Update Interview with 7-Offer 2020 Michigan WR Jeffrey Knight
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
In a grind it out Catholic AA classification in Michigan, University of Detroit Jesuit High School played the part to success. The Cubs posted an 8-4 record in 2019 averaging 22 points per game. One of their all-around athletes helping them to a district championship was senior receiver/cornerback Jeffrey Knight. Knight (5-9, 165) was a two-way starter, but perhaps shinned brightest at receiver. After a junior year with 18 tackles, five tackles for a loss, a sack, a pick, and nine passes broken up on defense and an offensive season that included 13 carries for 80 yards and seven receptions for 189 more yards a score, he was perfect hauling in 18 targets for 586 yards with two scores adding 75 on the ground. His efforts have brought about seven scholarship offers thus far.
In an RNG catch-up interview, I sat down with Knight covering his senior season and ongoing recruiting process with his first two official visits schedule in January.
Interview
Jeffrey, the Cubs had a great season overall going 8-4 and you were a big part of the offense. How did the 2019 season go for you personally?
“It was my breakout year. The past three years, playing varsity all four years, were learning seasons. I excelled this season at the highest level on offense and defense. I was used more and in different ways this season. I was able to adapt to the offense with the new coaching staff; we, as a team, adapted and did well after a learning year last year. We came together as a team, we played well.”
You were making plays all over the field stretching defenses with big hitting plays. What were some of the routes you were running within the scheme?
“Fades, corners, out-routes, jet sweeps, and some posts. I mostly ran corners and fades.”
Which game this season was your best personal performance?
“I think I came out in the postseason. The Farmington game, the district championship game, was probably my best. Our offense was not scoring, my coach told me to step up. I had our only touchdown. We won 11-10. That game brought me out. Everyone could see who I am as player. That game got me honorable mention for all-state.”
Nice. How did you see your overall skills grow this season?
“It grew a lot with my route running. I used the technique I learned in the offseason. Breaking out of the routes, coming back to the ball, hips over ankles – all that stuff came out this year. The fundamentals, using that stuff in the game helps. It all came together this year.”
Tell me about your play on defense this season.
“I was the starting corner at the beginning of the season on the boundary side. I was matched up one-on-one in man and we played some Cover 3. My job was not letting anyone catch it and don’t get beat deep. Defensive wise, I’m a dual-position athlete if needed.”
Closing out your high school career, what do you feel are the strengths to your game?
“One thing that has been there throughout my high school career is my speed. I was not always the tallest or the biggest, but in every game I was the fastest – and that was all four years. That never went away. My route running from the offseason really helped during the season. That took me to another level. My technique, that helped me this season. It all came together. You can’t be a receiver if you can’t catch, the 100 percent receiving this season not dropping a pass, you can have sweet moves but if you cannot catch you cannot help your team.”
Which schools are showing interest as we near National Signing Day?
“Northwood, Saginaw Valley, Tuskegee, Tennessee State, and John Carrol are showing interest.”
How many offers do you have now?
“Seven: Albion, Ohio Northern University, Rockford University, Morgan State – just picked that one up, Cincinnati Christian, Arkansas Baptist, and Miami-Ohio.”
That’s fantastic. Do you have any planned official or unofficial visits coming up?
“Yes. I have an official to Saginaw and Albion in January.”
As a senior getting closer to having to make that big decision, what are you looking for in the ideal fit at the next level?
“I want to play. I just want to play ball. Whatever school needs me, I am ready to play anywhere. I want to play and will fill any position asked of me.”
What are you focusing on with your winter workouts?
“I am still working out with Rising Stars. I am trying to get in as much work as I can.”
Will you be running track again this season?
“Yes. I am in indoor track right now.”
Which events are you running?
“The 60, 200, and 400.”
Do you have a message for any college coaches out there about the type of player you are?
“I am a baller. Don’t overlook me because of my size. I can play as well as a 6-4 guy.”
Jeffrey, thanks for your time today and good luck with the recruiting process.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Lamar Price; Jeffrey Knight in action (2019)