Interview: 3-Star 2021 Arkansas CB Brodie Williams Talks Football and Navy Commitment

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

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The postseason honors are still rolling out in Arkansas, but Class of 2021 Jonesboro standout Brodie Williams has already nabbed one honor, All-Conference; and for good reason. The 5-10, 178-pound, Navy commit was the shutdown corner the Hurricane needed and offered his versatile skills for the betterment of the team playing safety as needed to have a bigger impact on the field. The result was a 40-tackle, five-pick, two-pick-six, and eight-pass breakup season. The 4.49 speed was further showcased on special teams with 21 kicks taken back 430 yards and 10 punts for another 58.

As announced on Aug. 21, Williams, a three-star recruit, verbally committed to the Naval Academy but offers and interest continue to come his way.

Talking about his big season with Jonesboro and recruiting process, Williams made a stop at the RNG Lab for a detailed conversation.

Interview

Brodie, even in a shortened 10-game season you were able to showcase the skills as a senior in the Hurricane secondary. What was clicking for you during the 2020 campaign allowing you to be so successful?

There was a lot of pressure to lead our team, they were looking at me to make big plays in big moments.

Taking away five passes with two returned for scores in 10 games may have you as a wanted man in some cities in Arkansas. What coverages were you guys running during the season?

(Laughs) Yes, sir. We ran Cover 2 – really, we ran everything. We switched it up so the offenses did not know what we were going to do. We disguised our defense, and I did the same at corner.

What was the philosophy of the defensive coordinator for you at corner? Was there a certain style or approach he had for you?

Press is my best ability, but I am versatile. I can do anything. We did some drag coverage which helps our reads. A lot of watching the receiver’s hips.

You also got snaps at safety, how did your DC switch you up from corner to safety for a given game?

I told my coach I wanted to be all over the field, so he moved me to safety at the end of the year to help make more plays down the stretch when we needed it.

How did your overall skills grow as a defensive back throughout the season?

I tried to improve everything. Over the offseason, I improved on my speed and put-on weight; I gained 10 to 12 pounds last summer. Being on the field every day, two to three times a day always doing drills helped me improve. Playing 7v7 with PPA out of Memphis, that showcased my talents against the best in the country.

What do you feel are the strengths to your game now?

My tenacity; I don’t like to lose. My press coverage is a strength. I am comfortable being on the island by myself without help.

In which game this season did you turn in your top performance?

Against West Memphis. I had three picks and one was a pick-six.

Your speed shows on tape. What is the best-timed run you’ve posted?

My best was a 4.49. I ran that this summer at school.

Besides football, what other varsity sports are you playing for Jonesboro?

My junior year I played basketball but stopped focusing on football. I run track too.

Which events in track are you competing in?

The 100, 200, 4×1, triple and long jump.

Which is your best individual event?

The 200. I like coming across the curve and turning it on.

Let’s get into the big topic for seniors, recruiting. Which schools are showing interest?

Memphis is showing a lot of interest. They are talking to me almost every day even though I am committed to Navy. There are a lot of schools hitting up my 7v7 coach. I know Jackson State and Florida State are showing interest as well.

Rolling with what you brought up, when did you commit to Navy?

A week before the season (announced Aug. 21).

Nice. I didn’t know you had committed to Navy. Congratulations.

Thank you.

How many total offers do you have now?

I have 10 or 11 offers.

Which program was the last couple to offer?

Western Illinois called out of nowhere to offer me. We were on the phone for about 30 seconds, they said they offered me.

Did you get to take any visits in 2020, academic or unofficial football visits?

Yes, I took an unofficial to LSU, Houston, Memphis, and Arkansas.

Are you planning on taking any visits in 2021, even just to go see the campus and get a feel for an area?

I think I will in January. My brother has been talking about going to visit Navy in Annapolis (MD). I am familiar with Memphis’ campus.

Last question for you. What do you feel separates you from other 2021 recruits?

My work ethic and leadership qualities. Everyone likes being around me. I try to be the first to practice and the last to leave. Whatever we do, my goal is to outwork everyone.

Brodie, it was great getting time in with you today learning more about your play on the field and recruiting process. Wishing you and yours a happy holiday season.

Thank you, sir. You too.

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Photo credit: Justin Cook; Brodie Williams in action (2020)