Interview: Another Showcase Season Ahead for 3-Star 2022 Oregon LB/TE Spencer McKelligon
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Although abbreviated, the 2020 Oregon high school football season was a great one for Spencer McKelligon. The 6-3, 215-pound, linebacker/defensive end and tight end picked up first team All-League honors on both sides of the ball for Jesuit High School at the conclusion of his junior campaign. McKelligon wowed all chasing down 66 ball carries, 41 times on his own, with six sacks. On offense, in addition to being that valuable extra blocker on running plays, he secured 12 passes for 200 yards with three total touchdowns during the Crusaders’ five-game schedule.
The foundation for success was laid for college coaches to take notice spurred forward by camp performances along the west coast this summer. As McKelligon continues preparing for that all-too import senior season, he made a stop by the RNG Clubhouse for an update on his busy offseason schedule.
Interview
Spencer, you were all over the field for the Crusaders during the 2020 season. Which positions did you play throughout your junior campaign?
I played tight end, defensive end, and some at linebacker. Our team needed a defensive end. I was also at receiver some. We didn’t have many receivers. I stepped in to being the No. 1 guy to catch the ball.
Between defensive end/linebacker and tight end, do you have a favorite spot?
I don’t have a favorite spot. My best opportunities going forward would be on defense at linebacker.
As a defensive end, how has lining up with a hand down in the ground as a tight end helped you?
Definitely helps getting off the ball. I was basically in a three-point stance on every play. It helps with quicker footwork, and helps me get better overall.
When you get going this fall, what roles are you taking on?
I am playing defensive end and tight end again. My coaches will have me flexed out a little more at receiver.
What have you been working on with your game as a defender this spring and summer?
I have been working on reacting and covering the fast guys in the slot. I’ve put a lot of work into my man coverage at linebacker, reading coverages, being able to get off blocks when rushing, and not over-pursuing. A lot of reacting work and having good instincts at any time.
And what about on offense?
Speed, that is a big factor. Blocking, and route running – that is a big one, and being explosive with my cuts.
Which lifts and/or exercises have you been doing to bring more power and agility to your skillset?
The main ones, bench, squat, and power clean. I’ve also been doing explosive workouts with dumb bells, broad jumps, and combine testing.
And what about with your speed work?
I have been working on my speed. After the football season I ran track and have continued to work with track team. Running tracks, seeing the running form and learning the little things have helped with my speed.
This spring or summer, did you compete at any college camps?
Yes, I went to a few camps and showcases. I went to a Lewis and Clark camp, Sac State, Western Oregon, and my favorite one was the UC-Berkeley camp.
How did the Cal camp go for you?
It went great. I competed at defensive end. They worked us hard. They taught me some things that I am taking home. That camp helped my knowledge of the game and learning what to do at certain times and in different situations.
Tell me about the Sac State camp.
It went great. There were a lot of coaches there watching. I went to that camp as a linebacker. It was really good to go against fast running backs and tight ends. Their drills were really beneficial to my knowledge of the game and to becoming a better linebacker.
Spencer, thank you for your time today. Wishing you success preparing for the upcoming season.
Yes, sir. Thank you.
Photo credit: McKelligon family; Spencer McKelligon