Arkansas linebacker pledge Josh Paul may be somewhat of a hidden gem, but his production over the past two years makes him like a fascinating prospect.
Paul (6-2, 215 pounds) had more than 150 tackles in that span, including 73 with five sacks as a senior when his team, New Orleans De Le Salle, went 13-1.
The lone loss was a 34-14 semifinal one to Baptist Parkview in the state semifinals.
“My high school career was legendary, and me and my brothers left a legacy and set a bar that future (players) have to accomplish even more,” Paul said.
Paul, who chose Arkansas over Ole Miss, Mississippi State and others, was named the Class 3A Defensive Player of the Year and MaxPreps second-team medium school all-American.
He was also named the (New Orleans) Times Picayune all-metro small schools defensive player of the year.
“I thought I played pretty well this season,” Paul said.
Paul said he was surprised to hear the news of defensive coordinator Robb Smith leaving the Razorbacks for Minnesota, but had no other thoughts about it.
“I don’t really know what he is leaving, but I am sure it’s for a good reason and the best thing for him," Paul said.