Update Interview with 8-Offer 3-Star 2021 California WR Jessie Campbell
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
When Mater Dei Catholic dropped back to pass during the 2019 season, the pigskin was being well-distributed among seven different receivers by quarterback Trevor Appleman. The Crusaders’ passing attack covered over 2,300 yards with Class of 2021 target Jessie Campbell emerging as a go-to playmaker. The 6-2, 180-pound, receiver snagged 21 passes for 403 with nine touchdowns scored while pulling double-duty on defense with 15 stops recorded. The productivity and upside for Campbell has brought about three-star recruiting status with eight offers dropped thus far. With another big season ahead as a top receiver in California, expect those offers to collect a whole lot more friends once the 2020 schedule begins.
In an RNG first-look interview, Campbell goes in-depth on his talents on the gridiron with an overview on his recruiting process.
Interview
Jessie, correct me if I am wrong but there is a confidence and swagger about your game that comes through in how you play – you perform is if you are one of if not the best player on the field at any given time; am I right?
(Laughs) Yes, sir, always. It is good to have that confidence on the field. I have that same mindset going into every game that I am the best person on the field. My dad has taught me to have that mindset to be unstoppable and un-guardable.
One of the payoffs of that mental attribute is a no fear approach to what you do, and that is going across the middle or going up high exposing yourself to defensive backs. What gets you into that mindset when you take the field?
Honestly, what gets me into that mindset is playing with a chip on my shoulder. I can’t be scared of anyone out there. I have to run my routes with no fear and with the mindset to score every time I touch the ball. That is always something good to have in your head.
What were some of the routes you were running last season?
Some of the routes last season were slants, fades, posts, post-comebacks, those were the main routes. Slants and fades were the main touchdown routes.
Once the season ended, what did you feel were the strengths to your overall game?
My overall strengths were my jumping abilities, my hands, and my speed.
Which positions are you taking on in 2020?
I will be lining up on offense, special teams, and I might play some defense as well. Mainly, I will be on offense and special teams at punt and kick return.
What have you been working on with the small details to your game this offseason?
The small details that I have been working on is the IQ part. I watch film every day on myself and of my favorite players. For me, I want to have a bigger impact on my senior season. When I watch, I look to see where I need to get better at this part of my game or at this assignment. I need to study more.
Is fellow 2021 quarterback Trevor Appelman returning for this season?
Yes, sir.
How have you worked with your QB to take your collective games to an elite level?
Trevor and I always workout with each other. He is an amazing quarterback, has a strong arm and can sit in the pocket making those tough throws. He is one to look out for this season. On the field, we are running routes all the time. We hit each other up almost every single day. He is dedicated to his craft; that will have a major impact on our senior season.
With the California season pushed until January 2021, what goals have you set for yourself over the fall and winter months in preparation for your senior season?
The first goal I have is to get my 40 time to a 4.3. I run a 4.47. My goal is to get a 4.39. I also want to get up to 185 pounds. Right now, I am at 180. I want to add five pounds of muscle with weight training and eating the right things. The goal is to get bigger, stronger, and faster.
This offseason I will continue working on my routes, and being more precise with my routes. There are guys at the next level that are as fast, as big, and as strong. To be successful, it is about the little details. How precise are your routes and are they at the right depth? Those are the main things I will be working on until the season starts.
Let’s jump back to your 40 time. Where did you drop that 4.47?
With one of my trainers. He has a laser timer. I wanted to test my 40 time. My speed was one questionable thing college coaches had about me. They thought I was not as fast as I am. I went out there, I trained on speed every day and I ran a 4.47. That boosted my recruiting. I have to keep working hard, stay the course, and stay humble through this process.
Sticking with that, let’s talk recruiting. Which schools are showing interest ahead of your senior season?
Cal-Poly, Montana State, Fresno State, Boise State, San Jose State, Hawaii, San Diego State, Sacramento State, Washington State, Nevada, and Northern Arizona.
Nice. How many offers are you holding?
Eight.
Which program was the last to offer?
Holy Cross.
Campbell’s Offer Sheet: Air Force, Army, Holy Cross, Idaho, Morgan State, New Mexico, Southern Utah, and William & Mary
Have you taken any virtual visits this offseason?
Yes. I have taken virtual visits with Army, Air Force, and Idaho.
When the campuses open back up for the real thing, are there any planned trips ahead for you official or unofficial?
Yes, I’d like to visit San Diego State and some Pac-12 schools like Oregon State, Cal, and Washington State on unofficial visits. The official visits planned are to Army, Air Force, and New Mexico as soon as the virus clears up or the NCAA says it is okay.
Jessie, it was a lot of fun going over your game and recruiting process today. Thanks for your time and good luck with your workouts this offseason.
Thank you.
Photo credit: Campbell family; Jessie Campbell