Interview: 2020 ATH Justin Brewer Makes Successful Move from Receiver to Outside Linebacker for La Habra

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

Talented athletes make tough transitions look easy, and that is what Justin Simpson-Brewer did for La Habra High School during the 2018 season. After playing receiver during his sophomore campaign, he made the move to outside linebacker coming up with 80 tackles, 32 solo, two tackles for a loss, a sack, four QB hurries and an interception during the Highlanders 7-4 run into the playoffs. The move has been successful in more ways than one for the 6-2, 200-pound, emerging defender, college coaches are taking notice.

In an RNG catch-up interview, Brewer covers his junior season playing outside linebacker with an update on his new recruiting interests.

Interview

Justin, you were a big part of La Habra’s defense this year playing an outside linebacker hybrid role within the defense. Where all did you line up and what were your responsibilities within the scheme?

“In our scheme my job is to read the tackle or the tight end against the run. Depending on the coverage, I would play man-to-man, reroute receivers and cover the slant on passing plays. My job is always to make the play.”

How did your game improve against the run this year?

“I improved a lot against the run this season. Once I started honing in on their hip, my tackling got a lot stronger.”

What about against the pass, how did that part of your game get better?

“Against the pass, this was my first year playing linebacker, last year I was a receiver. I got better against the pass through practice. I got better at turning my head when I was running and better at reading the QB as I dropped. My cover skills got better guarding receivers and my press coverage improved.”

Which game this season was your best?

“I’d say my best game was against Calabasas.”

What did you do well in that game to make it your best?

“In that game, I had nine tackles and I caught a touchdown pass playing tight end.”

Now that the Highlanders are in offseason mode, what will be the focus of your workouts?

“My goals are to work mostly working on speed and on getting stronger.”

It may be too early, but are you staying in your current role within the defense for your senior year or are you moving to a different spot?

“I will stay in my current role as an outside linebacker.”

With the new role as linebacker this year, have you picked up any new recruiting interest?

“Yes. I am receiving interest from Columbia, Cal, and Northern Arizona.”

Nice. Do you have any planned visits you may take?

“I may take visits to Cal, Columbia, and Northern Arizona.”

Are you going to play 7v7 ball this spring?

“Yes. I am playing 7v7 with ProWay.”

Justin, thanks for your time today and good luck with your offseason workouts.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: Brewer family; Justin Brewer

Action photo: Luna Ink Photography; No. 31 Justin Brewer