Interview: 3-Star 2022 CB Eric Hemphill III Making Texas 5A Squads Pay
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
After a breakout sophomore season that included 50 tackles and five interceptions, Eric Hemphill III found his junior campaign a little lonely on the island. As teams lined up against Brenham, the brave tried Hemphill but quickly backed off leading to a 30-tackle season with 20 passes broken up and one pick-six. As the highlight reel for the three-star recruit against 5A Texas squads makes the collegiate rounds, the 5-11, 180-pound, corner has had three offers put in his hands with interest coming from in-state powers.
In an RNG update interview, Hemphill covers ground on his junior year on the field with a look into the early part of his offseason workouts.
*Click the link for the Aug. 2020 RNG interview with Eric Hemphill
Interview
Eric, after picking off five passes during the 2019 campaign, how did offenses treat you during your junior season?
There were a lot of quiet games. I had to affect the game in other ways getting down and dirty. In some games, teams were testing me but by the end of the game they stayed away.
Playing corner for the Cubs, what were some of the coverages you were executing in the scheme?
Cover 2, a lot of corner in the flats and a safety over the top. We did some man too. Our coach improvises on each down. We go however we feel depending on the team.
How did your technique and fundamentals improve throughout the season?
My coach helped me out a lot working on my footwork, my footwork pressing, and being more hands on. My trainer helped me a lot too. Overall, my technique got better throughout the season.
Early into your offseason, what are some of the workouts you’ve been doing to add more speed and agility to what you bring to the field?
A lot of power clean, squats, one leg squats, box jumps, reverse lunges, and benching. Our strength and conditioning coach is great. We are also going outside and pushing the sled.
Are you running track this year?
Yes, sir. I am running track.
Which events?
The 4×1, 4×2, and 400.
Back to your play on the gridiron; what have you been focusing on with your technique this offseason?
Mainly being more physical and more hands on. I have everything down pat. I am always working on my feet, striking more, and being more physical.
You got a couple of snaps in on offense in 2020, will your role expand on that side of the ball in 2021?
I am hoping so. Our leading receiver is leaving. I am hoping I can make an impact this year on offense. I am hoping I can help out.
Are you playing 7v7 this winter?
Yes, sir. I am playing with Fast Houston.
Which positions are you playing with Fast Houston?
Anything my coach wants me to play. I have been playing nickel, some in the middle, some on the outside, and some at safety. I am moving around the secondary.
How is the 7v7 season going so far?
We’ve only played in two tournaments. We did alright in the first one, and in the second one we were about to win but it was stopped because of the weather.
Are you going to any camps coming up?
I am not sure yet which camps I may go to. I am planning on going to some college camps. SPE invited me to one of their camps. It all depends on the invites I get and with COVID.
Let’s talk some recruiting. Which programs are showing interest?
TCU and SMU.
How many offers are you holding now?
I have three; Illinois State, Kansas, and Memphis.
When the campuses open back up, are there any visits you’d like to take?
Yes. I’d like to visit Memphis, Kansas, TCU, and SMU, there are a lot of schools that I’d like to go see. All the schools that offer me.
Eric, thanks for your time today. Wishing you success with your 7v7 and upcoming track season.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Hemphill family; Eric Hemphill