Interview: 3-Star 2021 California CB/ATH Elisha Lloyd Talks Utah Utes Commitment
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Even if the recruiting rankings and the offers did not suggest such early on, since Elisha Lloyd’s 1,000-yard 26-touchdown season in 2017, he’s been that athlete everyone in the know knew would be a top collegiate talent in his class. Through all the hard work at Cathedral Catholic and now with Mission Hills, the 5-10.5, 175-pound, speedster never backed down or shied away from taking on a challenge at any skill position, and now all that ability will be on display with the University of Utah over the next four years.
Lining up at corner, receiver, running back, nickel, or wherever, Lloyd’s been able to use his 4.37 speed and natural athleticism to make plays. His comeuppance took off over the spring and into the summer of 2020 rising to a three-star recruit with 19 offers dropped. On June 25, Lloyd verbally committed to Washington State, but Utah kept with him on the recruiting trail. On Oct. 26, Lloyd decommitted from the Cougars announcing on Nov. 2 he’s a Utes.
For the inside scoop on his commitment to Utah, Lloyd stopped by the RNG Lab for another interview.
Interview
Elisha, I’ve known you for a long time now. I could not be happier for anyone else than you finding out about your commitment to Utah. Congratulations.
Thank you.
As one who believed in you early and has pushed your talents out there for the rest of the world to know about, even when it was hard seeing the payoff you were patient and kept working hard. This spring through the summer you were finally getting your due with offers just rolling in. How did it feel to finally be recognized as big-time college athlete?
That was one of the best feelings. Like you said, I was grinding, going to workouts, and doing everything I could to make it happen. Going through this, it changed my mentality, and then things started coming in. This is what I have been working for, this is my dream, and that has pushed me to work even harder.
On May 26, you announced you had received an offer from Utah. If you will, walk us through the process from interest, to offer, and then commitment with the Utes.
Coach (Sharrieff) Shah (CB), he was my main recruiter with Utah. When he reached out, our first time talking was a long conversation. He took the time to get to know me and my family, and to learn about my academics. That relationship started it all. Ever since then he has maintained a strong relationship with me. Those were the main things that kept my options open with Utah even after committing to Wazzu (Washington State).
At which position did they recruit you to play?
Nickel and he mentioned moving me around to outside corner too.
When did you start to lean towards Utah?
It took me more time after my commitment with Washington State. Coach Shah kept that relationship open with me. I looked into Utah, especially the defensive backs that they have developed, and into their academics. They have a great business program, which is what I want to major in. After doing the research, I started thinking this might be the better choice for me.
What was the tipping point for you that made them your ideal fit?
The main tipping point, I’d have to say the part when I was doing my research with the school and conversations with my head coach, and some players there. Terrel Burges (SS – Rams) was a good person to talk to for me. We both come from the same area. All the information led me there.
When did you verbally commit to the staff?
I verbally committed about a week ago… Yes, about seven days ago. I planned on announcing on Nov. 1, but my guy that was to do the edit lagged on me.
Which coach did you notify first?
It was Coach Shah.
With this process over, how does it feel?
Oh man, it feels great. I can breathe again and focus. I am even more motivated to grind so that when I step on that field, I am at the level of a college athlete or better.
Did you do anything to celebrate this moment?
I didn’t actually. I was just hanging out with my family.
How are the offseason workouts coming along?
Really good. Right now, we are not able to work out in full groups. We are working in groups of 10, but we are getting it done. I feel our leadership has been great.
I don’t think you can get any faster, but just in case, what is the most recent timed run you’ve laid down, and what did you post?
4.37
Just to make sure, are you playing your senior season or will you be an early enrollee?
I am playing my senior year with Mission.
Which positions are you playing this season?
You will see me on special teams, offense, and defense.
Which position on offense?
Receiver and running back.
Elisha, it was great getting time with you today learning more about your commitment to Utah. Once again, congrats and keep up the hard work.
Yes, sir.
Lloyd’s Offer Sheet: Boise State, Boston College, Fresno State, Hawaii, Idaho, Idaho State, Kansas State, Lehigh, Navy, Nevada, New Mexico, Northern Arizona, Pennsylvania, Sacramento State, San Diego State, Tulane, UNLV, Utah, and Washington State
Photo credit: Lloyd family; Elisha Lloyd