Interview: SEC Picking Up on 4-Star 2023 Big Ten and ACC DE/OLB Target James Heard Jr
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The 2021 roster for St. Joseph Prep added a big piece to the puzzle this offseason seeing four-star Class of 2023 defensive end James Heard Jr. join the team. The 6-2, 225-pound, outside linebacker/defensive end drew national recognition during his sophomore campaign with New Jersey’s Eastern High School putting an end to 25 plays, 20 solo, with 6.5 tackles for a loss, and 3.5 sacks in a shortened schedule. As Heard makes the move to Pennsylvania, college coaches from the ACC and Big Ten are sure to follow with interest piquing from SEC programs.
In an RNG first-look conversation, Heard gives insight on his new roles with St. Joseph Prep while updating his growing recruiting process.
Interview
James, last season you were an outside backer in a 3-4 alignment putting the fear of God in running backs and quarterbacks. When the 2021 season gets going, where all will we see you on the field?
I will be at defensive end this year, at the Will position.
What will be the base defense you are working out of during the 2021 schedule?
It is kind of a 4-3, sometimes going into a 4-4. I will be coming off the edge and, on some plays, I am going into coverage.
To get ready for the 2021 season, what have you been working on with your fundamentals on defense?
My pass rushing techniques. This offseason I have been focused more on technique, run stopping, and squeezing the offensive tackle. I have been learning more and more about the defensive end position as I go along.
Which lifts and/or exercises have you been doing to bring more power and agility to your skillset?
I have a gym in my basement; my dad trains me. He has me doing squats, hang cleans, and stuff like that. That translates to what I do with my position trainer, Coach Thompson. He works with me on my pass rushing and techniques.
Have you maxed out in the last few months? If so, what did you post?
My hang clean is 225, my squat is 405, and my bench is 315.
Did you take your skills to any national camps this spring or summer?
Yes, I went to a Rivals camp in April. I started off the year at an Under Amour camp, then Rivals, and then the Rivals 5-Star challenge in Georgia. My last camp was The Opening.
The 5-Star Challenge is a big one; how did that go?
I did pretty good. I went 1 for 1. Other than that, it was a short day. We did drills. I felt good out there.
At the Under Armour camp, tell me about your performance during the one-on-ones.
I came out of that camp the Defensive End MVP. I did well in the drills and I went 2-0 at end.
Very cool. Congratulations.
Thank you.
Did you go to any college camps?
I went to one of Virginia’s camps.
What did the Virginia coaches have you do at their camp?
They had me at linebacker. I was doing drops and working in coverages.
Did you feel that you did well at the UVA camp?
Yes, sir. I did well. I went straight from Rivals to that camp.
Let’s talk recruiting. Which schools are showing interest as we near the 2021 season?
Clemson, Ohio State, and Notre Dame. Of the schools that have offered me, Virginia, A&M, Rutgers, and Penn State have been contacting me the most.
How many offers do you have?
I have 12.
Which programs were the last couple to offer you?
Boston College, Virginia, and Tennessee.
Heard’s Offer Sheet: Boston College, Maryland, Nebraska, Penn State, Rutgers, Temple, Tennessee, Texas A&M, Virginia, Virginia Tech, and West Virginia
Did you visit any programs this summer?
Yes, sir. I visited Penn State, Rutgers, and Virginia.
How was the Penn State visit?
It was great. I love the coaches there. They give a cool vibe. Coach (James) Franklin (head coach) is a standup coach. The campus is amazing, and the traditions there were cool to learn about.
This month and going into the season, are there any visits you may take?
During the season, I might go to A&M. That is still unsure. I know I will be at the White Out game at Penn State (vs. Auburn). That is all that is planned right now.
James, thank you for your time today. Looking forward to seeing you in action with St. Joseph Prep this fall.
Yes, sir. Thank you.
Photo credit: Heard family; James Heard Jr.