On Saturday, Nebraska hosted a number of intriguing 2020 visitors for Junior Day. One player to definitely get to know is 3-star (HV Rating: 86.2) offensive tackle Jeffrey Persi from San Juan Capistrano, California. The lineman measured in at 6-foot-7 and 262 pounds at the event and has the type of frame that offensive line coach Greg Austin likes in his tackles.
I caught up with Persi to get his thoughts on the trip, what his parents thought, his relationship with the coaches and much more.
Here is the full Q&A with Persi:
What did you think of Junior Day at Nebraska?
“I really enjoyed it. It was really nice getting to meet all the coaches and getting to see all the facilities and stuff.”
What were your expectations going into the visit?
“To be honest, coming into it I didn’t really know what to expect. I didn’t really have any real expectations but it definitely was really nice. I really enjoyed it.”
You told me before that your parents were coming. What did they think about the trip?
“They really enjoyed it too. Just getting some questions answered and getting to see everything, plus [talking] to the coaches was good for them.”
Which coaches did you get to interact with the most?
“Well I was with [offensive coordinator] coach [Troy] Walters for most of the day and I got to talk to Coach Austin and Coach [Scott] Frost too. I’d say I was with Coach Walters the most and then next would be Coach Austin.”
How would you describe your relationship with Walters?
“He’s my area recruiter so I’ve seen him a couple times now. I think we are starting to build a relationship and I’m getting to know him.”
What about Austin who would potentially be your position coach?
“I enjoyed my time with him. I like what he stands for and his philosophy as an offensive line coach. I’m excited to get to [know] more about him over time. Hopefully I’ll get to see him again.”
Did you talk with the staff about coming back for the spring game?
“Yes, that was mentioned. I still have to get all the dates straight for that but I’d definitely be up for coming out and seeing a practice.”
What other schools are you most in contact with at this point?
“Well, I’m getting a lot from UCLA, Cal, Michigan and Arizona State.”
Do you have visits planned to any of those other schools?
“I believe I’m going to go see Northwestern and possibly Oklahoma but I’m not quite sure on the dates.”
What would you say are some of the top things you are looking for in a school?
“Obviously I want to find a school that’s good. Also, one that is well-balanced in academics and athletics. The players having a good relationship with everyone, so a family aspect and bond with the players and the coaches. Having coaches that you can have a good relationship with and talk to when you need to if it’s about football, academics or anything else. Overall, just where I feel the most comfortable.”
https://www.hudl.com/video/3/11169815/5bec8ad04bb2a80fa879c2b6
Greg is the Recruiting Analyst for Hail Varsity and has covered Husker athletics since 2013. He has always had a passion for sports while growing up in the Chicago area. As he got older and had to hang up his cleats and sneakers, he realized his passion for sports went beyond just watching and attending games. He has covered many events from the Rose Bowl to championship boxing matches. If he’s not talking sports, he’s hovering over his grill. He is married to an amazing woman, Kim, and they have a dog that barks when Greg yells at the TV during games.
