Interview: 2021 California QB CJ Montes on Fast Recruiting Track with Two Division I Offers
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Any opportunity a college coach may get to evaluate top talent early and thus forge a relationship going forward in hopes of earning a signed National Letter of Intent when all is said and done is a plus. Some college programs are better at evaluating underclassmen talent than others, and if Nevada and San Jose State have a say in one of the next top California players to come out of the pocket guns blazing, it is CJ Montes.
Montes surprised all in 2017 working his way from La Salle High School’s freshman squad to varsity starter two games into the season. The 6-0, 170 pound, play-caller showed poise and moxie stepping into the spotlight rifling off 40- to 50-yard bombs with touch and accuracy right into the breadbasket of streaking receivers. In 2017, Montes completed 117-of-170 passes for 1,800 yards with 18 touchdowns.
Far from a finished product, Montes has the groundwork, arm, and early varsity playing experience to quickly ascend up recruiting boards. With offers already on the table from Nevada and San Jose State, all eyes will be on the Pasadena area product during his sophomore year to see just how far he has come with his growing skillset.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Montes for a quick one-on-one covering his freshman season with the Lancers.
Interview
CJ, when did you find out you would have a key role on offense with the Lancers in 2017?
“I didn’t find out until the summer. The coaches told me then that I had a chance to compete as a freshman on varsity.”
When did you earn your starting spot with the Lancers?
“I earned it in our second game against Monrovia (won 42-40). I started the next game against Birmingham.”
What was it like for you getting snaps at the varsity level as a freshman this year?
“It felt good. It was nerve racking, but after the first play I was fine and ready to go.”
Did you have a welcome to the varsity moment?
“I took a couple of big hits, but after a while you start getting used to it.”
What adjustments did you have to make to your game stepping up to varsity ball?
“Everything came quicker, I had to process faster. I couldn’t hold the ball. I had to get rid of quicker. Everything was quicker at the varsity level.”
How did your skillset improve this year?
“I feel like I advanced my game overall. My understanding defenses, know where to go with the ball, and what to do with it all improved. I feel like my mechanics got better by the end of the season.”
What will you work on during the offseason in preparation for your sophomore season?
“I will work on understanding defenses better. I will work on my speed, strength, and getting bigger. I will work on understanding our plays better for my sophomore year.”
Are you playing 7v7 ball this spring or summer?
“I am. I am playing with M&D out of Victorville.”
Do you plan on attending any camps or combines this spring or summer?
“I’m not sure yet.”
Are you receiving any recruiting interest but have not offered?
“Oregon, SMU, and Utah are showing interest.”
Which schools have offered you?
“Nevada and San Jose State.”
How did Nevada offer you?
“They saw me play and liked me. They saw me in 2016 and again this season. They saw how much I had grown as a player and physically, they offered me over the summer.”
How did San Jose State offer you?
“They offered me over the phone. Someone put the word in for me. Their coaches liked my film and they offered me.”
What was that moment like receiving your first college scholarship offer from Nevada?
“I was excited, but I knew that meant I have to keep working harder to get even better.”
What goals have you set for yourself over the spring and summer?
“I want to get bigger, stronger, faster, and more knowledgeable about the game.”
What goals have you set for yourself for the 2018 season?
“I want to pass for over 3,000 yards and rush for over 1,000.”
CJ, thanks for your time today and good luck with your offseason workouts.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credit: midvalleysports.com; No. 7 CJ Montes
Photo credit: Pasadena Star-News; No. 7 CJ Montes