Interview: Speedy 2021 WR DJ Justice Preparing for Big Varsity Season with Cathedral Catholic

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

In every sport, the jump up a level in classification is always tough and takes an adjustment period, especially a freshman heading to California’s top Division-I level on the gridiron. One Class of 2021 talent ready to start making waves against top California talent during his sophomore season is wide receiver/defensive back DJ Justice. If his freshman season counts as a measuring stick of expectations, the Dons have a standout prospect in the making on their hands.

As is the case for most freshman and junior varsity squads across the country, exact stats on Justice’s 2017 season are not there to share. The best insight to give on what the Dons are bringing to the field this year, the Offensive Player of the Year from a freshman team that went undefeated and was the best freshman squad in San Diego County. Another insight, Justice was a late season call-up to the varsity level snagging two passes for 17 yards playing the regular season finale through the playoffs on varsity. Watching Justice’s highlight reel, his athleticism jumps out immediately as a playmaking receiver. Worth noting that the 6-0, 165 pound, rising star can already dunk.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Justice to learn more about his freshman season and how he is preparing for varsity football in 2018.

Interview

DJ, how did your freshman season go overall?

“It was great. The beginning was kind of slow. We have a running offense. But, the coaches started to believe in me towards the end of the season. During the first three games of the season I was targeted about twice a game on average. Towards the end of the season, I was targeted about 10 times per game. As a team, we did not lose a game and were the No. 1 freshman team in the county.”

You lined up at receiver and as a defensive back last year, between the two positions, which do you like best?

“I like receiver best. I am more of a threat at receiver. At cornerback, I’m not bad at it, but that is a secondary position for me.”

What were some of the aspects of the game you learned last year as a receiver that helped improve your understanding of the game?

“Definitely not running into a linebacker on slant routes. I learned to sit on my routes a little to avoid taking big hits. I learned how to get off the line. My brother showed me how to do that before the season started. I had no clue. All that helped me have a greater understanding of the game.”

How did your game improve fundamentally last year as a receiver?

“Since I played corner, I knew what the secondary would do on certain coverages. I could change my routes to get open. It is easier to get open when you know where they will be.”

Did you get any practice time or game snaps in with the varsity last season?

“Yes. The first game before the playoffs, we went against my brother at St. Augustine. We call it “The Holy Bowl” – two Catholic schools playing each other. I had two snaps and two catches for 17 yards. I played on varsity throughout the playoffs too.”

Nice. How are you preparing for your sophomore season?

“I’m doing a lot of lifting. I have gained 10 pounds already. Every day expect for 7v7 days, I’m running routes working on improving my game.”

Are you planning to play on both sides of the ball in 2018 with the Dons?

“I know I will play receiver next year. Our defensive coordinator has talked to me about playing corner. I’m not sure yet if I will play corner or not this year.”

Are you playing 7v7 ball?

“I am. I am playing with Premium Legend 2021 team.”

How is that helping you push your game forward?

“They are showing me a lot about what it takes to play receiver. They are showing me easier ways to get off the line. That has helped me a bunch. I’m learning to keep my shoulders down coming off the line so I can avoid jams. In general, it helps me more with my routes. With 7v7 ball, I’m not worried about getting hit, I’m just worried about getting open.”

It is really early for you in the process but are any schools showing recruiting interest in you?

“Montana came to our school and asked about me.”

Do you have any college camps set or are you eyeing any potential college camps?

“No. Not yet. I may set them soon. I was invited to camp in July in Canton (OH). I plan on attending that camp.”

Are you competing at any national camps and/or combines?

“As of right now, I will be competing at the Polynesian combine in April in Las Vegas.”

What is your favorite subject in school?

“Biology. I love learning about DNA. I find that really cool.”

Is there a next level player you watch to learn more about the game?

“I have watched Amon-Ra St. Brown (2018 USC signee). We are family friends with the St. Brown’s. I have learned a lot by watching him play. I try to be the best receiver I can be. I don’t model my game after others.”

Last question. What offseason goals have you set for yourself?

“I want to weigh 175 pounds by the start of next season. I only have 10 more pounds to go. I also want to have a better 40-yard dash time.”

DJ, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your offseason workouts.

“Thank you.”

Please help keep RecruitingNewsGuru.com a national site aiding in bringing exposure to amazing student-athletes!

If RNG has helped you, a friend, or a family member through an article, video, or stylized interview with our countless hours of free promotion for high school, junior college, and college athletes – please donate. Any amount is appreciated!

Photo credit: Justice family via Flickr; No. 1 DJ Justice takes the field (2017)