DITR – Freddy Beall

Freddy Beall is a 5’9″, 175 pound, class of 2024 running back for East Beauregard High School in DeRidder, Louisiana. Freddy is predominantly used as a H-back, lining up behind the right tackle and tight end and alongside the quarterback. He often is pitched the ball in an option-style of offense, running laterally until he clears the offensive line and can turn upfield. Freddy is quick on his feet and oftentimes runs off in open space for big gains. In the event that Freddy runs into traffic, he lets his lineman get ahead of him and clear holes. Freddy possesses great awareness and ballcarrier vision and is able to always find an open lane. He racked up a lot of statistics in 2022, rushing for 1,369 yards and scoring 22 total touchdowns, 19 of which were on the ground. Freddy mentioned that he models his game after Saquon Barkley – someone who is explosive, strong, and overall a complete running back. Off the field, Freddy has maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA.

Freddy participated at Gridiron’s recent camp in Eunice, Louisiana, in late February. He ran a 4.90 40-yard dash, ran a 4.63 in the shuttle drill, and jumped 8’3″ in the broad jump.

I interviewed Freddy and here’s what he had to say:

Why and at what age did you start playing football?

“I’ve been playing football for as long I can remember. It’s always been something I loved to do and always been fun.”

Have you always played your current position, or did you play a different position growing up?

“Growing up, I never really played running back. I was mainly a quarterback or a fullback, and even in my 8th grade year, I was a tight end. Having the ball in my hands is something I’ve always enjoyed.”

What sets you apart from everyone else on the field?

“I have good leadership qualities and bring a different type of energy to my team. I have always been that high-energy kid and always try to do my best at motivating my teammates.”

What is your favorite accomplishment so far in your football career?

“My favorite accomplishment was rushing for a little over 1300 yards and scoring 19 rushing touchdowns last year. I had a slow start to the season but got it done in the end and I am proud of that.”

What is your favorite memory playing football so far?

“My favorite memory playing football is the bus rides with all my friends, and the feeling of winning playoffs games.”

How do you balance athletics and academics?

“I always make sure school work comes before my athletics and making sure that I keep the grades I have by studying and doing all my homework.”

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced on the field?

“The biggest challenge I have faced is probably battling injuries and doing whatever it takes to stay healthy for the whole season so I can help my team win games.”

How do you stay physically fit outside of football?

“I play basketball and baseball, and I workout during the summer when I can.”

What are you hoping to achieve in this upcoming season?

“My goal and my team’s goal is to win district and go to playoffs. I would also like to rush for 1400 yards and get 25 touchdowns this year.”

What is your end goal for your football career?

“I would like to go to college and play football, but the end goal is to make memories and have fun.”

What is the most important lesson you’ve learned playing football?

“Not to ever really take anything so serious and to let go and have fun sometimes. “

How do you prepare for big games?

“I normally just listen to music and try to focus in and go through the game plan one last time.”

What type of play style do you have?

“I feel as if I play aggressive and hungry to beat the guy in front of me every play.”

Lastly, who is the biggest role model in your life?

“My role model is my mom. She’s always been there and never misses a game. She shows me what it’s like to be strong-minded and not let anything bother you.”