Receiver Jayden Dixon-Veal Closed Out Senior Season One of the Best in California
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The stats speak for themselves, Class of 2020 receiver Jayden Dixon Veal was not only one of the best receivers in the state of California during the 2019 season but also in the country. The 6-0.5, 171-pound, receiver exploded for 91 receptions covering 1,352 yards with 13 touchdowns for Rancho Cucamonga going against Division-I competition connecting with four-star 2020 Ohio State QB signee CJ Stroud for the explosive numbers. After the big season, collegiate teams are starting to find out about the five-offer standout.
In an RNG catch-up interview, I sat down with the three-star receiver detailing his amazing season on the gridiron with an update on his recruiting process of it.
Interview
Jayden, your senior season was unbelievable leading the team in receptions and yards. What was working so well for you in 2019 allowing for the breakthrough campaign?
“My connection with my QB became stronger. We saw what we could do and how we could take advantage of the teams we were playing. Our maturity, that helped as well.”
What was the connection like for you and CJ Stroud?
“It was good. We have been friends for so long. Before we started playing for Rancho, we were friends. We took that to the field. It was great this season.”
Where were you lining up and which routes were you running in 2019?
“They had me everywhere. I played slot my junior year (37 rec. for 466 yards, 4 TDs). This season they had me running fades, four-step outs, and corner-posts.”
How did you take your game to that elite level this past season?
“My biggest improvements was with my yards after the catch and my explosiveness off the ball.”
With Silas Bolden on the other side, how were teams defending you trying to slow your production?
“They would double me a lot, then they started doubling him too. It was a win-win for both of us.”
In which contest did you put it all together for a best game in 2019?
“The Upland game.”
What did you do well to make that your best game?
“We started off strong; I got the ball on the first play for 40-yards on a screen. A couple of plays later I got a touchdown. That set the tone for my team, me flipping over a guy for the TD.”
From the start of the season up to the dead period, have you taken any official and/or unofficial visits?
“Yes, sir. I have taken official visits to Sacramento State and Eastern Washington.”
How did the Sac State visit go?
“It went really well. It was sweet seeing them in the championship game. It was great to see where a team came from, a losing season to one of the best teams in the country. It was a cool experience. The coaches treated me well; their coaches were awesome.”
And Eastern Washington? How did that go?
“It went well too. They were playing NAU (Northern Arizona). They beat them up. It was an awesome experience as well.”
Are there any schools showing interest that have not offered yet?
“Yes. I am receiving interest from Colorado State, San Diego State, and UCLA.”
How many offers are you holding?
“Five: Eastern Washington, Idaho, Idaho State, Nevada, and Sacramento State.”
That’s outstanding. Congratulations.
“Thank you.”
What consists of the ideal fit for Jayden?
“The ideal fit is a school where I will play and mature as a man. Some kids want to play and have fun, I want to take my football and my maturity to another level. I want to take myself to another level off the field as well. I want a school where they have a high graduation rate, my major that has a good academic program. Location does not matter for me as long as I have a good connection with the coaches. I am looking for a place where everyone wants to win and they work hard.”
Mentioning your major, what would you like to major in once at a four-year?
“Criminal justice, business, or sociology.”
Are you competing in any other varsity sports for Rancho coming up?
“Yes. I am running track.”
Which events?
“We still have not established that yet. I am guessing I will run the 100 and be on the relays as well.”
Jayden, congratulations, again, on the great senior season you turned in and with the recognition you are receiving from college coaches for your efforts. Thanks for your time today and good luck with the upcoming track season.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Twitter/Dixon-Veal family; Jayden Dixon Veal finger-tip touchdown catch