Interview: 3-Star 2021 CB Zamajay Duncan Covers Transfer and Recruiting Visits

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

One can split hairs about the most difficult high school football schedule last season, regardless, JSerra Catholic had one of the most challenging in the nation. In addition to the Trinity League schedule that included national champs St. John Bosco and the No. 2 team in the nation, Mater Dei, every other non-conference game was against a team highly ranked within their own state spanning Utah, Georgia, New Jersey, and California. Through all the showdowns against five-, four-, and three-star recruits, Class of 2021 three-star cornerback Zamajay Duncan (5-10, 180) proved to be one of the best of the best in his peer group.

Going against quarterbacks slated to throw the rock for Alabama and Clemson while running around the field against guys going to Georgia, Arizona State, Oregon, UCLA, and the likes, as a corner in Southern California you either sink or swim. For Duncan, he was doing backstrokes showing his shutdown abilities. Despite covering the other team’s top receivers more times than not, he wasn’t tested often limiting his stat line to 28 tackles, five pass breakups, and one forced fumble. But the cover skills on routes going no where because of the shadow of No. 44 were still showcased. Those abilities on display have earned five offers for Duncan with more programs taking an interest.

Suiting up for a new team in 2020, Huntington Beach High School, and with upcoming visits planned to Arizona State and Boise State, Duncan and I had a lot to talk about in another in-depth interview.

Interview

Zamajay, in addition to all the tough teams in the Trinity League, the Lions had a really difficult non-conference schedule taking on the likes of East (UT), St. Joseph (NJ), Bishop Amat (CA), Milton (GA), and Calabasas (CA). Going against all that top talent, how did the 2019 season go for you overall?

“Personally, it was pretty good. I learned a lot and improved a lot.”

What was the base defense for JSerra last season?

“3-4.”

Which coverages were you guys executing?

“Mainly Cover 2 and Cover 3; we were a big zone team. I will say, against Calabasas, we went man. I was following their best player.”

Of all the games played, which did you turn in your top performance?

“I’d say either Bishop Amat or Calabasas.”

Going against Calabasas, what did you do well to make that your best game?

“I went against (4-star) Jermaine Burton (Georgia). I was trailing him all game. I studied him so much, I was very prepared for that game.”

Jermaine Burton was an amazing high school receiver. For you, what was it like to go against him in a game?

“Burton, I played against him my sophomore year; I picked them off. We developed a good friendship from there.”

Which areas of your game showed the biggest improvements in 2019?

“The things that improved the most were my eyes, footwork, and confidence at corner – takes a lot of confidence to play cornerback at a high level.”

This offseason you transferred to Huntington Beach, what all will you be doing on the field for the new team in 2020?

“I’m still playing corner, but I will also be on offense as a top receiver. This should be a big year for me.”

What are you working on this offseason?

“This offseason I am putting in so much into improving my craft. I am lifting weights and working hard getting ready for my senior year. On offense, I am working on my routes and my hands.”

Are you going to any national and/or college camps this offseason?

“Yes. I am going to a Rivals camp on Sunday. There are a few college camps I am thinking about; Arizona State and Columbia – they invited me to a camp. I am trying to get out there for that.”

Time to cover recruiting. Which schools are showing interest?

“Arizona is showing a lot, Nevada some, and Columbia some.”

Which schools have offered?

“Boise State, Arizona State, Washington State, Oklahoma, and Utah.”

Separate from the camps, do you have any visits coming up that you may take?

“I want to go to Arizona State and Boise State.”

Zamajay, it is always great catching up with you. I appreciate your time today and wish you success at the upcoming camps.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Eli at Common Visuals; No. 44 Zamajay Duncan