Interview: Big Expectations Follow 2019 DE Kendall Wilkerson from Louisiana to California
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Watching Kentwood High School take the field during the 2016 season, it did not take long to find Kendall Wilkerson out on the field. The 6-5, 260 pound, defensive lineman was a terror against opposing Louisiana squads helping his team to a 9-5 record with a playoff run to the semifinals. Watching Wilkerson impose his will was no surprise after being a key part of Kentwood’s championship team in 2015 as a freshman. During the winter semester break, Wilkerson took his raw but budding talents to California now suiting up with Orange Lutheran High School. The change in scenery is drastic, the change in talent level is night and day, but the big expectations still carry with Wilkerson.
While the Kangaroos will miss their dominating talent in the trenches, the Lancers can certainly put Wilkerson’s skillset, size, and athleticism to good use. OLU is loaded with young but amazing talent setting up to take on some of the top teams not only in the state of California but in the nation. The Trinity League is stockpiled with top college prospects featuring teams like JSerra Catholic, Santa Margarita, Servite and end of 2016 season Top 5 nationally ranked MaxPreps teams in Mater Dei (No. 3) and St. John Bosco (No. 2).
Wilkerson has all the tools to step onto the field to be an immediate game changer for OLU. The primary challenge for the big man will be making the transition from Louisiana 1A competition to California’s toughest – a challenge Wilkerson is ready to tackle head-on. In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with the new California Class of 2019 prospect to get an overview on his sophomore season, transfer to Orange Lutheran, and off-season workouts.
Interview
Kendall, how did your sophomore season go with Kentwood?
“It went well. We went to the semifinals in the playoffs.”
How did your game improve last season?
“I feel like I performed well. I feel like I did my part for the team to help win games.”
What was the playoff run like for you going up against tougher teams along the way?
“We went to the championship my freshman year. It was fun to be back with my team trying to make a run for a second championship ring.”
When did you move to California?
“December 21.”
Do you like California?
“It is okay. I’m not used to it yet, but it is alright.”
How has the transfer gone for you so far?
“It is going good. The school is nice and the teachers, coaches, students, and my teammates are all very nice. The transfer has been all good there.”
How is spring ball going for you so far?
“I feel like spring ball is going well. We have to fill in some spots from last year but we are working hard.”
How will the Orange Lutheran coaches utilize your skills during the 2017 season?
“I’ll play defensive end. I’ll be an edge rusher.”
Are you playing any offense for OLU next season?
“It depends on where our offensive line is at that time. If they need me, I’ll play.”
Have you maxed out in the weight room this spring?
“Yes, I did. My bench was 270, my front squat was 305, my power clean was 240, and my deadlift was 405. We did not do deadlifts or power clean at my old school. I’m still working on that.”
Have you been to any camps so far this spring?
“No, sir.”
Do you have any plans to attend college camps this summer?
“I don’t know yet. I have to talk to my coaches about the camps coming up.”
Which colleges are showing recruiting interest in you?
“None so far. Coaches were not coming to Kentwood because it was a small school.”
What is your cumulative GPA?
“It is right around a 3.0, maybe a little lower.”
What is your favorite subject in school?
“I’d have to say English.”
What goals have you set for yourself for the off-season and your junior campaign?
“I feel like I need to work on my technique and get to the QB more. I did not get as many sacks last year because they had me playing inside. I’m an outside player. This year I plan on getting back to that point and getting sacks for my team. My other goals are to get offered and to get noticed by college coaches.”
A good season in the Trinity League and that will certainly happen. Kendall, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of spring ball.
“Thank you.”
Click link for Kendall Wilkerson’s Hudl highlight reel.
Please help keep RecruitingNewsGuru.com FREE!
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: recruitingnewsguru.com; Kendall Wilkerson (May 6, 2017).