Interview: 4-Star 2022 WR Keyan Burnett Updates Season with JSerra Catholic

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

California’s Trinity League is filled to the brim with fantastic high school football players, and Class of 2022 receiver/defensive end Keyan Burnett is one of them. Playing in a run-first power rushing attack, Burnett has still been able to carve out a niche for himself as a four-star recruit at receiver. His JSerra Catholic squad is 5-3 on the year playing a national schedule that includes East (UT), St. Joseph Regional (NJ), Bishop Amat (CA), Milton (GA), and Calabasas (CA), all before entering league play that includes nationally ranked No. 1 Mater Dei, No. 3 St. John Bosco, and No. 31 Servite. So far this season, Burnett (6-5, 210) has secured 12 passes for 195 yards while blocking for his teammates downfield with time spent at defensive end and on special teams. And college coaches are watching with five offers on the table.

In an RNG catch-up interview, Burnett let me in on his sophomore campaign and recruiting process.

Interview

Keyan, how has the 2019 season gone for you on the field?

“It has gone well. We have a young team. We are still trying to figure things out and what we are capable of as a team. I, also, am developing as a player.”

The team has a versatile offense, which schemes are you guys running this year?

“We are running more of a power scheme this year. Moving into the playoffs, we may throw more.”

Where all are you lining up on the field and how are your skills being utilized within the sets?

“This season I am playing between wide out and slot. The coaches use me a lot on deep balls and screens as well. I am trying to help the team win, whatever they need me to do I will do.”

How is your rotation on defense working?

“Right now, they have me going in on third down and pass rush situations going after the quarterback. I am working on my pass rush.”

Which areas of your game are starting to show the biggest gains on offense?

“The gains on offense are with my release off the ball, I am getting off better, and my route running. I am getting open for (QB) General Booty.”

What do you now feel are the strengths to your overall game?

“My strengths are getting open, high-pointing the ball – I am doing that the best ever for me now, being a football player, and having a nose for the game – blocking to my play on special teams.”

With recruiting, how many offers do you have now?

“I have five offers; Arizona, Cal-Poly, California, San Jose State, and Utah State.”

Which schools are showing interest?

“Oregon State is showing interest but has not offered yet.”

Have you had a chance to visit any campuses over the last couple of months?

“Yes. I went to UCLA for a camp and a visit. Back in June, I camped at Arizona and received an offer from them then.”

Tell me about the UCLA visit, if you will?

“It was great. I loved meeting with the coaches, and I love the program there.”

Coming up, are there any planned visits ahead?

“No. Not during the season. I am looking to go to Washington and Arizona. Those are two visits I will go on after the season.”

Last question for you. The Lions have played eight, have two regular season games left, and are assured of making the playoffs. What do you want to accomplish before the season ends?

“My goal to end this season is to become better at helping my team and being the most coachable that I can be. Doing the right thing and staying on the field on offense, defense and special teams would complete what I want from this season personally.”

Keyan, it was great catching up with you today. I wish you and the Lions success the rest of the way.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Burnett family; Keyan Burnett at Arizona (June 2019)