Interview: One to Watch Season on the Schedule for 2020 Oklahoma QB Daniel Jackson

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

Setbacks can lead to big steps forward, and if all goes to plan in 2018 Daniel Jackson will be grabbing headlines in Oklahoma newspapers with his play on the field for Chandler High School. The dual-threat quarterback has spent the entire offseason honing his craft putting his skills to the test at the Blue-Grey All-American Combine in February, the USA Oklahoma City Regional, and Reload Camp in New Mexico where he won MVP honors prepping for a breakthrough junior season.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with the 5-11, 175-pound, breakout candidate gaining insight on his overall abilities in the pocket with an update on his offseason workouts.

Interview

Daniel, what type of offense do you execute for the Lions?

“We run a spread/up-tempo offense. At the same time, it is somewhat a power.”

What are the strengths of your game within the offense?

“I can run and pass. As a dual-threat, I threaten both for defenses. I’m about 50-50 running and passing. Going into my sophomore year, I stepped up my running game a lot more than my freshman year. As a passer, I’d say I can hit every pass. I don’t have trouble seeing anything in the pocket downfield. Being 5-11, I am good at keeping my eyes downfield looking for a receiver to get open. I stay in the pocket and I can deliver. I am as much a threat throwing as running. I can go through my progressions quickly.”

Are you working with a private quarterback coach?

“Yes. I am working with Tom George.”

What are you working on this offseason with Coach George?

“I’ve been working on improving my passing game as well as my mobility in the pocket. I’ve been doing a lot of technique work throwing the ball and speed training. I’ve worked on being focused on timing with my throws, the mechanics of throwing each route, my drops and when the ball needs to be delivered.”

Which camps have you attended so far this offseason?

“I have attended the Blue-Grey All-American Combine in February, the USA Oklahoma City Regional, and the Reload Camp in New Mexico over the weekend.”

How did Reload Camp go?

“It went well. I won camp MVP honors.”

What did you do well to earn MVP honors?

“At the Reload camp, I took the time before the camp to tell myself to step up my game. I stepped up in my leadership role and staying on top of doing the best I can and helping other guys out at the same time. I threw the ball really well. My footwork was really good over the weekend.”

Are you receiving any early recruiting interest?

“East Central University and Southern Illinois are showing interest.”

Do you have any planned visits upcoming?

“On June 1, I am going to Southern Illinois.”

Are there any college camps you may attend this summer?

“This month I am going to an East Central camp. In June, I am going to Southern Illinois for a visit and then the next day they have the camp. The other camps I may attend are the Oklahoma Baptist, Central Oklahoma, Tulsa, and Camp Impact in Oklahoma City.”

What is your favorite subject in school?

“Math.”

Do you play any other sports for Chandler?

“I ran track this year.”

Which events?

“The 100 and 200.”

When do the Lions start spring ball?

“We start on May 21st.”

How is the team looking overall in the weight room or if you guys are throwing on the side?

“We are probably the best we have been over the past two years strength and skill wise. There are a lot of guys that have been playing baseball but are back. We are all coming back together now after baseball ended. We are getting in the weight room and looking good.”

Is there at least one goal you want to accomplish this offseason before the 2018 season kicks off?

“I’ve been really focused on getting my 40 down; getting it down to a 4.5. I’m stronger than I have been in the past. I have surpassed my goals set for the offseason I set in the weight room.”

Daniel, thanks for your time today and good luck with the camps and spring practices.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credits: Jackson family; Daniel Jackson at Reload Camp