Interview: 2023 Washington ATH/DE Jayden Wayne Enters Season with an Offer from Oregon
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
There is nothing that compliments high school action on the gridiron better than going to a college camp showcasing one’s talents first-hand to coaches. Athleticism, speed, strength – you name it, can all be questioned off game film, but we all trust what our collective eyes see in-person. This summer, rising Class of 2023 Lincoln High School prospect Jayden Wayne took his skills to camps with Oregon and Washington doing just that. By the time his camp performances were finished, the 6-5, 220-pound, recruit earned defensive MVP honors from the Huskies and a scholarship offer from the Ducks. Now all eyes turn to what Wayne can do on the field for the Abes. Wayne is fighting for a two-way starting spot at defensive end and on offense at tight end and receiver.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with perhaps the most intriguing 2023 prospect in the state of Washington to learn more about his talents on the field with a inside look on his standout camp performances.
Interview
You are making a big move this season fighting for a varsity spot on a very good Lincoln High School squad. How have the offseason workouts and practices with the team gone?
“They have been good. We have been going hard in practice. We are out there competing.”
Where all might you line up for the Abes this season?
“I am lining up at defensive end, receiver, and tight end.”
What have you been working on with your skills as a defender this summer?
“I have been working on my hands and my speed. I’m also working on becoming a better run-stopper and being more violent with my hands.”
Which areas of your game have you been working with offense?
“I have been working on my route running and getting faster and stronger.”
Did you compete at any camps this summer?
“Yes. I went to camps with Washington and Oregon.”
How did the Washington camp performance go?
“I got defensive MVP at the camp.”
Impressive. What did you do well at the Washington camp to earn MVP honors?
“I was competing against the best using my hands and speed on the edge.”
And the Oregon camp. I know that was a big one as well. How did that go?
“It went well. I got an offer at the camp. Again, I was using my hands and speed.”
Which schools, that you know of, are now showing interest?
“Washington and Tennessee.”
You’ve picked up an offer. Which program has offered you?
“Oregon.”
That is a dream come true for any high school athlete earning their first scholarship offer. What was it like for you receiving an offer from Oregon?
“It was very exciting. I did not know I was going to get it. It was out of nowhere.”
Turning back to football. What goals have you set for this year?
“My goal is to earn a starting spot on the varsity squad, and get sacks and score touchdowns for my team.”
With the goal of earning a starting spot as an underclassman, do you think you will achieve that goal?
“Yes, I do.”
I like it. Last couple of questions – for fun. What do you like to do away from football and sports for fun?
“I like to swim.”
What are your favorite subjects in school?
“I like science and math.”
Jayden, it was great learning more about you and your game today. Congratulations on the offer from Oregon and I hope the 2019 season is a great one for you.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Oregonian; Wayne family; Jayden Wayne at an Oregon camp