The championship trophy aside, what are you most proud of from your junior season?
“The bounce back I had from the last couple of seasons. It was great to have a full season for myself. That was something I was grateful for this year.”
You proved you were more than a standout running back in 2018 applying your talents on special teams and on defense. How did your overall game improve as a defender last season?
“I think I got more comfortable on defense since last playing during my freshman year. Getting back out there, I felt better as the season went on. I was able to be used more on defense for my team.”
I know you received a lot of post-season honors, which honors did you earn?
“I earned Seattle Times Player of the Year, I made three different All-State teams, a Junior All-American team, and I made the All-Metro team.”
Fantastic. How did it feel when you found out you were named to MaxPreps’ 2018 All-American Team?
“That felt amazing. Great feeling knowing that all my hard work had paid off.”
Once the season ended, how long did you rest to let your body recover before you started working out again?
“I started working out when we got back from break, but right after the season I jumped back on it about two to three weeks.”
What are you focusing on overall with your game this spring?
“My goals are to get bigger, faster, and stronger so I can dominate next season.”
How many offers do you have now?
“I have 31 offers.”
Which schools were the last couple to offer you?
“Utah and Maryland.”
*Adams’ offer sheet: Washington, Cal, Arizona, Arizona State, Nebraska, Ohio State, Boise State, Oregon State, San Diego State, SMU, Washington State, Florida, Louisville, LSU, TCU, Tennessee, Michigan, Michigan State, Penn State, Purdue, Rutgers, BYU, Utah, Maryland, Oregon, Texas Tech, Wisconsin, Colorado, Texas, and Texas A&M
Do you have any upcoming visits you may take?
“I am still talking to my dad about that. We are looking to go to Alabama, Clemson, and Georgia. There will be some others, but those are the ones we have been discussing right now.”
As you turn the corner on your recruiting, what will you start narrowing in on with your recruiting as you get closer to a final decision?
“I will be looking at my relationship with coaches at each school. I will look at their facilities, location, who is showing most interest, and early playing time.”
Sam, as always, I appreciate your time today. Good luck with your workouts.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Bodine Sports Photography; No. 2 Sam Adams