One to Watch: 2019 California WR/CB Melquan Stovall Showed Beginnings of Future Potential
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @HogManInLA
There is a lot of football left to be played for Melquan Stovall, but if his freshman season, all on the varsity level is any indication, we can expect big things from the 2019 recruit.
Stovall played all over the field for Paraclete High School (Lancaster, CA) during the 2015 season. The 5’9”, 168 pound, athlete logged time at running back and wide receiver on offense and at cornerback on defense. His stats, as compared to experienced juniors and seniors two to four years his elder, were not in the same ballpark but his production does show a lot of promise. On defense he clocked 25 tackles, 12 solo, and on offense he had 207 yards rushing off 23 carries with one score.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I got a few minutes with Stovall to get his thoughts on his freshman season, got an update on his offseason workouts, and covered his upcoming camp circuit plans.
Interview
Melquan, you had a very nice freshman season playing at the varsity level. Were all do you think you will play next season?
“I’ll play some running back, slot receiver, and cornerback, maybe some at safety and on special teams as a punt and kick returner.”
What are your strengths on the field at cornerback?
“I’m a big hitter. I can cover in my zone and I’m a shutdown corner.”
What about at running back? What are your strengths there?
“I’m really good at reading my blocks. I’m getting more explosive and getting better at using my speed.”
Which game was your best game last season?
“My best game was against Azusa (first round playoff game, won 49-0). I had over 80 yards off four carries.”
Are you getting excited already for the 2016 season?
“Yes. I’m getting excited about being out on the field, being a team player, and being the best player that I can be this year.”
What are you working on in your offseason workouts?
“I’m really just training a lot, doing a lot of push-ups and sit-ups. I’m trying to get bigger, faster, and get my footwork up.”
What camps are you planning on attending during the offseason?
“I’m planning on going to the Nike Opening regional in Oakland and more than likely to a Cal camp in June.”
Are you participating in any spring sports for Paraclete?
“I’m running track.”
Which events?
“The 100, 200, 4×1, 4×4, and long jump.”
Wow, that’s a lot. Have you been timed in the 100 or 200 yet?
“No, we’ve just been practicing so far.”
What time are you trying to hit in the 100 this year?
“10.4.”
If you hit a 10.4 in the 100 this year you should hang up your football cleats for track spikes. That’s world class speed. Are you playing with any 7×7 teams?
“Yes. I’m playing with Team Pass. We had our first tournament in Las Vegas – the Pylon Tournament.”
How did you guys do?
“We did okay. We came out a little sluggish. We went 2-4 but we’ll get better. One of the teams we lost to was Bishop Gorman.”
A lot of teams lose to Bishop Gorman.
“Yeah.”
Which positions are you playing with your 7×7 team?
“Cornerback, wide receiver, and a little bit at running back.”
What is your current GPA?
“I have a 3.5.”
That’s great. Keep it up.
“Thank you.”
What is your favorite subject?
“English.”
Final question. What is your favorite part of playing football?
“I’ve been playing football since I was 6-years-old. I like playing on both sides of the ball, getting to hit, and showcase my talents.”
Melquan, thanks for your time today and good luck with your 7×7 tournaments and upcoming camps.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: ink361.com; No. 33 Melquan Stovall on the field.
Photo credit: twitter.com; No. 33 Melquan Stovall gets the tackle.