Interview: Recruiting Heating Up for 5-Star 2021 Louisiana K Caden Costa
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
If a quarterback only had the opportunity to throw the ball three times a game, in a clutch situation or not, how might football fans feel about the position and the skills of their beloved field generals? For kickers and punters, perhaps no other position is scrutinized so deeply with so few chances to show the talent, and not always in ideal situations.
For Caden Costa, he has made a career of coming up big for Mandeville High School as a three-year starter for the Skippers punching in three game winning field goals. Over his three varsity campaigns against Louisiana 5A competition, Costa has been a high achiever on the field earning five-star status as a kicker/kickoff specialist and 4.5-star status as a punter from kicking guru Chris Sailer along with All-District and All-Parish honors in 2019. The talents plus his academic success, carrying a 4.1 cumulative GPA was a 30 scored on the ACT, has brought in three offers with interest spanning the nation.
In an RNG first-look, Costa sat down for an RNG Q&A going over his special teams skill talents with an update on his recruitment.
Interview
Caden, how did the 2019 season go for you on the field with the Skippers?
“It was great. We turned a pretty rough season into a really good one. We went against the No. 3 team in the state and beat them in a dramatic way. It was a great season, and we have a lot of seniors coming back. It is looking great for this season.”
What roles were you filling on special teams?
“I was the kicker, field goal kicker, and punter.”
With kickoffs, what is your average?
“Usually I am around 70-yards on touchbacks. I had a good percentage.”
On field goals, at what ranges are you most consistent?
“In games, depending on the conditions, up to 55 yards I am comfortable.”
What is the farthest field goal you have hit in a game and in practice or at a camp?
“In a game it was 44-yards. We did not try many further than that last season; we were successful on offense. My best in practice was 65-yards, I did that at a Southern Miss camp kicking with their kicker.”
Being a kicker is all about getting it done under pressure, what were some high-pressure moments for you last season that helped challenge you as a player?
“I hit a game winning field goal against our district rival Ponchatoula. We were down 38-40 with seven seconds left, I hit it and we won. I have kicked three game winning field goals in my high school career.”
That is awesome. What is that feeling like coming through in the clutch?
“A lot of excitement and celebrating with teammates after coming up big in a moment you dream for. As a kicker, getting it done in high pressure situations you get a great reward. It is a pretty great feeling.”
How did your game improve throughout your junior season?
“I’ve been very adamant in the weight room and on the field becoming more athletic; I believe that sets me apart from other kickers. And I also play tight end. Having that competitive mindset helps with kicking. You can ask my coaches about that. One thing Chris Sailer says about me is the steady improvement I have made which is a result of my work ethic.”
What was your role as a tight end with the Skippers last season?
“I was a starter. They used me more as a blocker; I was productive in the run game. I had five or six receptions in one of our playoff games after one of our receivers got hurt.”
This may have been touched on already, but is there an accomplishment on the field from last year you are most proud of?
“Being able to put it in the end zone on a very consistent basis on kickoffs. We were successful making the other teams have to go the whole field. Going against us, the ball starts at the 20-yard line every time. Also being productive on field goals and being consistent. As a three-year starter as a field goal kicker, having that experience of hitting big kicks is something I am proud of.”
If the college camp season happens this summer, are there any you may attend?
“Yes. The Tulane/LSU joint camp, that is a big one. I am also looking at Virginia Tech, Memphis, Arkansas, and anything that pops up that would be a good opportunity.”
Air Force and Army have extended offers, which schools are showing interest?
“Rutgers, ULL (Louisiana-Lafayette), I’m talking to them in the next couple of days, Tulane, I have a Facetime with them on Monday, Memphis, Colorado, LSU, Rice, Arkansas, Virginia Tech, Georgia Tech, and Louisiana Tech are all showing interest.”
*ULL offered after this interview was conducted
Over the last few months, going back to last season, have you had a chance to visit any programs?
“Yes. I have been on visits to Georgia Tech, Louisiana Tech, and Tulane.”
How did the Georgia Tech visit go?
“It was great. I had very good conversations with their coaches. Since then, I have been keeping up with their situation in the specialist room and staying in good contact with their coaches.”
And the Tulane visit?
“It was great. Coach (Chris) Couch (special teams), Coach JJ McCleskey (secondary), and I have had good conversations. Tulane is local for me; near my house. I also had good conversations with their other coaches. I loved the game day experience at Tulane.”
Do you have any planned visits coming up?
“All is based on interest and offers at the time everything opens up.”
Caden, it was great getting time in with you today. Wishing you continued success with your offseason workouts.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Costa family; Caden Costa at Louisiana Tech