Interview: Explosive 3-Star 2019 Arkansas RB Kadyn Roach Talks Football and Recruiting from Nike Regional

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

Kadyn Roach has put together back-to-back explosive seasons on the field for Magnolia High School working his way as an unstoppable back out of the Natural State. During his sophomore season, he carried the rock 167 times for 1,412 yards with 13 trips into the end zone while pulling in six passes for 85 yards with another score. His junior campaign was even better toting the ball 164 times for 1,648 yards with 18 rushing touchdowns earning three-star recruiting status for his efforts. The 6-0, 203-pound, All-State talent put his abilities to the test against some of the nation’s best players over the weekend at the Nike Opening Regional in Dallas. Covering the event, I got an interview in with one of Arkansas’ best 2019 running backs.

Interview

Kadyn, you exploded onto the scene during your sophomore year with 1,412 yards scoring the rock 13 times on the ground. How did your game improve from one season to the next?

“Lots of training in the offseason, I got after it every day. I watched a lot of film to help improve my game. My vision and explosiveness was a big difference last season.”

You posted a school record of 362 yards in a game your sophomore season, is there a game during your junior year you consider your best; something along the same lines of overall production?

“I had 300 yards and two touchdowns in our last game last year against Hope.”

What did you do well in the win over Hope?

“My offensive line did the work for me in that game. They gave me holes and I went after it.”

How are you preparing for the 2018 season over the spring and summer?

“I am going back to the film looking at weakness. I am working a lot on my speed.”

Which areas of your game have taken off this offseason?

“I am stronger and faster now over last year.”

How did the Nike Opening Regional in Dallas go for you?

“It was great. I wanted to the running back MVP but hurt my shoulder during the drills. Despite that, overall it went well.”

Did you juke any linebackers out of their cleats?

(Laughs) “I got one guy.”

Any other part of your game you showcased at the camp?

“My improvement in my route running – gaining separation.”

What was your SPARQ score?

“96.81.”

Going to recruiting. Which schools are showing recruiting interest but have not offered you yet?

“Arkansas, Memphis, Missouri, Louisiana Tech, and Arkansas State are showing interest.”

Which schools have offered you?

“Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Central Arkansas, Howard, Louisiana-Monroe, and Seton Hill have offered me.”

Which schools have hosted you on unofficial visits?

“ULM (Louisiana-Monroe), Arkansas State, Louisiana Tech, Arkansas, and Memphis.”

Nice. How did the Memphis visit go?

“It was a real good visit. I met their offensive coordinator and running backs coach.”

What all did you do during that visit?

“We toured the campus and they showed us their offensive plays.”

What about Arkansas State, how did that go?

“That went real well too. I spoke with their offensive line coach and offensive coordinator. They showed me lots of love there.”

Do you have any planned visits upcoming?

“I am visiting Arkansas again in June.”

What about college camps, do you have any planned yet?

“I am planning on attending camps at Arkansas, Memphis, Louisiana Tech, and Arkansas State.”

Back to football. What do the Panthers need to do this offseason to ensure a great 2018 season?

“We need to keep working hard in the weight room and work hard in our spring practices. I think we will have a good season. We have a lot of great young guys coming up.”

Where all will we see you on the field during your senior year?

“I will be at running back and my coach told me I am playing some linebacker this season.”

Are you excited about playing linebacker?

“Yes, sir. I am.”

Last question. Is there a player at the collegiate or NFL level you watch play the game to learn more about the position?

Yes, sir. Damarea Crocket (Missouri Tigers running back), he is my cousin.”

Kadyn, thanks for your time today and congratulations on a successful Nike camp.

“Thank you.”

*Click link for Kadyn Roach’s 2017 Hudl highlight reel

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Photo credit: recruitingnewsguru.com; Kadyn Roach at the Dallas Nike Opening Regional