Interview: A Smooth 2020 Corner/Athlete, Kamari Ross Picked Off Seven in 2018
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The exceptional ones make the game look easy. In any sport, watching an outstanding athlete apply their trade in competition is a joy to watch. One never knows when the next big play will happen, but we all know one is coming. That is how fans of Beaumont High School felt about watching their rising Class of 2020 star corner/athlete Kamari Ross in 2018.
One of the best things one can say about a corner when talking about their movements on the field is fluid… that is Ross. The 5-10, 165-pound, defender has speed to burn but his footwork is above his grade level and he has an uncanny knack for the game. His junior season was stamped with first team All-Mountain Pass League honors, league Defensive MVP honors, and All-CIF recognition after putting an end to 29 plays, 28 solo, knocked away five passes, picked up to fumbles, and swiped seven passes. Adding to his athletic resume, Ross doubled on offense rushing 23 times for 127 yards and hauled in 16 passes for 285 yards with two scores going up on the board.
With interest coming in from Mississippi State and New Mexico, I sat down with Ross doing my best to cover the speedster going over ground in 2018 and his offseason workouts.
Interview
My first question, Kamari. Are you allowed back in Hemet (CA) after what you did to Tahquitz in 2018 picking off three passes?
(Laughs) “Yeah, I am allowed back there.”
Kamari, you were not kind to opposing Mountain Pass League quarterbacks last season, some of them may even say you were downright mean. How many passes did you pick off last season?
“I had seven interceptions.”
You obviously have great speed, but what was the secret to your success taking away so many passes in 2018?
“Mainly baiting the QB making him think I was where I wasn’t and jumping the pass.”
With your speed, and you have a lot of it, what is the fastest time you’ve put down?
“My fastest 40 was at a Rivals camp last summer. I ran a 4.61.”
Your game speed looks even faster. What type of coverages do you feel comfortable executing on defense?
“Cover 1 and Cover 3, those are my favorites.”
Which areas of your game do you feel grew the most last season?
“My instincts grew a lot. My route recognition and my eye discipline got better. I got better at shedding blocks and filling the outside lanes.”
What are you working on this offseason?
“This offseason I am working on getting out of my backpedal quicker, reading the quarterback’s eyes better, and flipping my hips opening up and running.”
Are we going to see you playing multiple positions again during your senior year?
“Yes. I might play some free safety next year. On offense, I am playing slot, lining up in the Wildcat, and at running back.”
We’ve talked a lot about your game on offense, what do you feel are the strengths to your game on offense?
“My strengths on offense are my elusiveness – by far, and my ball vision. I can see where I am going and who holes and lanes are going to open up to make things happen.”
You play 7v7 ball with Rharebreed, how is that helping take your game to the next level?
“It has made me become a next level guy. I am getting that dog inside me. That is how they are helping. They are definitely helping me become a better player.”
Playing 7v7 helps all players get competitive exposure to players from other classifications and other states and/or areas. What has you excited about getting to showcase your skills against some of the best of the best this spring?
“When some top receivers see my height, they don’t know about my footwork or aggressiveness. I like being underrated. I like shocking everyone. I’m ready to do that this spring against everyone.”
Are you going to any national camps and/or combines this offseason?
“I am planning on attending the Nike Opening in Los Angeles.”
Other than football, do you play any other varsity sports for Beaumont?
“Yes. I play basketball and I run track.”
Which events?
“The 110-meter hurdles and the 300.”
I am even more impressed. Kamari, it was great talking to you today learning more about your game. Thanks for your time.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Craig and Jessica Woodward Photography; No. 4 Kamari Ross
Photo credit: Timmy Hilliard; No. 4 Kamari Ross in action