Texas Football: Interview with Katy State Champion Senior RB Jalen Davis
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Jalen Davis capped off a successful career at Katy High School by helping lead the Tigers to a state championship in his senior season. During the 2020 season, Davis rushed for 1,518 yards and 25 touchdowns while also mentoring his younger brother, Seth, who joined him in the backfield.
This 5’10”, 190-pound, power back plays with great explosiveness and intensity while also possessing great strength, speed, and vision. Davis compares himself to the style and play of Indianapolis Colt running back Jonathan Taylor and has a fastest 40-yard dash time of 4.50.
This Class of 2021 recruit currently has several college offers including Arkansas Tech and Stephen F. Austin and is also drawing interest from San Jose State. Davis has a current 2.8 GPA and scored 1330 on his SAT and wants to leave a legacy of being very coachable and unselfish as his high school football career has come to an end.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I sat down with Jalen to talk about his state championship senior season and get an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Jalen, what does it mean to you to win a state championship?
It means everything because it’s what we’ve been working on since my freshman year. All our work paid off.
What is it like playing in the same backfield as your younger brother?
It’s a blessing because not many have that opportunity. It pushes me to set a good example and show how things should be done and it helps him be more confident.
How would you grade your performance during your senior season?
I’d give myself an eight or nine out of 10 after I missed one game due to a strained hamstring. I felt like I left it all out there and I fulfilled all of my responsibilities.
What would you say was your best game and why?
Cinco Ranch; I scored three touchdowns and everything was in sync. In the Tompkins game, we were down and I put my team on my back.
Did you receive any individual honors?
We’re having a banquet next week to announce honors but I was nominated to play in the Blue-Grey All-American Game.
How would you describe what kind of running back you are?
I’m very explosive and can make the holes. I have a lot of speed to outrun defenders.
What is your fastest 40-yard dash time?
4.50.
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
Jonathan Taylor. I’ve been watching him since he was at Wisconsin. Katy bases their offense on Wisconsin. I try to resemble his play.
What did you like most about playing at Katy High School?
The bond with my teammates, we all had the same goal. Our bond was broken between the coaches and teammates.
What do you want your legacy to be at Katy?
I gave it all on the field. I was very coachable and did everything I was asked. My coaches trusted me.
Do you have any college offers?
Yes: Arkansas Tech, East Central Baptist Oklahoma, Stephen F. Austin, Tyler Junior College, and Texas-Permian Basin.
What other schools are showing interest in you that haven’t offered?
San Jose State, Jackson State and Eastern Illinois.
How do you face the challenges in recruiting due to COVID-19?
Just stay focused and believe God has a plan.
What is your GPA?
2.8.
What was your SAT score?
1330 SAT.
Do you have a favorite quote or Bible verse?
Galatians 6:9.
Photo credit: Katy Times; Katy RB Jalen Davis