Interview: 2021 California CB/WR Kelton Howard Impressing with Classical Academy
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Over the offseason, Class of 2021 cornerback/receiver Kelton Howard made the move from El Camino High School to Classical Academy (2-2) with his skillsets fitting in like butter on toast. The simple recipe for success has the Caimans coaching staff putting their 5-11, 168-pound, playmaker in a position to succeed. In stats posted through three games, Howard has ended 25 plays with a pick, a pass breakup, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. On an offensive unit loaded with skill players, Howard has carved a spot out for himself hauling in nine passes for 60 yards with two trips into the end zone and has returned two kicks for 40 yards.
For many college coaching staffs this is their first time getting a glimpse of all that Howard can do on the field, but UCLA, Azusa Pacific, and Boise State got ahead of the curve hosting Howard over the summer at their respective camps. To learn how the offseason workouts and change in venue is working out for Howard in 2019, we sat down for a one-on-one talk.
Interview
Kelton, you have some wheels on you running around on offense and it is obvious you are athletic seeing how you go up for the ball. What is your best vertical jump?
“My vertical is a 35 to 36-inches range.”
You played in the slot last season. How were you getting the ball during your junior season to make plays?
“I was reading their defenses Cover 2, breaking open with linebacker blitzing. My money routes are corners and posts.”
Where all are you lining up within the offense this season and which routes are you running on the tree?
“I am playing Z at outside receiver. Last season I was 5-7, now I am 5-11. They have me mainly running posts, fades or 7-yard curls.”
How did you prepare over the summer months for the 2019 season?
“I worked my butt off in the gym. I was on a meal plan, that is how I gained 15 pounds and now weighing 168 pounds. I got a lot faster with the trainers I have been working with over the offseason.”
Tell me about your game on defense this season.
“On defense, I have been more on defensive this season because we have a stacked offense. We are a stacked passing team. I am playing free and strong safety. I have made great tackles blowing kids up running across the field.”
What do you feel are the strengths to your game as a defender?
“I don’t fear anyone. I play hungry and angry ready to make a play.”
I like it. Did you compete at any college camps this summer?
“Yes. I competed at UCLA, Boise State, and APU (Azusa Pacific).”
Of the three, which was your best performance?
“By far I performed better at UCLA.”
What did you do well at the UCLA camp to make it your best?
“I did well on the receiving end making great plays. A lot of college coaches were talking to me after that camp.”
Nice. Which schools that you know of are showing interest as the season gets going?
“Wyoming, San Diego State – I went on visit there, Utah State, and University of San Diego.”
The SDSU visit, how did that go?
“It was great. I love their program. It is like a family there. I love their work ethic.”
Did you visit any other schools this offseason?
“Yes. I went to Utah State.”
How did that visit go?
“Their campus is beautiful. Utah State is family orientated and everyone wants to win.”
Are there any visits in the near future?
“I might take a game day visit to APU, I will be going to SDSU and Cal-Poly at some point this season.”
Kelton, thanks for your time today and good luck the rest of the way.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Howard family; Kelton Howard on the field and at SDSU