Interview: Skills for Intimidating 3-Star 2021 Antioch DL Jailen Weaver are Growing
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
On the gridiron, one can beat the opposition with size and strength or speed. When the physical comes together with technique and knowledge, that is when true domination begins. With size alone, three-star defensive end/tackle Jailen Weaver is in a class all his own stretching the tape at 6-8.5 and tipping the scales at 280 pounds. But the Class of 2021 Antioch standout is more than just an intimidating presence on the field with skills growing towards controlling opposing offensive lines.
With Weaver’s wingspan, if he gets his hands on an offensive lineman – play over. As the Panthers fought through a tough 2-8 season in 2019, Weaver worked his tail off coming up with 46 tackles, 23 solo, 12 tackles for a loss, nine sacks, two passes batted down, and one forced fumble. When the ball was going the other way against California Division-I foes, Weaver spent time at tight end helping in the run game and emerging as a passing target with three receptions for 82 yards.
The importance of the offseason has not been lost on Weaver. To capitalize on his physical giftings, he has been getting after it with his workouts preparing for a big senior season. As his body continues to grow while he is filling in his frame, college coaches are daydreaming about what he can do for their roster in the coming years. Thus far, eight offers have been extended.
In an RNG catch-up interview, Weaver brings us up to speed on his workouts and recruiting options.
*Click link for RNG’s Under Armour Camp video interview with Jailen Weaver
Interview
Jailen, we caught up last at the Under Armour All-American Regional back in February. Since then, how have your offseason workouts gone?
“They are not the best workouts, but I am doing the best I can do given the circumstances. Through the quarantine, I have been going to the park, to a sand pit, and to a friend’s house lifting weights.”
As a defensive player, what have you been focusing on with the technical skills to your game?
“My speed and my arm strength.”
Have you been working on any new moves?
“Right now, I am not working on any new moves. My focus is getting my feet and hands right.”
The Panthers’ coaching staff also utilized you at tight end last season, are you staying at tight end and/or taking on any other new roles on offense in 2020?
“I am not sure. We will have to see when the season starts.”
You touched on this a minute ago, what has been your daily routine to stay in football shape this spring?
“In the morning I stretch and do push-ups. Later in the day I run in the park. I run a few laps around the sandpit, do footwork drills, and my explosive work. Sometimes I have one of my friends role playing as a left tackle – I’ve been doing stuff like that.”
Going into recruiting, how many offers do you have?
“Eight.”
Weaver’s Offer Sheet: Arkansas, Fresno State, Indiana, Nebraska, San Jose State, Tennessee, Texas A&M, and Washington State
Which programs were the last couple to offer?
“Fresno State offered Thursday night, Nebraska, and Arkansas.”
Are any schools showing interest that have not offered yet?
“Arizona.”
Once the campuses open up, are there any planned visits ahead for you?
“I will take whatever visits I can, but I have none scheduled right now. When I am allowed to go on them, I will go on them.”
In one way or another, we’ve all been away from the game for months now. Once you guys get back going again putting the pads on getting ready for the 2020 season, what will that moment be like for you?
“It will be exciting. Being back on the field will be a release of stress and anger. I am excited to get back out there.”
Jailen, I fear for those in the way of that release of stress and anger. Thanks for your time today and good luck with your workouts this summer.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: RNG; Jailen Weaver