One to Watch Interview with 2024 California WR Jason Harris

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

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In any sport, it is not where one begins but how they finish; and the thought especially holds true for underclassmen getting early varsity reps on the gridiron. After an extensive offseason of positional training and workouts, Class of 2024 receiver Jason Harris put himself in position to compete against top high school football players during California’s 7v7 season this winter. The invaluable live action 7v7 reps against varsity competition with Rharebreed has helped pave a path for him this spring getting time in on the varsity field with Rancho Cucamonga High School.

In an RNG first-look interview, Harris stopped by the Lab covering ground on his offseason workouts and how the 7v7 season has helped him get on the field as a freshman this spring.

Interview

Jason, there is a great opportunity for you this spring with Rancho Cucamonga getting early varsity action in to help springboard your career forward. How have you taken on this opportunity to learn and adapt to the game more quickly than other Class of 2024 players?

I have adapted well to the high school game. There are seniors and mentors that I have on my team that are helping me learn a lot. I am taking a lot of knowledge from them and applying it on the field. Coach Rob Bourne, I have learned a lot from him and applying what he has taught me to my game.

What offensive scheme are the Cougars running?

We run a spread formation, 11 and 10 personnel, trips, and bunches.

What are some of the routes within the scheme are you running?

I run a lot of option routes. In our offense, it is for me to figure out the defense. I run curls or outs depending on how the defense lines up and posts, seams, and stuff like that.

Through the extended offseason, how did you prepare for this role with a focus on your skills as a receiver?

This offseason I was focused on getting separation from defense backs, my catching, and focusing on the basic skills of being a receiver – my route running, catching, my releases, and speed. Speed for me is a lot, especially as a little guy. My speed, that is my advantage over the big guys.

Did you play 7v7 this winter before the season began?

Yes, sir. I played with Rharebreed.

How did playing 7v7 with Rharebreed help improve your game as a receiver?

It improved my game drastically. Knowing what to do against certain schemes helped me a lot and slowed down the game. Playing against 18-year-olds helped me a lot.

Did you get some tournaments in with Rharebreed?

Yes, sir. The first and second tournaments we lost in the second round (after pool play), our team played really well. I feel like we could have won all of them. The last tournament we went 3-0 and lost in the first round.

How did you do in those tournaments?

I feel like I did well. (QB) Rahim Wright targeted me a lot. We built a great connection during the season.

With your speed being key, what were you doing to improve upon your speed and agility?

I was running hills in my backyard that I run a lot, and do that pretty much every morning. I went to Coach Rob’s facility to get on his speed treadmill and I pulled weighted sleds with him too.

Stepping onto the varsity field for your first couple of practices, how did you have to adjust to all that was going on around you?

At first it was a lot, but I took the time when I was out there to adjust. Having peers and mentors out there helps. One of my receiver friends, Jonah Dawson, we help each other. Listening to my coaches has helped me.

Being that underclassman, what kind of playing time are you receiving so far?

I am getting lots of plays. I am starting on 10 personnel and rotating in on 11 personnel. This season, I am getting a lot of reps.

In the opener, you guys took down Aquinas 18-6, who do you play next?

I think we play Chino Hills at home.

What goals have you set for yourself for the season?

I want to accomplish getting some catches; I will be grateful for that. And maybe get a kick return. It doesn’t have to be for a touchdown. Just get my feet wet and learning more are my goals. I love the game, it doesn’t matter, I just want to contribute. Whatever happens, I will be grateful for.

Jason, keep up the hard work this spring. I hope you get more game and practice reps further preparing you for your sophomore season.

Thank you, sir.

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Photo credit: Harris family; Jason Harris