Kansas: Interview with Pittsburg Class of 2017 TE/DE Trevor Kent

Written by Charlie Beuttel

Twitter: @charlie_cds3

The Pittsburg Purple Dragons had a great season in 2015 winning their first eight games and finished the season with an impressive 9-2 record. The Purple Dragons also advanced to the second round of the playoffs where they fell 56-21 to eventual state champion, Mill Valley.

During the season, Pittsburg scored a whopping 41 points a game and only gave up on average 13 points. One player who spent time on both sides of the ball was junior Trevor Kent who lined up at tight end and defensive end.

On the defensive side of the ball, Kent had 40 total tackles, 12 quarterback hurries, three sacks, two forced fumbles, two pass deflections and two blocked field goals. On offense, the junior star had one reception for 36 yards, one touchdown, and 30 pancake blocks. After the season, the 6’5”, 250 pound, star won several individual honors including be named first team All-Area for both positions.

The Class of 2017 recruit already has offers from six schools including Kansas, Northwestern, and Michigan. There is also several schools including Stanford and Florida State that showing interest in him.

Kent also works hard in the classroom where he has a 3.6 GPA and plans on studying business in college.

In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I sat down with Trevor to talk about his career at Pittsburg and his recruiting process.

Interview

Trevor, what are your thoughts on the 2015 season?

“I thought it went really well. I started maturing into my body. It was a big season. Schools took notice of my junior year. We were looking at having a rebuilding year but it turned out to be a big year for us.”

What are your thoughts on your individual performance in your junior season?

“It was a lot different from my sophomore and freshman year. I gained 25 pounds. I was able dominate everyone. Both sides of the ball went well. I play pretty physical. That’s the type of player I am.”

What are your strengths on the football field?

“I’m football smart. I’m aware and have a high IQ and football intelligence. I know what I need to do depending on the situations. I’m able to out think my opponents.”

Did you receive any individual honors?

“First team All-state non-senior tight end, first team All-League tight end, first team All-Area tight end, and first team All-Area defensive end.”

What was your most memorable moment?

“Game 8 against Blue Valley West, people expected us to win by a little or lose but we blew them out. It was a fun game for our team. We showed people what we were capable of doing.”

How many offers do you currently?

“Northwestern, Iowa State, Kansas, Kansas State, Missouri, and Michigan.”

Are there any schools that have shown you interest but have not offered you?

“Indiana, Minnesota, Florida State, Stanford, Oregon, and Nebraska.”

Have you gone on any visits?

“Kansas State.”

Do you have any more visits planned?

This weekend I’m going to Iowa State. In March I’m going to Northwestern. I will also be at the Missouri Junior Day on Feb. 27, and then Kansas’ Junior Day next month.”

How did your Kansas State visit go?

“I was really impressed. I didn’t know too much about them but when I got to meet everyone and see everything I was really impressed. I loved it. They’re recruiting me to be a defensive end.”

Will you attend any camps this summers?

“I haven’t decided on what camps yet.”

What do you like most about playing football?

“The team aspect and then being physical. I love to hit people. I love the physical aspect.”

Who has had the biggest impact on your football career?

My dad, Clayton Kent. He played defensive end at Pittsburg State. I want to follow in his footsteps and play college football.”

What do you like to play more tight end or defensive end?

“I’m open to both. I love both the same. Whatever position will get me more on the field. It doesn’t make any difference to me.”

What is your current GPA?

“3.6.”

What do you want to study in college?

“Business.”

Thank you for your time and good luck in your senior season.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: Kansas-sports.com; Pittsburg TE/DE Trevor Kent

Photo credit: Kansas-sports.com; Pittsburg TE/DE Trevor Kent at an Arkansas camp