RECRUITING: The Next Step

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Mansfield (La.) defensive tackle Chris Davenport has prep career in the past; looking ahead to LSU

by Daniel Mingea III
Tiger Rag Recruiting Analyst

CLICK HERE to read Mingea’s recruiting blog at NOLA.com.

Louisiana was represented well on Saturday afternoon for the U.S Army All-American game as four of its participants reigned from the Bayou State.

One of which was Mansfield High School product Chris Davenport (6-4, 300). Although Davenport missed much of his senior season due to a knee injury, he was at 100-percent heading into Saturday’s contest.

“It was a fun experience,” Davenport expressed. “I was just glad to get away from home and see something new. I think the competition level at the game was more than I expected it to be. Everyone was playing at a higher level and I guess you could say that was like my first college game.

“Overall I think I did pretty good,” Davenport added. “Now I know I just have to be ready to come in and work hard everyday.”

Outside of the level of competition, the five-Star defensive lineman encountered another surprise as Cass Technical High School product William Campbell committed to Michigan during the game after many labeled him as an LSU lock.

“I figured he would be coming to LSU,” Davenport claimed. “In the end though I guess he felt he made the best decision for himself. I was happy for him. As long as he does the right things on and off of the field he has the chance to make something out of himself. And so I can’t be mad at him for that.”

There was a rumor at the game of another commitment. This one coming from West Monroe High School product Barkevious Mingo and the Texas Longhorns. Davenport made it a point to put the rumor to rest.

“I know some people were saying Barkevious Mingo committed to Texas,” Davenport explained. “That’s not true at all. He hasn’t committed anywhere and I just wanted to get that straight for the media.”

There was also another rumor floating around that Rueben Randle and Mingo are two of the more quieter recruits. Davenport discredited that statement as well.

“Around me they weren’t quiet and that’s all I’m going to say about that,” Davenport exclaimed while laughing. “I’d love to play with both of those guys though. Mingo is a big-time linebacker and Rueben is a big-time receiver. I think they could both help the Tigers win.”

Note: Davenport will be participating in his final high school game this Saturday at St. Thomas More High School in Lafayette at 1:00 p.m. for the Sportsman Paradise Bowl.