Interview: Braylon Jefferson is Another Cisco JUCO OLB Ready for a Big Sophomore Season

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

College coaches from Group of 5 to Power 5 Conferences can routinely count on Cisco College in Texas to produce multiple next level talents in a given recruiting class. Another torch bearer keeping the tradition alive and well is Class of 2018 outside linebacker/defensive end Braylon Jefferson.

Jefferson spent his freshman season behind Texas A&M Aggies signee Michael Clemons. While Clemons, at 6-6, 250 pounds, terrorized opposing offenses with 30 stops 8.5 tackles for a loss, and 2.5 sacks in stats posted through six games, his Houston area understudy was equally unrelenting against junior college left tackles. Through nine games, Jefferson racked up 55 tackles, 11.5 tackles for a loss, 4.5 sacks, and one fumble recovery with one pass broken up.

Seeing the 6-1, 235 pound, Jefferson eat up the competition was not surprising, especially for those following him since his Eisenhower High School days. While with the Eagles, Jefferson was a three-time first team All-District performer. With the focus on another standout season for Jefferson, college coaches in need of a do-all immediate impact outside linebacker will once again be drawn to Cisco during the 2017 season.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Jefferson as the Wranglers prepare to start fall camp on Aug. 5 covering his freshman season on the field and his off-season workouts.

Interview

Braylon, you made a splash last season with a great stat line. What was the biggest adjustment for you going from the high school level to JUCO level last year?

“It was not a big transition for me. Football is football. It is not too hard for me to go out and hit someone. I was not starting something new for me. I was playing linebacker, something I was used to playing.

“I was behind Michael Clemons. I was his backup, but we got the same amount of reps. But, not being on the field as a starter was something I had to get used to early in the season.”

How did your senior season with Eisenhower go for you?

“My senior season was great. As a unit, we were brothers. We played together and stayed with each other all the time. On the field, I started from my sophomore year to my senior year. I was used to everything. I knew what was going on and the pace of the game. I knew what I need to do to take over.”

How has your game improved since your senior year to today?

“My game has improved a lot. I understand the game more now. With my hand placement, back then I did not understand it. Now I know what I need to do. I understand the plays now. From watching film, I am picking up on keys quicker and knowing my opponent along with their tendencies before we take the field. I am getting better and better as a player.”

Which offensive lineman gave you a challenge last season?

“I can’t think of anyone.”

 

What have you been working on this off-season to prepare for your sophomore year?

“I’ve been working on getting stronger and faster. I am stepping up showing the younger guys how to fall into place and how to play their role on the team. And, how to buy into our schemes.”

What is your cumulative GPA at Cisco?

“A 2.8.”

When do you graduate?

“In May 2018.”

What goals have you set for your sophomore season?

“My goal is 21 sacks. I want to beat the JUCO record. I want 15 tackles for a loss and I’d love a touchdown on defense.”

How are you going to mentally preparing for each game this season?

“I visualize everything on Monday, that is my prep day. On Tuesday, we see it on the field in practice. On Wednesday, I think about what I have to do ahead of time to make the play. By Saturday, I should be making that play.”

When does Cisco start fall camp?

“We start on Aug. 5.”

Are you excited for the season?

“Yes, sir. I’m ready to get back in pads.”

How does the team look?

“Our team will lean on our sophomores leading the freshmen. They (freshmen) have to buy in and go off our flow the rest of the way for us to have a great season.”

How will you be utilized this season within the defensive scheme?

“I play rush end. I’m the end that moves around a lot. In our scheme, there is no telling where I will be. I can get out in space or come back in the box. I can play anywhere.”

What is your motivation on the field?

“Elijah Haywood. I play for him. He is my brother.”

Braylon, thanks for your time today and good luck with the upcoming season.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credits: Cisco College; No. 9 Braylon Jefferson with Cisco (2016)