Interview: 3-Star 2021 OLB Jaden Genova Updates College Camps and Recruiting
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The 2018 season was a party on the field for Class of 2021 outside linebacker Jaden Genova. As his JSerra Catholic team rose through the ranks in California and on the national scene, Genova was a breakout underclassman star for the Lions tallying 78 stops, 55 solo, 14 tackles for a loss, nine sacks, six QB hurries, one forced fumble, and snagged an interception. The 6-0, 205-pound, athlete got to showcase a little more of his playmaking abilities on offense with a couple of carries for 12 yards and six receptions for 82 yards posting three scores on the board. His work against Trinity League foes has garnered offers from Oregon and Idaho State with Wisconsin, Vanderbilt, and Washington showing interest.
With the camp season nearing an end in California, I caught up with Genova for an overview on his offseason workouts and camp performances in a catch-up interview.
*Click link for April 1, 2019, RNG interview with Jaden Genova
Interview
Jaden, how did spring ball with the Lions go?
“It went well. We split up our team into two for the spring game. From what I saw, we are looking good.”
How was the team split?
“The coaches picked the players and put them on the different teams. We practiced as a team that way.”
What did your team focus on during the spring sessions?
“We focused on chemistry and defensive installs.”
What did you focus on at your position?
“I focused on my edge rushing, hands, and getting off blocks. I have been working on my hips and coverage a lot. I have also been working on my speed.”
Where are you seeing the progress in your game?
“I am seeing improvements with my reads and knowing what is going on around me.”
What kind of work have you been doing separate from team workouts and practices?
“I have been working with a strength coach.”
Did you compete at any camps this summer?
“Yes. I went to a Redlands camp with Washington and Utah State and camps at Vanderbilt and Wisconsin.”
How did the Vanderbilt camp performance go?
“It went really well. I don’t think I lost a rep. I was in the zone at that camp.”
What about the Wisconsin camp, how did that go?
“It went well. It was a padded camp. I got after it a little bit at that one.”
You got some good hits in during the Wisconsin camp?
“I got a few. I got a few in with no linemen in the Oklahoma drill also.”
With camp season winding down, which schools are showing the most interest but have not offered yet?
“The schools showing the most interest are Wisconsin, Vanderbilt, and Washington.”
I know you have a couple of offers, from which schools?
“Oregon and Idaho State.”
Nice. Going into the classroom – how did the school year end up?
“I have a 3.5 GPA for the year and my cumulative is also a 3.5.”
Last question. Do you have any fun plans for the summer?
“No, just football, but those are fun plans.”
Jaden, great catching up with you today. I appreciate your time and wish you success with the rest of your summer workouts.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: RecruitingNewsGuru.com; Jaden Genova