Alabama DB Justin Parks picks Arkansas State
Heading into the quarantine around mid March, Gardendale (Ala.) defensive back Justin Parks was a heavy lean towards Memphis. The Tigers stayed in this race, and they were among the finalists, but over the last few months, Arkansas State made a big move and on Monday, the Red Wolves landed a commitment from Parks.
"It came down to Memphis, Appalachian State, Florida Atlantic and Arkansas State, but I felt Arkansas State was the best school for me," said Parks. "I took a visit to Arkansas State right before things shut down and that really helped with my decision.
"At first, it was all Memphis, but I started talking more to my parents, I thought about things a lot and I realized Arkansas State was best for me in football and after football. Their academics are strong, I will be able to study abroad in Europe and I know it can really set me up.
"Their academics, the support system, how genuine the coaches are there and that family feel really put them on top of my list."
Head coach Blake Anderson was very involved in Parks' recruitment, and that connection played a role in the decision.
"Not too many head coaches were in my phone, but coach Anderson is in there. He has been talking to me on a daily basis for a while now and I know I am important to him. He is very family oriented, he is an honest man, I know he thinks highly of me, and his being involved in my recruitment meant a lot."
It wasn't just Anderson that connected with the versatile three-star prospect.
"I feel I can call and talk to any of the Arkansas State coaches about anything at any time," said Parks. "Coach Nick Paremski (safeties), coach Ethan Morriss (graduate assistant) and some others are very close to me as well.
"It is not just about football with these coaches. We talk about life, what is going on every day and all types of things. It is like one big family with them."
After much though, the decision was made June 10 and two days later, on June 12, the call was made. Parks gave them the news via FaceTime and it is a call he will remember for a long time.
"It was really exciting committing to coach Anderson. We were on video so we could see each other and when I told him my decision, he was all smiles. He wanted me, I found my school and it was a great call. We were both very happy."
Parks is likely to play safety at Arkansas State, but the coaches have gone over their scheme with him and said he could fit in multiple roles. He has great length and a frame that will allow him to add weight on the next level.