Interview: 2020 California WR Joshua Jackson Talks Florida and USC Offers
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Photo credit: Raymond Joyce Photography
Twitter: @RJPSports
The recruiting world is catching on to Class of 2020 receiver/athlete Joshua Jackson Jr. Jackson was limited to six games during the 2017 season but made room for himself on a very talented Orange Lutheran squad late in the season pulling in passes from four-star 2019 quarterback Ryan Hilinski. Among the great receivers the Lancers had/have, Kyle Ford, Logan Loya, Josiah Hawkins, Elijah Mojarro, and Cam Gardner, the 6-2, 180-pound, receiver pulled in eight passes for 86 yards with a score. Offseason 7v7 action with Premium has helped skyrocket Jackson’s recruiting. On Tuesday and Wednesday, Jackson received his first offer from the Florida Gators followed by the USC Trojans.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I caught up with one of the rising stars in California’s 2020 recruiting class getting an update on his offseason workouts with his new high school, Narbonne, and an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Joshua, how are your offseason workouts coming along?
“They are coming along well. Right now, I have three or four workouts a day. The coaches at Narbonne are pushing us hard, pushing us to be the best we can be.”
What all are you working on this offseason?
“I am working on getting stronger and my overall speed. I am picking up my speed this offseason. A lot of what I do on the field comes natural for me, but I can always improve. I am working to perfect my routes and my hands as much as I can this offseason.”
You shinned last season when given the chance at receiver, will you still play receiver for Narbonne during your junior year?
“Yes. That is what is my priority.”
Where all will we see you on the field in 2018?
“As of right now, it is too early to tell. I know I will play some safety but the priority is at receiver.”
Have you attended any camps this offseason?
“I went to the Rivals camp in San Francisco.”
Which 7v7 team are you playing for this spring?
“Premium – Team Dime.”
Do you guys have any more tournaments coming up?
“No. I think we are done for the season.”
Recruiting is picking up for you, which schools are showing interest but have not offered yet?
“Oregon, Washington, and Colorado are showing interest.”
You’ve had to big announcements over the last couple of days. Which schools have offered you?
“Florida and USC.”
Congratulations.
“Thank you.”
What was it like for you receiving your first offer from the University of Florida?
“I was speechless. I had a great experience talking to the coaches. It was amazing.”
It may be a blur, but do you remember what the coaches at Florida said about why they are offering you – what they liked about your game?
“Not really. They said they liked my overall abilities and they were offering.”
How did USC you?
“Tuesday morning, after Florida offered me, the USC coaches got in touch with my coach. Today (Wednesday) after practice, USC offered me. Coach Tee Martin, their offensive coordinator, offered me after practice.”
What was that like receiving an offer from one of your hometown football programs?
“That was amazing as well. The two offers and great colleges showing interest in me – it is a blessing. I am humbled.”
Which schools have you visited so far this offseason?
“Arizona State, Arizona, and USC.”
Do you have any planned visiting coming up?
“I am going to Oregon this weekend for their spring game.”
What has you excited about visiting Oregon?
“I have always liked Oregon. I would play with them on a video game. To visit there, it is just a great experience. I am excited to watch their game to see how I could fit into their offense and with their program.”
Are you planning on attending any college camps this summer?
“I am planning to attend the USC Rising Stars Camp, that is it for now.”
What is inspiring you to work so hard playing football?
“My parents. My dad pushes me hard on athletics and my mom works with me on my academics to make sure I am doing my part. They are playing a huge role in my life as well as my little sisters.”
Joshua, thanks for your time today and congratulations, again, on your two big offers.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credit: Jackson family; No. 6 Joshua Jackson and No. 8 Brandon Jones at ASU