Update Interview with 3-Star 2021 California WR/SS Vance Jefferson
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
That piercing wants and desires for Class of 2021 recruits throughout the state of California to take the field one last time can be felt through words and actions. The dire need to return to the gridiron is not all about recruiting, but also the feeling of responsibility to finish goals set walking off the field holding a trophy. That aspiration to be back on the gridiron for a season perhaps burns no brighter than with Poway receiver and strong safety Vance Jefferson. The 6-0, 190-pound, three-star student-athlete has remained dedicated to the game throughout the extended offseason ready to showcase his improving talents that has brought offers from teams like Arizona State and Colorado State while helping the Titans to a winning campaign a year ago.
*Click link for June 2020 RNG interview with Vance Jefferson
Interview
Vance, you are that versatile talent capable of doing just about anything asked of you at the skill positions. How have your offseason workouts gone overall preparing for that impact player role during the 2020 season?
They have gotten harder. I am working harder than I ever have. This is a big season for me. Despite all the speculation on the season, having it or not having it, I am working harder than ever. I have been running hills, working with trainers, and working with my friends that are working hard all trying to be the best that I can be.
Last we talked, you were focused on perfecting your route running. Update us, how is that coming along?
It has been great. My routes are the best they have ever been. I am doing things I was not able to do last year and things I was not aware I could. I am even more confident and feeling great with my knee.
Another big area for you was working on your speed. What have you been doing to increase your burst, agility, and breakaway top end speed?
I have been working with two trainers, they give me great work. A lot of leg work, strengthening my legs, and running hills a lot of hills helping my explosiveness.
Have you posted a 40-yard dash this offseason?
Yes, I ran a 4.64 unofficial.
When the 2020 season gets going, are you still planning on playing defense? If so, at which position?
I am playing safety, but I might move into the box. I have gotten bigger; my coaches might be able to use that to my advantage.
How are you setting yourself up for success on that side of the ball this winter?
A lot of drills. For me on defense, I learn by watching. Studying film is helping me be a ballhawk out there.
Another area of your high school success has been in the classroom. How well did you perform academically during the first semester of your senior year?
I did great. I had a 3.6 GPA (26 ACT). It was a good semester. It was hard to adjust at first (virtual learning), but once I adjusted I did really well.
Going into recruiting. Which schools are showing interest?
Boise State, Cal-Berkeley, Hawaii, a lot of MWC, and some Pac-12.
How many offers are you holding?
Five.
Jefferson’s Offer Sheet: Arizona State, Central Michigan, Colorado State, Holy Cross, and University of San Diego
Have you taken any unofficial visits lately?
When I was in Dallas, I went to Texas. But when I was in Texas, I was more focused on working out and getting better.
Are there any visits you may take coming up?
I will probably get out once I narrow my list down. I want to see some schools and see the campuses even if I don’t get to see the coaches. Seeing the schools is a huge thing.
Where are you in your process as a senior? Do you have a commitment date in mind or are you planning on waiting until the season gets going?
I will wait until the season; I am hoping for a season. Once the season gets going, I want to get my early film out as soon as possible. I hope my recruiting will jump.
When the time comes for you to make that big decision, what does the ideal fit at the next level look like for you?
I’m not big on a lot of things, education and coaching is what is most important to me. With coaching, I want to learn as much football as possible. My dream is the NFL, but the more I can learn and apply that the better player I will be. My goal is to apply all that coaching to be the best I can be which will lead to my success. I want a great relationship with my coaches.
Vance, great getting some more time in with you this offseason. Excited to see how the 2020 season goes for you coming up.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Jefferson family; Vance Jefferson
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