Interview: Ellsworth JUCO All-American Linebacker Julian Baldi Weighing Recruiting Options
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
What happens when a weight room warrior takes that physicality onto the field with the desire to deliver punishment? You get third team 2019 NJCAA All-American linebacker Julian Baldi. Baldi began his sophomore season with Ellsworth (IA) at outside linebacker and then transitioned in at Mike coming up with 45 stops, 21 solo, for the national honors. With the virus limiting recruiting across the board, the 6-1, 230-pound, talent out of Florida via Italy is fielding offers with two to play two.
In an RNG first-look interview, Baldi stopped by the Lab to give insight on his sophomore season in Iowa with a look at his recruiting process.
Interview
Julian, you picked up NJCAA All-American honors for your play on the field. What was going your way allowing for the top honor in 2019?
One of the main pieces that helped me was studying film, knowing opponent, and knowing the right time to make the play. That really helped me.
Looks like the team was running a base 4-3 with you in the middle, but depending on the team there were some variations. What fronts were you guys executing and where all were you lining up?
Our base was a 4-3, I played Mike. We had a 5-2 and 3-4 depending on the down and distance.
What were your responsibilities within the scheme?
In the first few games they had me at end/outside linebacker depending on what front we were running. During the season switched me to inside linebacker. I am versatile depending on the scheme. My responsibilities were mainly cover run first and the Cover 2 coverages going deep, but we didn’t do that a lot.
During the 2019 season, how did your talents as a linebacker improve?
One of the biggest things was my tackling technique. We practiced that a lot. My open field tackling and tracking the ball improved a lot.
You have that nose for the ball that all collegiate linebackers need. What do you feel are the things you do well on the field that separates you from other backers?
I am a physical player and I like the physicality of the game. Because I study game film, I know the tendencies of my opponent and I am quick to react and there at the right time to make the play. I am a big downhill player who likes to hit people and be very physical.
Is there a trait to your game that may get overlooked?
My general athleticism and flexibility. I can do the front split and I can touch the floor with my forehead seated. With my abilities, my blitzing ability and getting the through offensive linemen making my moves.
Going into the weight room, what are some of your maxes?
A 500-pound squat, 345-pound power clean, and 370 on bench.
What have you been doing this offseason to push your athleticism, speed, and agility forward?
For athleticism I am focusing on explosive strength. I have been doing on the field sled sprints, trying to improve that first five to 10 yards speed.
Let’s get into recruiting. Which schools are showing interest?
I am talking to Rutgers, Eastern Michigan, Nevada, Western Carolina, and Northwestern State.
Which programs have offered you?
Fordham, Incarnate Word, Stephen F. Austin, and Wagner. TCU has given me a preferred walk-on offer.
When you make that decision on a four-year, what does the ideal fit look like to you?
I want a great education, a 4-3 system, and to play competitive football.
Last question. What is your process forward?
For now, I might wait until May to transfer. I may make a decision around April and see my options then.
Julian, I appreciate your time today and wish you continued success with your offseason workouts and with recruiting.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Baldi family; Julian Baldi