Interview: 3-Star 2021 California WR Dayjiohn Wheeler Talks Offers and Visits

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

One could argue that California’s Inland Empire might be the richest recruiting grounds for college football coaches in-state and one of the best in the nation. Each year, the athletes and players coming out of the area fill up recruiting ranking charts from 5-star to 3-star talents working on their craft before college football glory. One player carrying the tradition forward is Dayjiohn Wheeler. Wheeler spent his 2018 season on Roosevelt High School’s junior varsity squad, but has caught the attention of college coaches across the nation this spring seeing his offer sheet fill quickly with six schools seeking to have him on their campus as part of the 2021 class. For now, Wheeler is an emerging receiver towering over corners and safeties at 6-foot 5-inches and tipping the scales at 223 pounds. His junior season could add offers at other positions seeing him add roles on defense at safety and defensive end. The future is his to seize.

In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with one of the fastest rising stars in California’s 2021 class to learn more about his play on the field and early recruiting process.

Interview

Dayjiohn, how did the 2018 season play out for you on the field?

“It was a good season. I got noticed and I got my grades straight. Everything is going well.”

You lined up on the outside for the Mustangs junior varsity last season, what were some of the routes the coaching staff used to get you the ball?

“They used slants, fades, hitches, routes that use my body. I am good at using my body and fighting through tackles. I am a physical receiver.”

How did your overall game show improvement from the start of the 2018 season to the end?

“My footwork improved a lot. Jalen Johnson, an Arizona signee (2019), he stayed on me about improving my overall game. He is one of the fastest guys in California. I was slower then, I run a 4.6 now.”

What do you feel are the strengths to your game as a receiver?

“My physicality is a strength. I am not scared to go get the ball. Off the line, I will not let you get your hands on me. Once I beat you, it is over. I win the route.”

During your freshman season, where all did you line up on the field?

“During my freshman season I played safety and receiver.”

Where all on the field might we see you in 2019?

“I will be at receiver and weak safety, and defensive end. I might play some tight end too.”

Are you excited about your return to defense and the roles you are taking on?

“Yes. A lot of schools want to see me on defense. I want to help my team win. Anything I can do to help my team win I will do it.”

Which areas of your game have you focused on with your workouts this spring?

“My speed, my backpedaling, and I just started playing defensive end – I am learning that. I am becoming good at it.”

What are your goals over the summer months?

“My goals are to get stronger and quicker.”

Are you going to any college camps upcoming?

“Yes. I am going to a Redlands camp, La Verne, and Coach (Chip) Kelly wants me at a UCLA camp. USC’s offensive coordinator, Coach (Graham) Harrell, wants me at their camp too. I am looking at some out of state camps like Washington, Oregon, and maybe Utah.”

Which schools are showing interest in you?

“I am receiving interest from Georgia, UCLA, USC, Utah, Oregon, and Florida State.”

How many offers do you have now?

“I have six offers.”

Wheeler’s Offer Sheet (6): Indiana, LSU, Miami, Syracuse, West Virginia, and Wyoming

This spring has been a big one for you receiving a lot of offers. What has the attention received in offers been like for you?

“Humbling. I am taking it in and not being cocky. I am appreciating everything. Not everyone gets this opportunity.”

Well said. Have you visited any schools this offseason?

“I visited UCLA.”

How did the UCLA visit go?

“It was really good. I have a good bond with Coach (Ethan) Young (player personnel). We text a lot.”

Are there any schools you may visit upcoming?

“Yes. UCLA and USC this week. After that, I may visit Oregon and Utah.”

Since this visit will be your first to USC, what has you excited about visiting the Trojans?

“Chase Williams (WR from Roosevelt) goes there. He is going to show me around the school. I am excited for the visit.”

When you are not doing a sports or football related activity, what do you do for fun?

“I like to hang out with my friends.”

Growing up, who have been some of your favorite NFL players?

“My all-time favorites are Tom Brady and Randy Moss. I am a Patriots fan.”

Dayjiohn, it was great speaking with you today and learning more about your play on the field. Wishing you success with your visits this week.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Wheeler family; Dayjiohn Wheeler