UNC commit Cruz proves to be solid receiver
Last season, UNC football commit Jose Cruz was frustrated with the lack of balls thrown his way as his high school, Bishop McCort (Penn.) ran a predominantly rush-oriented offense. This season, Cruz has enjoyed the fruits of a much more open offensive scheme. Carolina Blue got a chance to speak to Cruz about how his final prep season has been going since his commitment to UNC in late July.
“Things are going pretty good,” Cruz said. “Right now, we’re 6-2 with one game left this Saturday night and then the playoffs to come. I have about 21 catches for around 250 yards and a two-point conversion catch.”
Advertisement
Certainly, this is a welcomed improvement for an athletic tight end that had only two receptions all of last season.
“I’m more satisfied with getting to touch the ball, but I’m not as satisfied with my blocking right now,” Cruz added. “I know I’m a good blocker, but I want to get more out of it. So, I’ve bulked up to 239 pounds now. I’m also playing a bit of defensive end and tackle.”
Despite committing early, Cruz has continued to have constant contact with the UNC coaching staff, especially running backs coach Andre Powell.
“I talk to him maybe two or three times a week. Last week, he came to my game. He just basically talks to me about how I’m doing and how my family is doing, and then different formations they’ll have me playing in.”
Overall, Cruz says that he thinks the Tar Heels have been doing really well so far this season, but he has been unable to make the trip down to Chapel Hill. He hopes, of course, to change that very soon.
“I would like to get down there, but with our games on Saturday, I don’t know,” Cruz said. “We’ve been talking about a visit date, but we haven’t been able to set anything yet.”
Note: This type of content is normally reserved for premium subscribers, who enjoy the latest updates and information on UNC recruits. To try a free 7-day trial click on the link below.
TarHeelIllustrated.com is giving you 7 free days to explore TarHeelIllustrated.com and find out why it's the No. 1 source for UNC team and recruiting news. There has never been a better time than now. Sign-up today and gain access to our exclusive team coverage, photo galleries, recruiting updates and of course the exclusive Tar Heel Fans Only message boards.