Interview: 4-Star 2019 California DL Stephon Wright Breaks Down Recruiting Ahead of Announcement
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Since Stephon Wright’s freshman season in 2015, when he was playing tight end, he has worked his way into being one of the top talents in the nation but now as a 6-4, 290-pound, impossible to block defensive end. Over 20 Division-I programs have extended offers to Wright hoping he will sign their letter of intent on Wednesday during a ceremony kicking off the early signing period for college football. Ahead of his announcement and signing, I sat down with the four-star recruit for an exclusive insight on the big decision he is about to make.
Stephon Wright Profile
Position: Defensive End/Tackle
Height and Weight: 6-4, 290
Classification: 2019
Ranking: 4-star
High School: Cathedral – Los, Angeles, CA – Division-II – Angelus League
2018: 8-3
2018 Stats (9 games): 59 tackles, 21 solo, 17 tackles for a loss, 5.5 sacks, 32 QB hurries, three passed batted down, and one forced fumble
2017 Phantoms Team Record: 10-2
2017 (10 games): 44 tackles, 25 solo, 11 tackles for a loss, five sacks, 18 QB hurries, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries – both returned for a touchdown
2016 Stats (8 games): 20 tackles, 11 tackles for a loss, five sacks, five quarterback hurries, three passes batted down, and one forced fumble
2015 Stats (four games): seven receptions for 99 yards
Offers (23): Alabama, Washington, USC, Arizona State, Mississippi State, Iowa State, Colorado, Boston College, Morgan State, Kansas, TCU, Cal, Arizona, Oregon State, San Jose State, Illinois, Utah, Washington State, Nebraska, Texas A&M, and Oklahoma
Official Visits: Oregon, Washington, Arizona State, Illinois, and Colorado
Q&A Interview
Stephon, you were once again a force opposing offenses had to account for on every play this season. What were some of the ways offenses schemed to try to slow you down?
“This season they were double-teaming more, and even on passing plays.”
You had an incredible 17 tackles for a loss and 32 quarterback hurries in stats through nine games. What were you doing so well allowing you to create chaos in the opposition’s backfield?
“I was just sticking to the script and trying my best to dominate.”
How did your game improve during your senior year?
“I improved the use of my hands and being more violent. I improved by being more technically sound.”
Have you already started your offseason workouts, if so, what is the focus of your workouts?
“I am rehabbing from shoulder surgery (labrum). I will start working out again in January.”
In general, how did college coaches respond to your senior year; what were they saying they liked?
“They said they liked how I went after the ball and that I was showing improvement week by week.”
Which position are you primarily being recruited to play?
“Defensive end – actually, everything on the line.”
Which schools have you officially visited?
“Oregon, Washington, Arizona State, Illinois, and Colorado.”
How did the Washington visit go?
“It was good. I got to meet the players and coaches, and I learned more about the program. It was a success.”
What about Arizona State, how did that go?
“It was good. I got to sit down and talk to Coach Herm (Edwards – HC). He explained to me what the future holds for them at Arizona State.”
Which schools have you hosted for in-home visits?
“Washington, Oregon, USC, and Arizona State.”
For those that have never been through the experience, what are in-home visits like?
“Basically, talking with you and your family about everything but away from school.”
When will you announce?
“I announce tomorrow at 12:00 p.m.”
Have you put out a list of your top schools?
“No. I am just going to announce and sign tomorrow.”
How have you narrowed down the schools, what is on your criteria list in the decision process?
“I have narrowed my list down by what feels best for me and where I fit in best. Where do I see myself at that school for the future.”
Last question, what will it feel like when you announce and sign knowing your dreams are coming to fruition?
“Surreal. But, at the same time, now it is up to me about where my future goes.”
Stephon, I appreciate your time today and wish you luck tomorrow.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: recruitingnewsguru.com; Stephon Wright