Interview: 2021 WR/FS Isaiah Wimbush Talks Transfer to Los Osos and Roles with the Grizzlies
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Among the embarrassment of riches on the Orange Lutheran 2018 high school football squad at the skill positions was ascending Class of 2021 receiver/defensive back Isaiah Wimbush. Among the five-, four-, and three-star receivers like Kyle Ford, Logan Loya, Jojo Hawkins, KJ Trujillo and highly coveted tight ends Elijah Mojarro and Ethan Rae, Wimbush was working his trade getting time in on the field going both ways. The stat line from a year ago will not overwhelm but the sheer fact that a sophomore cracked the two-deep among all that top Division-I talent paints a vivid picture. The 5-10, 165-pound, athlete made a transition in the offseason heading to Los Osos where he will line up at receiver, free safety, and on special teams as a kick and punt returner getting to fully showcase his skills for all to see. His junior campaign is sure to bring the college scouts to the Grizzlies’ yard.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with Wimbush going over his growing skills on the field, move to the Rancho Cucamonga area, and goals for the 2019 season.
Interview
Isaiah, you got time in on the field last season at two positions where the Lancers were loaded. As a cornerback, what was the daily grind like in practice going up against the five- and four-star receivers on the Lancers’ roster?
“It was always great work to compete against guys like that. They know their routes and how to come off the line. They always go after the ball even when you are straight on them.”
How did your game improve last season as a corner?
“As a corner, I was always trying to get extra work. If the guys were doing something, I was doing it with them. The five- and four-star guys we had on the team, that is where I want to be so I worked with them and against them to learn and get better.”
What about as a receiver? How did that part of your game improve?
“With Austin coaching me, he was getting me right. I was working with Logan Loya, Kyle Ford, and Jojo Hawkins. I stayed with them doing all their footwork drills – everything. If they were doing something, I was doing that. My routes got a lot better. I was able to get off the press and I was reading coverages pre-snap and during the play.”
In the offseason you transferred to Los Osos. How has the move gone on the field for you?
“It has been great. I am playing on both sides of the ball this season and I am getting good work in preparing for all the games. They brought me in as family. It is great to work with them this year.”
Where all might you play on the field this season?
“I am lining up at corner, free safety, slot, and outside receiver. I am also doing some kick and punt returns.”
Have you been doing any extra training this offseason?
“I have worked out with Coach Rob of Rharebreed. I like his speed training workouts. I worked with him over the summer. I was also doing a lot of training on my own at a park. I did some workouts with Coach Brown from Ground Zero as well.”
Did you compete at any college camps this summer?
“Yes. I went to Sacrament State and University of San Diego camps.”
Which camp was your best performance?
“I feel like I did a lot better at the San Diego camp. I was working as a defensive back at that camp. My footwork was really good. I had a lot of pass breakups and a pick at that camp. I did really well there.”
Last question. What personal goals have you set for the season?
“My goals are to be first team All-American and All-League. I want to put myself out there. I am playing all over the field this season. I want to play the best that I can for my team.”
Isaiah, it was great going over your offseason workouts and plans for the 2019 season. I appreciate your time and wish you success this season.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: recruitingnewsguru.com; No. 83 Isaiah Wimbush