Interview: Two-Way 2019 Nevada ATH Jordan Blakely Breaks Down Offseason Workouts

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

When watching Foothill High School on the field during the 2017 season, one could not escape the game without hearing Class of 2019 two-way rising talent Jordan Blakely’s name repeatedly. The 6-2, 183-pound, athlete was a difference maker for the Falcons on offense pulling in 27 passes for 395 yards with four trips into the end zone and even carried the rock seven times for 42 more yards. On defense, Blakely shinned at safety coming up with 54 tackles, 29 solo, four forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, four interceptions, and one blocked field goal earning All-Southeast second team honors at both receiver and safety. All that positive noise coming out of the Henderson area is drawing next level recruiting attention.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with the overlooked Nevada product after Blakely competed at the Nike Opening Regional in Las Vegas to learn more about his game and recruiting process.

Interview

Jordan, what was the biggest difference in your game from the end of your sophomore year to the end of your junior season on the defensive side of the ball?

“During my sophomore year I did not play defense. I only played receiver during my sophomore year. I was not the biggest kid at that time. I was working on getting bigger for the varsity level. Playing defense last season really helped me; it helped me get an offer from Air Force. Playing defense last season helped me show my full potential on the field.”

Between offense and defense, which side of the ball is your favorite to play?

“Defense is my favorite to play.”

You worked to earn that athlete label making a big impact on offense during your junior year, how did your overall game improve as a receiver last season?

“It improved a lot. My sophomore year, that was my first year playing receiver full-time. I worked hard on improving overall; my catching, route running, agility, and blocking all improved.”

What are the strengths of your game as a safety?

“My tackling skills – I can lay the boom. I am a ballhawk – it helps being a receiver. I am good at forcing turnovers. I am always around the ball. I am a leader on the field. I am always pumping everyone up and keeping them in the game.”

What are you working on this offseason as a receiver and defensive back?

“Being smarter. This year I am watching more film. I am studying my opponent even more than last season. It is a priority to know their weaknesses and strengths. I’ve worked on getting stronger, I have done well with that, and I am aiming for 190 pounds by the start of the season. I am always working on my speed and agility.”

Are you going to play any other positions next season to push that athlete label even further?

“I might play some tailback and I will be on punt and kick return. If there is a way I can help the team get better, I will play that position.”

How did the Nike Las Vegas regional go for you?

“It went very well. There was some great competition out there, I felt I was right there with them. The drills went well and the one-on-ones went well. I had three pass breakups, a pick, and there were no catches on me in six reps. I proved that I am a top prospect out there.”

What is your best 40-yard dash time you’ve posted this offseason?

“My best 40 is a 4.65.”

Are you going to any college camps this summer?

“I will attend a camp in California with Oregon, Washington State and Utah there. There is a Whittier camp with Arizona State and Boise State I am planning on attending. On July 27, I am going to a Nevada camp and on June 23 I am attending an Air Force camp. Our team is going to Southern Utah for a full-padded camp this summer as well.”

Which schools are showing recruiting interest in you?

“Hawaii, Nevada, UNLV, and Navy are all showing interest.”

Which schools have come by Foothill to meet you in-person or watch you workout this spring?

“Utah, San Diego State, UNLV, Air Force, Nevada, Columbia, Northern Arizona, Southern Utah, and BYU have all come by school this offseason.”

From talking to you on Saturday I know you have an offer; which school has offered you?

“Air Force.”

Do you have any planned visits coming up separate from camps you may attend?

“On June 23, before the Air Force I will unofficial visit the school. My coach is taking me to Wyoming this summer and I am trying to visit UNLV soon.”

Do you compete in other sports for Foothill?

“Track.”

Which events?

“I compete in the 100, 200, 400, 4×2, and 4×1.”

Wow. That’s a lot. Of the individuals, which is your best event?

“The 400. I qualified for that event during my first meet. My best event this year is the 200.”

What is your best time in the 200?

“My best time in the 200 is 22.84.”

Last question. If you could communicate to every college coach in the country at one time about yourself as a student-athlete, what would you tell them?

“I would tell them that I’m a hard worker with a lot of passion for the sport. I take it serious. My dream is going to the NFL, I truly believe I will make it. I put myself in the best situations so I can pursue my dream. As a student, school comes first. I put the work in there; I work my butt off. I feel coaches would be lucky to have me on their team. I bring people up; I don’t put people down. Being a teammate is important to me. I am an impactful person on and off the field.”

Jordan, thanks for your time today and good luck with all the upcoming camps.

“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: recruitingnewsguru.com; Jordan Blakely at the Nike Opening Regional in Las Vegas