Dedrick Welch is a speedy and explosive running back for the Liberty Magnet Patriots, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Welch takes the term speedy and explosive to another level, for Welch has continued to find his way into the end zone this year for the Patriots. Welch is a 5’8, 160-pound running back that uses his size to maneuver through defenders and explode through the defense, which has led Welch to the end zone many times this year. Dedrick first started seeing the field for the Patriots in 2021, which was Dedrick’s freshman year of high school. Dedrick was able to play both sides of the ball for the Patriots and have success on both sides. Since playing in his freshman year, Dedrick has now entered his Senior season with motivation to put his skills on display for the state of Louisiana. Welch now has 12 rushing touchdowns on the season, rushing 755 yards through 6 games. Welch proves to be a hard worker for the Patriots and a reliable asset on the field.
What created your love for the game?
“I’d say my activeness as a child created my love for the game. Being outside a lot as a child, playing or working with a football, basketball, or any type of ball opened my eyes as far as sports.
What is your dream college to play at?
“I would be grateful to play for any school one, but as far as my dream schools I’d say LSU or Georgia Tech.”
What would you say your biggest strengths on the field are?
“I think my quickness is my biggest strength. My ability to maneuver and manipulate defenders through the box and get in and out of cuts separates me.”
Which NFL player would you relate your style of play to?
” I watch many guys like Le’Veon Bell, Alvin Kamara, and LeSean McCoy. But I’d say I try to model my game after Barry Sanders.”
What has been your biggest improvements over the last couple of years?
“During the last couple years I’d say I was a bit impatient, and I would try to force things that weren’t there. So my biggest improvement I’d say has been my patience with letting blocks develop.”
How has the recruiting process been for you as a player?
“The recruitment process has been slow as I have been dealing with injuries the past couple years. But I think with the year I’m having, if stay consistent and keep having good games things will fall in place. I have been talking to a couple schools up north though.”
What are some self goals you have as a player?
“I want to get 1500 yards, 20+ Touchdowns, All-District, and All-State.”
What are some goals you have for your team this year?
“Ever since summer our coaches have been reiterating to us that we don’t want to only win games, we want to be in and win in the Superdome. So I’ve been reminding my teammates to stay humble and to keep working.”
How has your coaches helped you become a better player?
“They have been helping me become a more physical player and also with blocking.”