One to Watch Interview with 2020 California CB/DB Drew Waelde
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Experience coupled with talent and athleticism means everything when it comes to playing the game of football – and Class of 2020 cornerback/defensive back Drew Waelde has it all. The 5-10, 175-pound, talent has been a mainstay on the field for Murrieta Valley High School putting his talents to the test against highly competitive Division-I California receivers and quarterbacks. His junior season ended with 46 tackles, 31 solo, two tackles for a loss, and five passes broken up. Waelde enters his senior year as a starter at corner but will be featured all over the Nighthawks secondary playing some nickelback and safety giving college scouts more opportunities to evaluate his next level skills.
In an RNG exclusive interview, Waelde and I spent some time going over his offseason workouts, overall abilities on the field and looked ahead to the Nighthawks 2019 season.
Interview
Drew, you’ve been banging against tough California receivers at corner for the Nighthawks over the past two seasons. What do you feel are the things you do well on the field on defense?
“When I am going against these top receivers, I hold my own against them. I am always with them stride for stride. My No. 1 strength is my IQ. I always know what is going on when I am on the field. I am a smart player. I can tell where the receiver is going on the route tree with his stance and off where he lines up.”
Which areas of your game did you focus on this spring and summer?
“I focused on my ball skills and playing the ball in the air. I want to force some turnovers this season instead of getting just pass breakups. I have been working a lot on my footwork and speed.”
Where are you seeing the biggest improvements?
“Honestly, I am seeing it with my footwork; that has improved a lot. My breaks are faster and my ball skills have improved. I am attacking the ball more aggressively.”
What is the best 40-yard dash time you’ve posted?
“My best was a 4.65 at a camp last year. I did not run one this offseason.”
Will your role with the team change at all during your senior season?
“Yes. Over the past two weeks they have me all over the field on defense. I am lining up at corner, playing nickel in that package, and sometimes I will play some safety. They have given me some reps at receiver this summer. Last year I practiced with the receivers, but I only played in one game at receiver. If they need me at receiver, I am ready and I am there for my team.”
Going into the season, which schools are showing recruiting interest?
“Wyoming has been in contact with me. I have some D-II schools looking at me as well like Lake Erie.”
How is the team looking in fall camp?
“We are looking really good. We have a whole new defensive staff, that has changed the culture of our team. We have a really strong senior class. We are looking to do big things this season.”
What goals have you set for your senior season?
“My team goal is to win league and go to the championship in the playoffs, but we are going to take it one game at a time. My personal goals are to force more turnovers and have a productive year at corner, and play wherever the coaches need me to play.”
Drew, thank for your time today and good luck with the upcoming season.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Waelde family; Drew Waelde