Interview: Speedy 2021 California ATH Jayden Sheridan is a Top Overlooked Two-Way Standout

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

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Game film does not lie, and the truth is out on Class of 2021 receiver/cornerback Jayden Sheridan. Sheridan showed he was a lockdown corner with Palmdale High School throughout his junior season praying for California quarterback to throw his way, but they didn’t. His stat line ended with 21 stops, two tackles for a loss, five passes broken up, and one pick. On offense, the 5-11, 170-pound, target was instant offense when targeted turning 16 receptions into five touchdowns covering 296 yards. The speed (4.46) and athleticism are all there, now college coaches just need to be made aware.

In an RNG first-look, Sheridan enters the RNG Lab for a one-on-one filling us in on his skills, workouts, and growing recruiting process.

Interview

Jayden, you turned in some big plays last season helping the Falcons to an 11-2 season. Looking back, what are you most proud of from your junior year?

I was proud of how vocal I was. Last season I was speaking up with the team more than the year before. I was not as much of a talker, I was more the quiet one in the back. But doing that, becoming more of a leader, has helped me grow to where I am at now.

The stats may not do your game justice on offense. You have speed, have different releases, and catch with your hands. What are some of the other attributes to your game that makes you so dangerous?

I am really quick, I can get open when I want to, and I can make plays – I am a playmaker.

Sticking with your speed. How fast are you? What is the best-timed run you’ve posted?

My best 40 was a 4.46 at the Top 100 in Corona at Winner Circle Athletics.

Nice. You got time in with the Falcons secondary last season as well; where all were you lining up and what were your roles within the scheme?

I was the protection for the right side of the defense at corner. Against the run, I was a sure-tackler or made sure to make the ball go back inside. On offense, I was the go-to at wide out.

At season’s end, what did you feel were the strengths to your game on defense?

I felt like my strength was having my whole side locked down. They would not throw my way.

When the new season gets going where all will we see you on the field?

This season I am playing safety, corner, receiver, and punt returner.

What style of offense will you guys be executing?

Mostly an empty back set with a bunch package all out of the Spread.

Within the offense, what are some of the routes you will be running?

I run comebacks, posts, slow-go, and I will be blocking a lot. We run sweeps too.

What have you been working on this offseason with your game as a receiver?

I’ve been working mostly on my legs and sticks. Last year, when I did a comeback or curl, I was not breaking down as fast as needed. The routes were slower than they are now. I have been working on my routes and catching 100 balls a day. I am working on my hands a lot.

Same question, but for defense.

This offseason I have been working on my releases on the line, my jam – that comes with lifting, my kick step – all my steps. I have also been working on getting to the hip when the ball is thrown, keeping my head down, staying disciplined, and breaking on the ball.

How has playing both ways helped expand your overall skill and understanding of the game?

It comes easier for me knowing what the other players are doing when you are on the other side. You know the coverages and you know the routes based on where they line up, it all gets a lot easier.

Are you working with a personal trainer?

Yes. With Formula, as a receiver we go all in with our coach. We work on our sticks, routes, and merge together for one-on-one and 7v7.

What are some of the drills you are doing to add more speed and burst to your skills?

For my speed and burst, every day I work on the ladder. When I finish the ladder, I will do cone work.

When does fall camp begin for you guys and what is the practice schedule going forward?  

We start practicing next week going Tuesday through Thursday. We are doing mostly conditioning in Phase 1 then we will get to throwing the ball around in Phase 2.

As we get closer to the start of the 2020 season, which schools are showing recruiting interest?

USC, Sacramento State, Utah, University of San Diego, Nevada, and San Jose State.

Have you had a chance to take any unofficial visits?

Yes, I went to Sac State and San Jose State.

What did you do and see during the Sac State visit?

They took us into the locker room and showed us around the campus. They showed us all the school has to offer.

And the San Jose State trip, what did you see then?

We went on a tour of the campus, tried on the jersey, and filled out questionnaires.

Jayden, it was great covering all of these topics with you today. Wishing you success this extended offseason preparing for your senior run.

Thank you.

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Photo credit: Formula Sports/Sheridan family; Jayden Sheridan