Interview: Breakout Season Ahead for Versatile 2021 Etiwanda TE/WR Judah Ezinwa

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

Collegiate offensive coordinators looking for a do-everything big guy who can block, be a threat in the passing game and line up on the line, on the outside, or in the backfield – meet Judah Ezinwa. Ezinwa showcased his versatility with Etiwanda High School during his junior season acting as an extra offensive tackle on run plays while showing he can stretch and hurt defenses with his size (6-3, 210) and speed. The Rancho Cucamonga area talent was limited to four games last season but was able to haul in seven passes for 86 yards during the time permitted. The upside coupled with talent has brought an offer from Southern Utah with other regional programs starting to take notice.

In an RNG first-look interview, I sat down with one of California’s rising hybrid offensive talents covering all that he does on the field with a look at his offseason workouts.

Interview

Judah, your versatility as an athlete allowed for the coaches at Etiwanda to do so much with you last season in the offense. As that versatile tight end/H-back, what all were you doing in the Eagles’ offense in 2019?

“I was blocking and going out on routes. For me, my strength is my speed. I can play receiver and tight end. Because of my size, my speed deceives defenders. When I go out it is hard for them to cover me.”

What offensive set were you guys running?

“We were running 10-, 11-, and 12-personnel last season with some empty back sets. Sometimes they had me in at fullback.”

The coaches were getting you involved in so many ways including getting a shuffle pass out of the backfield. What were some of the other routes or ways the coordinator was getting you action in the passing game?

“Some of the other routes, little chip passes – I block and release going into the flats, seams for me were a big thing in our offense, the quick outs, and stick routes – those are big. You can turn them into more yards and first downs.”

Either cracking down or lining up tight, you were a big part of the run game with you blocking. How did that part of your game improve last year?

“That part improved a lot because our offensive line coach he was working with me on my technique. He was working with me on keeping inside of my feet, keep moving, and finishing blocks. That is the thing I need to work on to get the pancake, that and keeping my hands in on the chest area.”

When the 2020 season kicks off where all will we see you on the field?

“I will be at tight end, of course, a little in the slot, and fullback. If we need it this year, I might play defensive end. Whatever I can do to help the team win and be successful, I will do. I will also be on on kickoff, kick return, punt, field goal and all that jazz.”

Since the season ended what all have you been doing to prepare for your senior season?

“Working on my speed. I was training with Rharebreed before the virus. They were working with my on my releases and route running, they were helping me be different. I make up for my size with my route running and speed. I can play tight end and receiver being a threat on the field. Coach Rob (Rharebreed) has worked with me on different techniques, stack back on top to have the defender beat and making sure I am getting my feet right; I am jumping roping every day.”

Time has been limited in the high school weight room, but did you get to max out before everything was shut down?

“The last time I benched I got 265, my squat was 405, and my dead-lift was 475.”

Nice. This summer if the college camps happen, are there any camps you may go to?

“As of right now, Coach Rob and I have been talking about it. He sees something in me, he wants the recruiters to see it too. For sure I will go to camps. If possible I will be at the Redlands, we are talking about some area college camps, and getting on a plane to some camps in other areas, but I am not sure which ones yet.”

Southern Utah has offered you, which other schools are showing interest?

“Right now, Nevada and Northern Arizona are the main two.”

When you got that first offer from Southern Utah, what was that moment like for you accomplishing that dream of being able to earn a college degree while playing college football?

“Getting the offer, it was truly special especially after having only played four games last season. When I was talking to their coach on the phone, he made me feel like that I could be that guy for them. He was giving me life lessons, talking to me about different kind of schools you could go to, like a party school. He said if you want to stay on track, this is the school for you. If you are looking for a party school, this is not the school for you to go to. All glory to God, my family and I are very happy.”

Going back over the last few months, did you get to visit any schools?

“Yes. I went to Nevada’s Junior Day. When the pandemic is over, Northern Arizona wants me on campus and Nevada wants me to visit again.”

How did the trip to Nevada go for you?

“It went very well. That morning, when my brother and I going up there, we got into a little car accident. We got there a little late, but I was able to meet and talk to the staff. Coach (Jay) Norvell and his staff were very welcoming. I loved the campus.”

A minute ago, you mentioned the two possible visits, is the Southern Utah visit an unofficial or official?

“We are planning an official to Southern Utah.”

Nice. Time for my virus buster question. What have you been doing during the quarantine to keep yourself entertained?

“To keep myself entertain, I work out to kill time. Five days a week I am working out. I also hang out with family, do my school work and watch movies. You never know when this will be over and we are back in football just like that, I make sure to get my workouts in; you have to stay ready.”

Judah, it was great learning more about you and your game. I appreciate your time and wish you continued success with your workouts this spring.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Ezinwa family; Judah Ezinwa at Nevada and with Rharebreed

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