Interview: Upside in 2021 California WR Kevin Barnes is Next Level

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

After years of developing his game on the hardwood, a freshman season on the gridiron as a ‘let’s see’ is now turning into what could be a very promising high school and collegiate career for Kevin Barnes Jr. on the field. Thanks to basketball, Barnes has the speed and quickness in space and has developed his hands where hauling in passes are second nature. Given his raw athleticism coupled with his enthusiasm for learning the nuances of the game and technique as a receiver, the sky appears to be the only limit for the 6-5, 175-pound, Rancho Verde High School target.

In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with the relatively unknown California product, that is unknown until the 2019 season kicks off, to see how this promising talent is developing his game in the offseason preparing for a breakout junior campaign.

Interview

Kevin, every year in sports, and at all levels, is an opportunity to learn and grow as a player. What were some of the key aspects of the game you learned during your sophomore year between varsity and JV ball that have helped you develop during the offseason?

“I learned to be more aggressive and not be as hesitant. That has helped me this offseason. I learned more about the game overall; a lot that I did not realize goes into the game. I have been studying myself to improve for this season.”

I am guessing corners hate seeing you come to their side of the field due to your height advantage. Beyond being a big target, what are some of the other strengths of your game that allow you to dominate?

“As you mentioned, my height is a strength and my ability to explode. I am really fast and I have good quickness – that is a big part of my game abilities. I high-point the ball – I go get it.”

What have you been working on with your game going into your junior year?

“I have been working on my footwork. Even though I am explosive, I have worked on being even more explosive. I have worked on my hand-eye coordination and my hands. I have worked to improve my stamina and my speed.”

Are you adding any new responsibilities to your role in 2019?

“No, I will strictly be at receiver this season.”

What was spring ball with the Mustangs like this year?

“It has gone well. I have learned more things to work on to become a better player. It has been really good for me to see what I need to work even harder on before the season begins.”

How is the team coming together ahead of the 2019?

“We are looking good. We are working on overall strength right now in the weight room. We have a lot of explosive players, we are getting ready.”

Did you play 7v7 with a travel team this spring?

“I did. I played with E-Battle.”

How did those extra reps push you forward?

“I learned even more about myself and the game. I learned that I have to be more aggressive. It helped me with my route running and understanding coverages.”

Have you competed at any camps this summer?

“Yes. I went to a USC camp and a Redlands camp with Washington State and Utah.”

How did the Redlands camp performances go for you?

“They went well. The work I put into my footwork, it all came together at the camps. I did really well. They saw my speed and explosiveness off the line. Being tall, they did not expect that from me. That caught the coaches’ eyes. My catching was really good at those camps.”

Have you started drawing any interest yet?

“Yes. I am receiving interest from Washington State.”

Nice. Have you taken any unofficial visits?

“Yes. I went to Arizona State.”

What did you think of the ASU trip?

“I thought it went well. They showed me around. They showed me their weightlifting room, field, and player’s lounge. It felt good there. It felt comfortable.”

What other sports do you play?

“I play basketball.”

How did this season on the hardwood go?

“It went well. I feel like I could have done better.”

Back to football. Kevin, you have come a long way in such a short time on the field. What are your thoughts on where you’ve come from to this point with your football career in high school?

“I have only been playing football for a year-and-a-half. I am competing against the top defensive backs in the country and in the state. All the work I have been putting in has been paying off.”

Kevin, thanks for your time today. Good luck with the rest of your offseason workouts.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Barnes family; Kevin Barnes