Interview: College Camps has 2023 California SR/RS Dre’londe Johnson on Pac-12 and MWC Boards
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Getting that first taste of varsity football was a springboard of success for Dre’londe Johnson going into his college camp circuit. Working at receiver and in the slot for Saint Anthony’s with time as a return specialist for the Saints, Johnson (5-7, 135) was able to parlay that experience when it counted this summer in front of Mountain West and Pac-12 college coaches. Once the 2021 season kicks off, Johnson will be able to fully showcase his 4.43 speed with scouts intently watching.
In an RNG first-look confab, Johnson fills us in on his college camp circuit and how he is preparing for a breakout year with his Long Beach squad.
Interview
Dre’londe, your speed got you on the field during your sophomore campaign contributing in the run and passing game and as a return specialist. When you get going this fall, where all will we see you on the field?
You will see me at slot, getting it a lot utilizing my speed. Our new coach, he will utilize my speed a lot to show what I can do.
Because your speed is such a big asset to your game, what have you been doing to push those abilities forward this spring and summer?
I am a two-sport payer, track helps. During track season, I had an amazing one, each week I was getting faster working with Coach Ericka Brooks. Last season I ran a 4.6; since track season this year, my 40 is now a 4.43. I was getting faster and better learning how to better use my legs, my arms, and staying calm.
That 40 time is fantastic. Where did you post that time?
I ran it at JSerra during a camp. It was a combine camp.
Which events in track were you running this spring?
The 100 and 200.
Back to football, for your role on offense, what have you been doing to improve your skills as a receiver?
I have been learning by watching my idols in the NFL. I have been working on getting off the line, making each route the same, keeping my head down, having harder cuts, and being more explosive. My route running is what I have been working on the most. I am always working on my hand-eye coordination and catching the ball.
This summer, did you compete at any college camps?
Yes, I went to a Sac State camp. I did very well there. That was my first time playing football after track season, but it didn’t look that way. I was running dudes up. At the end of the camp, Cal, Colorado, San Diego State, and Washington coaches were talking to me. My second camp, that was the next day at Fresno State. I was the fastest kid in 2023 class there. I loved it. It was fun to compete at that camp.
Let’s stick with recruiting. Which schools are showing interest?
Cal, Washington, San Diego State, and Colorado.
Have you picked up an offer?
Yes, during my freshman year Bethel (KS) offered me.
This summer and on into the fall, are there any visits you may take?
I may visit UC-Davis, Fresno State, and Arizona State.
Dre’londe, I enjoyed covering ground with you today on your offseason workouts and camps. Wishing you the best this fall with Saint Anthony until we talk again.
Yes, sir. Thank you.
Photo credit: Johnson family; Dre’londe Johnson