Preseason Interview with Speedy 4-Star 2021 Louisiana ATH Ahmonte Watkins

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

To be familiar with Ahmonte Watkins and his game is to be impressed with his heart, desire, and competitive spirit. Watkins was part of a tough 3-7 season with Riverside Academy during the 2018 season, but the hard times did not diminish his will to win. When the losses started piling up for the Rebels, instead of giving up on his sophomore campaign he turned the year into a showcase season, but not for his own gain but by trying to post victories on the board. Watkins (5-10, 173) shinned on defense coming up with five takeaways earning first team All-District honors. After two preseason injuries depleted the Rebels’ depth chart at running back, he stepped up to the plate using his 4.4 speed to make plays. It is tough to get college coaches to scout players on losing teams, but Watkins’ skills proved to be too much for scouts to overlook earning five Division-I scholarships.

In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with the rising four-star Louisiana recruit covering his play on the field and offseason workouts with an update on his recruiting prospects.

Interview

Ahmonte, I have to start off wondering how many quarterbacks and offensive coordinators out there in Louisiana do not like you. How many total takeaways did you have last season?

(chuckles) “I had five takeaways last season. I’m not sure how many of them don’t like me.”

If they don’t dislike you, I am sure they fear you. What was your trick getting all of those turnovers?

“I was playing off the quarterback’s shoulder.”

When the 2018 season had ended, what did you feel were the strengths to your overall game on defense?

“I was focused on how to read the quarterback. Having confidence in my teammates especially against the run helped me; I didn’t get too banged up for offense.”

What about on offense?

“The first two players on the depth chart were hurt before our scrimmage. That’s when they put me back there. I got three or four touchdowns in our scrimmage; that got everything going. I had a senior help me learn the steps; he led me through my sophomore season.”

No matter what you are doing on the field, your speed shows out. How fast are you?

“In the 100, my fastest time is 10.44. In the 40, my fastest is 4.40.”

Impressive. What have you worked on this offseason to push your talents to the next level as a defender?

“I have not worked that much on defense. I have focused on my speed and agility.”

Same question, but on offense.

“I have been working on my lateral movement, protecting the ball, and my jump cuts.”

Did you go to any college camps this summer?

“Yes. I went to Mississippi State, Alabama, and Virginia.”

Of the camps, which was your best performance?

“It was the Virginia camp. That is where I ran a 4.49.”

Which position did you compete at with the camps?

“I competed at running back.”

Which schools are showing interest heading into the season?

“Mississippi State and Alabama are showing interest. There are a lot of schools showing interest that I am unsure of (dead period).”

How many offers do you have?

“I have five offers.”

Watkins’ Offer Sheet: Colorado, Nicholls State, Miami, Southern Miss, and Virginia

Did you visit any schools this offseason?

“I visited all the schools that I camped at.”

How did the Alabama visit go?

“It was good. I got to talk to Coach (Nick) Saban (head coach). I got some feedback on stuff to work on this season.”

And MSU, how did that go?

“It was the same as Alabama. They had stuff for me to work on, and they told me they are looking forward to my junior season.”

Are you planning any more visits?

“I will try to squeeze them in this season, but we have 10 straight games. I might go to North Carolina or Virginia if possible.”

Turning to the season. How are the Rebels looking overall in fall camp?

“We are looking more like a team this year than last year. We have a lot of young players and fresh talent.”

What will be the strengths of the team this season?

“Our skill positions.”

When the season is over, what goals will you have accomplished?

“My goal is to get over 1,000 yards rushing and to take two kicks back for touchdowns.”

Ahmonte, it was fun learning more about you and your game today. I appreciate your time and wish you success this season.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Watkins family; Ahmonte Watkins at Mississippi State and Virginia