Interview: Speedy 2021 Colorado RB/KR Jaiveon Kendrick is a Game Changer
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
In all facets of life, especially in sports, statistics can be misleading and not tell the entire story. For Class of 2021 Palmer High School running back Jaiveon Kendrick, his production on the field only tells part of the story of a dynamic back with game changing skills, and college programs are missing out – so far.
Being the key offensive player on a 1-9 team is never easy, but somehow Kendrick was able to make it look effortless. Had Kendrick carried the rock a typical season’s load at 150 times, he would have been a 1,300-yard rusher. As is, through stats posted in eight games, Kendrick rolled for 582 yards on 67 totes with six trips into the end zone, all team-highs. Filling out his talents as an all-purpose back, Kendrick also secured 33 passes for 495 yards posting five more scores on the board, second best receiving numbers for the Terrors.
Another area that sets the 6-0, 190-pound, back ahead of his peer group is his blazing speed. Kendrick has posted two hand-timed 40-yard dashes in the 4.4-range, and that physical talent was on full display as a kick returner scorching 4A Colorado squads for 353 yards on seven attempts with two more touchdowns.
To date, the Colorado Springs area native is receiving interest from Wisconsin, Ohio State, UCLA, Pitt, Utah, CU-Boulder, and Colorado State. To talk about his effective ways on the gridiron and offseason workouts ahead of a big senior season, Kendrick stepped into the RNG Lab for a detailed Q&A interview.
Interview
Jaiveon, your speed is a big part of your ability to impact games. What are you doing on the field to compliment your speed as a playmaker?
“I try to keep on my toes. We had a young line last season; I don’t always get what I wanted, but I stayed vigilant and was ready for anything. Even before I touch the ball and when I get it, I am scanning the field looking at the defense. My patience and trying to be as quick as possible helps me make plays.”
How fast are you?
“My best 40 is 4.4. In track, our track season was cancelled, but at the end of last year I was at a 10.9 in the 100. In the 200, I ran 21.7 or 21.6.”
Nice. The 4.4, where did you run that?
“At an SDA camp. Then I ran a 4.5 right after the 4.4. At school, I also ran a 4.4.”
What offensive set were you guys running last season?
“Mainly inside zone, we tried to run inside and outside, but we fit better on the inside.”
How were the coaches getting the rock in your hands?
“They did not want to give it to me too much – I think the most carries I had was nine in a game. When we needed a big play or we needed a first down I came into the game. The main route I was getting the ball was in the flat, and they would toss it to me. I did some screen passes off of blitzes. I never had a pitch play or anything like that.”
Where did you see the biggest improvements in your game in 2019?
“The biggest improvement was my strength and patience. I had patience before, but not like this year. Watching Le’veon Bell’s highlights, he is patient. I would put that into my game, my strength too. During my sophomore year I was tackled around my legs a lot, but I have built that up to break tackles.”
This offseason, what has been the focus of your position workouts?
“Now that I know what I am capable of, my footspeed, jukes, cuts, and my overall strength. Those are key to being a good running back plus my field vision. I take everyday life into my training visualizing things.”
I understand what you mean, but no stiff-arms in the grocery store going down the aisle. (he laughs) When the 2020 season gets going, where all will we see you?
“At running back and receiver, and I will start playing more defense.”
At which position on defense?
“Safety or corner.”
Are you excited about playing defense this season?
“Yes. I am really excited. It is fun. You get to hit people. I like to make the big plays to put us back on offense so I can do my real thing and run the ball. I want to help my team anyway I can. Wherever they put me I will go.”
What have you been doing this spring to keep in shape?
“I try to go outside for workouts and go with my friends for team bonding. I have a job; at least three times a week I am working out and I do pushups at the house.”
If the college camps happen this summer, are there any that you are eyeing?
“If they happen, I am planning on it. A friend told me about a Georgia camp he can get me into, and I have coaches on Twitter texting me about different camps.”
When you go to college, what are you looking at as a potential major?
“I want to major in physical therapy. I am looking for programs that can help me outside of football; I am not all about sports.”
If you could talk to every college football coach out there telling them one thing about yourself, what would you tell them?
“I am a fun guy. Everyone tells me I have an outgoing and glowing personality. On the field, I am having fun but will push you to be better. With football, we are a family. If you need help, I am here. If you ask me to push you, I got you. And it does not have to be about football. In life, I am here for you too. I am here for players, coaches, and all my loved ones. I am an outgoing guy.”
Jaiveon, thanks for your time today and good luck with your workouts this summer until we talk again.
“Thank you.”
Photo credits: Colorado Springs Gazette; No. 26 Jaiveon Kendrick