Interview: 3-Star 2019 Louisiana WR Da’Ren Zeno Ready to Top 1,400-Yard 19-TD Season
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
There are breakthrough seasons, breakout seasons, and then what Da’Ren Zeno did during his junior season. The 6-0, 190-pound, receiver snagged 29 passes for 489 yards with three scores during his sophomore campaign but absolutely tore it up for Welsh High School in 2017 turning in a 94-reception, 1,447-yard, and 19-touchdown year. All the hard work paid off, the Greyhounds went 13-1 capturing a Louisiana 2A state title.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with one of Louisiana’s more overlooked receivers, even with a three-star recruiting ranking, to learn more about his game and recruiting prospects.
Interview
Da’Ren, what was the championship run like for you last season?
“It was good. We made history, and we had fun. I look forward to doing it again.”
You had a very solid sophomore year, but broke out in a big way during your junior campaign. What all did you have working for you allowing you to be so successful on the field?
“My quickness, my route running, and I catch everything that comes my way.”
Simple enough. What are some of your favorite routes to run?
“I like go and slant routes. I like short routes.”
What are you working on this offseason?
“I am working on getting faster and my footwork.”
Have you performed at any camps in 2018?
“I went to the Nike Opening (Houston) and to an Adidas combine.”
How did the Nike camp go?
“I did well. I got a 3-star from that camp. I did well over there.”
What upcoming camps do you have planned?
“I might go to Tulane and a LSU camp. I’m not sure yet, but I am trying to hit a lot of them.”
What is your best 40-yard dash time?
“My best laser time is a 4.66. My best hand-held time is a 4.4-flat.”
Which schools are showing recruiting interest in you but have not offered yet?
“Louisiana-Lafayette, Tulane, and Louisiana-Monroe.”
How many offers do you have now?
“I have three offers; McNeese State, Southeastern, and Idaho.”
When you have talked to different college coaches, what are the college coaches telling you they like about your game?
“They like my routes and my hands.”
Are you playing any other sports for the Greyhounds?
“Basketball.”
Back to football related questions. What kind of player are you on the field, are you a talker or do you let your play do the talking?
“I let my play do the talking, but I will talk.”
What is one of your personal favorite plays from last season?
“Against Kinder, I had two people on me. It was a jump ball, and I went up and got it.”
Last question. What do you love about playing football?
“It is fun for me. I like the hitting. It allows me to let some stress go. Football is fun. It is fun to go out there and hit.”
Da’Ren, thanks for your time today and good luck with your upcoming camps.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credit: Zeno family; No. 29 Da’Ren Zeno
Photo credit: hudl.com; No. 29 Da’Ren Zeno