Interview: Highly Productive 4-Star 2022 Alabama LB TJ Dudley Updates Season and Recruiting
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
On the Montgomery Catholic Preparatory defense, there is a flurry of activity on the defensive side of the ball as a unit. The Knights are 12-0 dominating 4A Alabama foes with a defense that has allowed only 119 points all season. In the stats posted through the first 11 games, one can point to one of the reasons why the Knights’ defense dictates the action on the field – Class of 2022 linebacker Theron “TJ” Dudley.
Dudley’s mix with the Knights’ defense has been an instant success. Beyond the win-loss column, their 6-2, 208-pound, standout has put an end to 96 plays with 65 solo stops, 18 tackles for a loss, 7.5 sacks, has forced two fumbles, picked up one, and batted away two passes.
The play on the field has helped Catholic advance to the third round of the playoffs after defeating Handley 9-6 on Friday night with a showdown on Nov. 22 awaiting against UMS-Wright Prep. The other byproduct of all the big hits and plays, four-star recruiting status and nine offers dropped.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with one of Alabama’s top rising linebacker recruits for insight on what makes him such an explosive talent on the gridiron.
Interview
TJ, the Knights have taken care of business all season. What has made the team so good this year and on both sides of the ball?
“The leaders we have. Everyone is leading and we have great communication. Everyone is asking questions so no one is confused. Everyone knows their role on the field.”
On defense, what scheme are you running and what are the strengths to that unit?
“We run a 4-3. Aggressiveness is our strengths. Everyone is aggressive. We talk and communicate. That helps out everyone, including the young guys and the guys just starting.”
What is your role within the defense as an outside backer?
“My role is filling a gap most often, stuffing the run, and making sure nothing gets through the inside.”
Let’s talk about your talents at running back. Two carries ending in two touchdowns. Tell me about that.
(Laughs) “I played running back all my life until I got to Catholic, then I moved to linebacker. It is fun. I miss running the ball. I like being at running back in the short-yardage package pounding it in.”
This season, which has been your best game?
“The first game of the season against Tallassee (AL). I finished with 17 tackles, two sacks, and three tackles for a loss.”
In which ways has your game grown this season?
“It has grown by being more aggressive. At first, I was running around the field being an athlete making plays. Now I am reading my keys and playing football as a mature player.”
Which schools are showing interest but have not offered yet?
“Alabama, Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Nebraska are showing interest. My coach does not tell me everything, so I don’t know all of them. He does not want me to get a big head.”
How many offers are you holding?
“Nine.”
Dudley’s Offer Sheet: Alabama-Birmingham, Auburn, Central Michigan, Florida Atlantic, Georgia Tech, Houston, Illinois, Indiana, and Mississippi State
Awesome. Do you have any planned visits coming up?
“Yes, sir. I am planning on visiting Alabama, Auburn, and LSU for sure.”
Are you taking those this winter or in the spring?
“In the spring for Alabama and Auburn. I might go to LSU this winter.”
TJ, thanks for your time today and good luck throughout the playoffs.
“Thank you.”
Photo credits: Montgomery Catholic Preparatory/Dudley family; No. 6 TJ Dudley