Interview: 3-Star 2022 Arkansas RB James Jointer Ready to Impress at SEC Camps
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Size, speed, and strength – Class of 2022 running back James Jointer seemingly has it all. The 6-0, 200-pound, back has developed his natural giftings into a one-cut and gone play-maker who can power through arm tackles with his legs and stiff-arm jokers into the turf. A knee injury limited his overall production during his sophomore season, but the shades of a complete back coming into picture were developing becoming a weapon out of the backfield on passing downs.
The three-star recruit Little Rock Parkview High School standout has impressed enough to date to earn seven D-I scholarships, including in-state power Arkansas, with top programs throughout the region ready to see him in action in 2020.
In an RNG catch-up interview, Jointer updates us on his offseason workouts, recruiting, and planned summer college camp circuit.
Interview
James, the work put in on the field during the 2019 season showed more of your developing breakaway speed and strength. What other aspects of your game were popping for you last season?
“My vision and cutting got better.”
The offensive coordinator was utilizing your speed in different ways, especially to the outside on tosses and pitches. What were some of the other ways the staff was getting the rock into your hands last year?
“On screens; passing the ball was the other way they were getting the ball in my hands.”
How do you feel your overall game improved last year as a running back?
“I can’t say really, because I didn’t get the full season. I matured being around the game. Watching high school practices and games, and watching film, my football IQ got better.”
You also got some time in on defense at safety. How did that part of the season go for you?
“Good. I like playing safety. Some schools ask if I will play safety in college. I like that they know I can play both sides of the ball and see my athleticism, and also see me being able to play free safety.”
When the 2020 season gets going, where all will we see you on the field?
“Running back, free safety, and I might play some slot receiver this year.”
Since the season ended what have you been working on with your game?
“My legs. Because of my ACL, I am making sure it is strong. I am putting on muscle, preparing my body, and armoring up so I do not have to worry about this again. Also, I have been watching a lot of film to make up for not being able to do field work; reading defenses and all that.”
What has been your daily workout routine this spring?
“I have a gym that I have access to through a friend of the family. We do different stuff every day; bench, dead lift, squats, run hills, stretching, and a lot of conditioning.”
This summer, are there any college camps you may attend?
“I’ve been talking to my coach about this. I know I will go to some SEC camps. I might go to Tennessee this summer and maybe Auburn and Texas A&M.”
Which schools are showing interest but have not offered yet?
“Michigan State, Florida State, Tennessee, and Penn State are the main ones right now showing interest.”
How many offers have been dropped?
“Seven.”
Jointer’s Offer Sheet: Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana Tech, Memphis, Missouri, North Texas, and Texas-San Antonio
Going back a few months, did you get to visit any schools?
“I went to Arkansas’ Junior Day; their first one with the new staff. They re-offered me then.”
Nice. How did that visit with the new staff go?
“It was good. I got a chance to meet the new staff. It was nice. They are on a mission, for sure, to make the program good again. They stay close with the guys who are from Arkansas.”
Are there any planned visits coming up?
“I plan on visiting Tennessee, that might be the main one, and Texas A&M and maybe North Texas.”
Last question. What have you been doing to break up the all the downtime during the quarantine for fun?
“Playing video games a little bit, working out, and that is pretty much it. I have been on FaceTime more not being able to see friends.”
Understood. James, it was great catching up with you today. I appreciate your time and wish you continued success preparing this spring for your junior run.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Jointer family; James Jointer at Arkansas (middle) and 2019 preseason