Interview: Season Opener Ahead for 4-Star 2022 Georgia Defender Jaron Williams
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
There may be bigger and scarier looking guys on the Lee County High School football roster, but for a running back, receiver, and quarterback, Jaron Willis is that intimidating presence on the field. The 6-2, 220-pound, rover/outside backer was a certified bell-ringer last season bring the pain at the point of impact against 6A Georgia offenses. The versatility he brings to the field with his speed and power can be used against the run, off the edge, and in coverage taking on running backs, tight ends, and slot receivers. All that talent helped his Trojans’ squad to an 11-2 season in 2019 with four-star recruiting status forever attached to his skillset. Those skills have attracted a collegiate crowd to Leesburg with 22 offers extended to date. More scholarships are sure to drop this season for Willis with a showcase season at strong safety adding yet another dimension to what he can do on the field for college defensive coordinators to see.
In an RNG initial interview, and less than a week away from the Trojans’ 2020 season opener, Williams breaks down his abilities on the field with an update on his growing recruiting options.
Interview
Jaron, I’m starting us off today in an unconventional way. Do you have a cool football nickname?
(Laughs) My first football nickname was J-Rod but now in high school they call me J-6.
After watching you play, you are a sledgehammer out there on the field. You set the tone and have that nasty streak that puts fear into the hearts and minds of offense players. What motivates you to play at that elite level?
For me it is being confident. Nothing motivates me. Starting early in my high school career, you have to be confident.
Do you like “The Sledgehammer” as a football nickname?
(Laughs) That’s a cool nickname.
Well, you’ve earned it.
Thank you.
As an outside linebacker in Lee County’s scheme, at the end of last season what did you feel were the strengths to your overall game?
Man coverage. We were running man and doing a lot of blitzes, I was helping out with coverage. Tackling is another strength. I was trying to hit harder and being more physical last season.
When you took on the 2020 offseason, which areas of your game did you focus on?
Working on reading offenses better. I did well last year, but you can always get better. The goal is to go make big-time plays in big situations.
Where are you already seeing the improvements?
This year, they are moving me to safety. I am helping my team out with run fit.
What defense are the Trojans running this season?
A 3-3-5.
With the run fit as a safety, are you playing strong safety?
Yes, last year I played more of a rover than outside linebacker.
How have you bulked up and added more power to your game this spring and summer?
I have been working on my legs a lot to get faster and more explosive. I have also been working on my upper body strength to rip faster. The most important work has been my mental strength. When I am tired can I go harder? I keep pushing myself and push myself to play faster.
Did you get to max out this offseason?
The Last time I maxed out I got 300 on bench and my squat was 495-500.
You mentioned your speed; have you posted a 40 this offseason?
Yes, sir. I ran a 4.6-flat.
The Trojans kick off the season on Sept. 11 against Jackson, what goals have you set for yourself that begins with taking on the Jaguars?
Yes, sir. They are a good team. We are ready for that.
What goals have you set for the upcoming season?
Win another state championship. My goals are more about the team than personal. I want to win state and win regional for a fourth year in a row.
I like it. Let’s turn to recruiting. Which schools are showing interest ahead of the 2020 season?
Notre Dame, that’s about it.
What is the offer total up to now?
Twenty-two.
Which program was the last to offer?
I got one from Indiana a few days ago.
Willis’ Offer Sheet: Auburn, Buffalo, Florida, Florida International, Florida State, Georgia Tech, Indiana, Kentucky, LSU, Michigan State, Mississippi State, Nebraska, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Pittsburgh, South Carolina, Syracuse, Tennessee, Texas A&M, USC, Virginia Tech, and West Virginia
This summer did you get a chance to take any virtual visits?
Yes, sir. I took virtual visits with Florida and Florida State.
Whenever the campuses open back up, are there any planned trips you’d like to take?
Yes. I would like to visit Florida, even though I did the virtual visit there, Georgia Tech, Tennessee, Florida Atlantic, and Ole Miss.
Jaron, I enjoyed getting time in with you today talking football. Wishing you and the Trojans success this season.
Thank you.
Photo credit: Willis family; Jaron Willis