Louisiana Football: Interview with Huntington 2021 QB J’rell Joseph
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
The Huntington High School football program is on an upward trend as the Raiders won three more games in 2019 than 2018 and finishing the season 5-6. The Shreveport area squad also reached the state playoffs but unfortunately lost to Belle Chasse in the first round (28-14). One of the reasons for the excitement around the team last year and also going into the 2020 season is the play of quarterback J’rell Joseph.
Joseph had a monstrous junior campaign in 2019 throwing for 2,254 yards with 22 touchdowns and just five interceptions while also rushing for 291 yards. After the season, the Huntington star won numerous individual honors including first team All-District.
This 6’1”, 180-pound, play-maker possess a strong arm to make throws all over the field and a high football IQ. Joseph has the ability to make plays on the ground by escaping pressure in the pocket.
This class of 2021 is currently receiving interest from several in-state college programs and is looking to put up even bigger numbers in 2020 to make his recruiting process explode. Joseph is not only a leader on the football team but also in the classroom where he holds a 3.2 GPA.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I caught up with the Huntington gunslinger to discuss his career at Huntington and get an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
J’rell, how would you grade your individual performance in your junior season and why?
“B-plus. I did a lot of big things but there’s a lot of things I can always improve on.”
What was your most memorable moment last year?
“During the BTW game I tied the game rushing in a two-point conversion then we went on to win by a safety.”
What are your strengths on the football field?
“I can make just about any throw on the field and I’m a little shifty too.”
Did you receive any individual honors?
“First team All-District, Offensive MVP, first team All-City, and second team All-State.”
What kind of challenges did you face last season?
“Overcoming bad plays I made.”
How did you overcome these bad plays?
“I made a better play and realized that in football there is always another chance for improvement.”
What is your practice schedule during the offseason?
“I’m constantly working every day to get better.”
What are you working on the most?
“My footwork.”
Would you consider yourself a dual-threat quarterback or more pro-style?
“Definitely pro-style, because I don’t run that much. Most of the time I only run when I need too.”
Are there any schools showing you interest at this time?
“Northwestern State and Louisiana Tech.”
Have you been on any college visits?
“I’ve visited Northwestern State, Louisiana-Lafayette and Louisiana Tech.”
Have you been to any college camps?
“Yes, an East Texas Baptist University mega camp.”
What did you like about that camp?
“There were a lot of coaches and lots of competition going on out there.”
Do you have any pregame rituals?
“Before every game I sit and thank God that I’m able to play the game of football then I turn up with my music and get game ready.”
What is your fastest 40-yard dash time?
“4.9.”
Do you play any other sports in high school?
“I played basketball my freshman year and will play again in my senior year.”
What is your favorite subject in school and why?
“Math, because there are many different ways to figure out an answer to one problem.”
What is your GPA?
“3.2.”
What do you like most about playing at Huntington High School?
“Our coaches are great, they really show their love for us, and the students are very supportive.”
Do you have a favorite quote or Bible verse?
“Psalm 118:6 – the Lord is with me, I will not be afraid.”
Thank you for your time and good luck in your senior season.
“Thank you, sir.”
Photo credit: twitter.com; Huntington QB J’rell Joseph makes a play against Benton
Photo credit: twitter.com; Huntington QB J’rell Joseph during his visit at Northwestern State