Interview: Impressive 3-Star 2021 Louisiana DE Byron Turner Ramping Up for 10 Recruiting Visits

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

The 2019 season was a success for Class of 2021 defensive end Byron Turner. The 6-3, 235-pound, defensive end for St. Augustine High School (New Orleans) impressed with his speed and explosiveness off the snap, his quickness in space, shedding blocks getting to the ball, and his overall strength. His play on the field has been rewarded with three-star recruiting status and 21 offers from teams spanning the SEC, Big 12, and ACC. The groundwork put in by college programs is about to payoff and Turner and family prepare for a busy offseason that intends to include as many as 10 unofficial visits.

In another RNG interview appearance, Turner goes in-depth on his offseason workouts and busy schedule along the recruiting trail this spring starting with a weekend visit to Baylor.

*Click link for Nov. 30, 2019, RNG interview with Byron Turner

Interview

Byron, your play on defense inspired fear in opposing 5A Louisiana teams, what have you been doing this offseason to push your game forward to intensify those fears in 2020?

“I’ve been in the weight room almost every day trying to get stronger. I’ve been working on my hands, my pass rush, and on shedding blocks.”

Where are you already seeing the improvements?

“With my hands and the amount of weight I have been working – I am getting stronger. I am reading linemen faster and my hands are getting quicker.”

Besides playing defensive end, are you taking on any new roles on defense or on offense in 2020?

“I have asked coach about playing linebacker, we have talked about me playing a little tight end as well.”

Last time we spoke you were in beast mode in the weight room with a 305 max on bench, 455 on squat, and 275 on power clean. Have you tested yourself on your maxes lately?

“Not since then. I just let them put the weight on the bar and I go.”

College coaches have been dropping visit invites left and right to you. From our previous interview, I know you have visited LSU, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Tulane and Florida. Do you have any planned visits coming up?

“Yes. I have a lot coming up. My first one is Sunday; I am going to Baylor. My pops and I are going to Virginia, Texas Tech, Memphis, Colorado, Georgia, Houston, Vanderbilt, Alabama, and Texas A&M.”

How many offers do you have now?

“I have 21 offers.”

Turner’s Offer Sheet (21): Alabama-Birmingham, Colorado, Florida, Kansas, Louisiana Tech, Louisville, Mississippi State, Nicholls State, South Alabama, Tennessee, Texas A&M, Toledo, Tulane, Vanderbilt, Virginia, and West Virginia

Which programs were the last few to offer?

“Baylor, they offered today (Monday), Memphis, Houston, UCF, and Texas Tech.”

Are there any schools showing interest that have not offered?

“Georgia is the new school showing interest that has not offered.”

This offseason, are you competing at any camps?

“On March 8, I think I am going to a Rivals camp.”

Byron, its always great talking football and recruiting with you. Thanks for your time today.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Turner family; Byron Turner at Florida