Interview: 3-Star 2021 Missouri QB Kaden McMullen is Building upon Breakout Performance

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

The 2018 season was a breakout year for Class of 2021 quarterback Kaden McMullen, even if most did not recognize it. His Living Word Christian High School (O’Fallon) fell short of making a playoff run with a 4-6 record, but that team was young – very young. McMullen stood tall in the pocket delivering 2,206 yards in the air off 136 completed passes with 23 touchdowns going up on the board. Now the 6-4, 190-pound, quarterback returns for his junior season, along with all the other underclassmen who took their lumps in 2018, with experience gained and a chip on their shoulder. It all adds up for trouble brewing for those 3A teams on the Eagles’ schedule in 2019.

In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with the three-star Missouri recruit covering his growing skills on the field, offseason workouts, and goals for the upcoming 2019 season.

Interview

Kaden, the Eagles may not have had the season desired in 2018 with a 4-6 record, but that roster was filled with underclassmen. How has last season’s experience help propel the team forward this offseason in workouts and practices?

“It has been motivation. We did not have the season we wanted to, now we have that fire. We have not been past the second round in the playoffs. We want to get past that round this season.”

What type of offense do you run with the Eagles?

“We run a Spread. We do a lot of plays out of the shotgun with a lot of four wide and one back sets.”

How does the offense fit your skillset?

“We pass a lot. I am not a dual-threat, but I can run. All those receivers in our offense gives me options. My decision-making abilities fits the offense. I am able to read defenses well and my leadership fits the offense – getting guys in the right spot. My accuracy is my greatest trait as a thrower.”

Nice transition to the next question. Through the tough times during your sophomore season, you still performed at a very high level, especially with your completion percentage (60). How have you worked your game to become such an accurate passer?

“My timing with the receivers is a big part of it. Us getting on the field and getting the work in makes a difference. The work put in when the lights are not on really helps a lot come game time.”

Which areas of your technique have you been focused on this spring and summer?

“I have worked on my speed and strength. Even though I am not a dual-threat, I want to be the running quarterback who can break off 60-yard touchdowns where no one is close to me.”

Where are you seeing the improvements in all the work put into your game?

“Honestly, I am seeing the biggest improvements in my arm strength. A year ago, I could barely reach 50 yards. Now I am throwing it 60 to 69 yards. It is crazy what the weight room can do for you.”

Did you showcase those improvements at any camps this summer?

“Yes. We went to camps at Mizzou, Eastern Illinois, Illinois State, and Western Illinois.”

Of all the camps, which was your best camp performance?

“My best was at Western Illinois.”

What did you do well at that camp to make it your best?

“I showed my leadership and how much I like to compete at that camp. I was putting guys in the right spot and letting them know what they are doing.”

With the season about to start, which schools are showing recruiting interest?

“I am receiving interest from Michigan State, Boston College, and Eastern Illinois.”

Did you get to visit any campuses this offseason?

“Yes. We took one to Kentucky.”

If you will, tell me about that visit.

“It was good. I really like the facilities and I really liked their coaching staff.”

Turning to the upcoming season. How is the team looking overall?

“I like the way we are coming together. We are becoming a brotherhood. Last year it was all over the place. Now we have the brotherhood I feel we need. I feel like we will do something special this season.”

What goals have you set for yourself in 2019?

“I just want to win. All the individual stats do not mean much. I just want to win a state championship.”

You touched on this a few minutes ago. With a big season ahead for the team, leadership is crucial. How do you describe your leadership style as a key player on the Eagles’ roster?

“The younger guys, they look up to me. I am getting them ready for the game, their first varsity game. I know they will be nervous. It is up to me to get them in the right spot; I show my leadership that way. I am always the first at practice and the last to leave.”

Kaden, thanks for your time today. I wish you and the Eagles success in fall camp and with the upcoming season.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: hudl.com; No. 1 Kaden McMullen rolls out

Photo credit: stltoday.com; No. 1 Kaden McMullen avoids the rush