Interview: Fierce Play Put 4-Star 2022 Etiwanda DT De’Jon Roney Near 100-Tackle Season
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
At some point every athlete experiences that proverbial “lightbulb” moment when a switch is flipped and the resting potential is tapped into unleashing the talent inside. Unfortunately for opposing California offenses, Class of 2022 Etiwanda defensive tackle De’Jon Roney had his epiphany a year ago roughing up squads for 89 tackles with six tackles for a loss, three sacks, two QB hurries, one pass batted down, and one forced fumble. The 6-4, 285-pound, one-man gang earned four-star recruiting status, All-CIF, and Baseline League Defensive Player of the Year honors for the fierce work put into his game. The other outcome for his efforts has been recognition by college football programs across the country with nine offers extended.
In an RNG one-on-one, Roney drops in to share details about his breakout sophomore campaign with an update on his rise on recruiting boards.
Interview
Dejon, your talents and abilities to disrupt offenses are a sight to see. What do you feel separates you from other defensive tackles trying to get nasty in the trenches?
“For me, I feel like I am faster than others. My get off and my strength, all that mixed together.”
For coaches that utilize the pursuit drill in practice getting the linemen downfield, you were executing that perfectly last season. Which other areas of your game showed the most growth during your sophomore campaign?
“Getting off blocks to make the play when I am looking in the backfield. I learned how to put it all together and got to the ball last season.”
When the 2019 season ended, what did you feel were the strengths to your game as a defender other than shedding blocks like rag dolls?
(Laughs) “Running across the field getting the running back. My freshman season, I was lazy but I started running last season to the ball.”
That made a difference. Where all will we see you on the field in 2020?
“A little bit of offense and on the defensive line – anywhere on the defensive line.”
Throughout the offseason, what have you been working on to prepare for your junior run?
“I have been working on some new moves and working on perfecting my craft.”
Over the summer months, what has been your daily workout routine preparing for the 2020 schedule?
“On Tuesdays and Thursdays, I work out with a trainer. On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, we go on the football field and workout.”
Have you been able to max out in the weight room lately?
“Only on bench. My bench max is 335.”
Nice. Let’s talk recruiting. Which schools are showing interest but have not offered yet?
“Minnesota and Michigan.”
Where is the offer total?
“I have 10 offers.”
Which programs were the last couple to offer you?
“Washington, Colorado, and Kansas.”
Roney’s Offer Sheet: Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, Kansas, Miami, Oregon, Oregon State, USC, and Washington
Opportunities were limited because of the virus, but before that did you get a chance to visit any programs?
“Yes, I’ve been to Arizona State and USC; I did a walk around tour at those schools.”
Are there any visits coming up?
“I am not sure; I have to talk to my dad about that. He may have me wait a little bit.”
De’Jon, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your workouts this summer.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Roney family; De’Jon Roney at ASU and USC (2020)