Rising Star, RB/LB Arayvis Davenport, T.O. Rusheon (Bossier, Louisiana)

Arayvis Davenport is a bruising running back out of T.O. Rusheon in Bossier, Louisiana. The 6’1, 181 lb athletic specimen is a mix of Derek Henry and Alvin Kamara. He can run you over while also having amazing ability to go up and get the ball. This was evident as Arayvis scored 2 touchdowns through the air on only 2 catches for 156 yards during the 2023 Junior High Gridiron Bowl. His breakaway speed was also on display as Arayvis broke off a 43 yard touchdown run on the second play of the game. He finished the game with 3 all purpose touchdowns and 201 all purpose yards, along with 4.5 tackles and a forced fumble on the defensive side of the ball. These amazing stats earned him Offensive MVP for the 2023 Junior High Gridiron Bowl. The class of 2028 athlete is more than his stats show. He has an astounding 3.5 GPA, and an attitude that nothing in life can bring him down. This season he put up impressive stats of 20 total touchdowns and over 1,000 all purpose yards. I recently interviewed Arayvis which you can find below.

When did you know football was for you?

The first game I played in. The first play was an outside handoff to me. I broke every tackle and ended up taking it to the house.

Do you play any other sports?

I have played basketball my whole life.

If you had to choose one, which side of the ball would you play?

I would say offense. There is a lot of detail in defense, especially on the high school level, and I feel like I can play running back more naturally.

What is your dream college for football?

I love LSU.

Who is your favorite player?

Travis Hunter, he plays both sides of the ball and dominates them.

What is your favorite personal highlight?

It was this year actually. We ran a fake punt and I ended up breaking it off for a touchdown. I think I trucked like 4 kids on that play.

What is your favorite historical play in the NFL?

Thats a hard one, but I would have to say Mahomes side-arm throw while he was falling in the super bowl.

Which position is harder to play, running back or linebacker?

Going into high school, I keep being told how important being a running back is, and especially if I am able to start as a freshman. I gotta be prepared mentally and physically.

Who do you model your game after?

DK Metcalf

Do you have any game day rituals?

I wouldn’t say it’s a ritual, but my father always instilled this in me. Before every game I try to eat healthy like apples and bananas, as well as listen to some gospel music pregame.

Anything about your game that stands out?

Even when losing, I keep a positive mindset and don’t let it distract me. We can be down by 6 touchdowns and I am still going to be playing just as hard with the expectation to win.