Interview: 2019 ATH Jason Heller is Instant Offense for Westlake High School

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

Need a play, just add “instant offense” a.k.a. Class of 2019 athlete Jason Heller. Heller proved his all-purpose nature during his junior season rushing 22 times for 185 yards with a score while pulling down 41 passes for 634 yards with five scores going up on the board. His senior year with Westlake has been a big leap forward with an estimated 950 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns along with 300 yards on the ground and four more scores posted. As Heller lights up opposing California defenses, the heat on the recruiting trail is picking up for the 5-8, 175-pound, tough as nails talent.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Heller covering his senior season with insight on his recruiting process to date that includes a mix of offers, walk-on offers, and growing interest sure to lead to more scholarship overtures being extended.

Interview

Jason, to no surprise, you had another big season filling in the stat sheet as an all-purpose talent. Between catching the ball and running the ball out of the backfield, which do you like most?

“I try to put myself in the best position for the team. Whatever my coach needs me to do, I do it and fit the need, and that is where I will play. I value my bond with my coach. I want to ball out for the team. I do like playing running back and I am comfortable behind the line. Playing receiver is huge for me, I am being recruited as a slot.”

What motivates you as a running back?

“Nathan Brooks was our running back last year, he was one of the best I have ever seen. I try to be like him. After watching his success, I am filling in the shoes of his legacy and all the other guys who have played the position before me.”

How did your game improve this season as a ball carrier?

“From a running back’s perspective, I am making the right reads and cuts. I am following whoever is pulling and looking for my opening. With my pass blocking, I am staying low and staying in the pocket to protect my quarterback.”

What about as a receiver?

“For our head coach, Coach (Tim) Kirksey, blocking is important. The one thing he wants me to do is block. He always says, no block, no rock.” That is the first I focus on as a receiver. Track got me faster last year. My hips and explosion has improved. I have improved my lateral movement and I am moving in space better. I am technically sound and have improved my football IQ; I feel it is really high. I know coverages well and I know what defenses are doing to try to stop me.”

Your reel shows of your speed. What is your best 40-yard dash time?

“My best is a 4.49 I ran at school.”

The Warriors played some of the best teams in southern California this season, of all the teams played, which game was your best?

“Stats wise, the first game of the season against Sierra Canyon was my best. I had four total touchdowns; three receiving and one rushing. The Moorpark game was a memorable moment for me. I broke Nelson Spruce’s (Chargers) single-game receiving record with 284 receiving yards. I felt proud. It feels great to compare myself to him.”

The Warriors slugged it out with No. 19 nationally ranked Oaks Christian (10-0) giving them a 13-7 scare in the regular season finale. As a player in the middle of it all, how did the game go and what was it like?

“It did not feel like we lost. The defense, they played great. They stepped it up the most. They are the biggest part of what we have been doing this season.”

You guys get Los Alamitos in the opening round of the playoffs on Friday night. How will they challenge you guys?

“They are a fast-paced team. The running back position will be vital. Their defensive line is not huge, we have a chance to do well against their front. We have been producing against top teams all season. The work during the season should help in the playoffs.”

Turning to recruiting, which schools are showing recruiting interest in you?

“I am receiving interest from Cal-Davis, Cal-Poly, Idaho, Oregon State, Louisville, Colorado State, Arizona, Eastern Washington, Northern Arizona, and Southern Utah.”

Which schools have offered you?

“I have offers from La Verne, Humboldt State – they were my first offer, and I have walk-on offers from Washington, Ohio, UCLA, and Syracuse.”

Nice. Have you taken any visits?

“Yes. I have visited Colorado State for a Junior Day, UC-Davis, Cal-Poly, and San Jose State.”

Do you have any planned visits upcoming?

“We’ll see with the offers that come in after the season. If it works out, I would love to see Southern Utah, Northern Arizona, and Oregon State.”

Jason, thanks for your time today and good luck in the playoffs.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: Silva Shootz; Jason Heller touchdown