Canyon WR-DB Jack McKay will play a pivotal role on both offense and defense for the Eagles in 2019. [Keirstyn Kelly/ Press Pass Sports]
Being named to varsity as a freshman in 2017 gave McKay a distinct honor of being the first Canyon Eagles football player to suit out on the varsity roster in 18 years. McKay hasn’t disappointed since that move.
Last season, the wide out was superb, hauling in 33 catches for 584 yards with seven TDs.
With the departure of key senior receivers like Seth Nickell and Brett Cobb, the 6-foot-2, 180 pound junior will be looked upon as an even bigger target for head coach Blake Bryant.
McKay took time out of his schedule to speak with Press Pass Sports.
What did that mean to you to be the first freshman to play on varsity in nearly two decades?
“It was awesome, and I don’t take that lightly, but now everyone in my class is on varsity. We’re all focused on the same goal.”
How much have you learned since being on varsity going on three years now?
“It’s the experience more than anything. I think where it helps me the most is coming back as a leader instead of a guy getting used to things. I know I can help others get to where I am.”
With Seth and Brett gone, how much more do you feel you’ll be depended on in the offense?
“I do expect to get passes, I think any receiver expects that. But for all those guys that left, we have a lot of guys back to fill those spots. Now they’re about to get that opportunity.”
What are expectations for Canyon this year?
“We set a very high bar last year, and I think everyone this team wants to continue that success and raise that bar. We lost some guys, but we gained some guys. We’re going to go out and do what we do on Friday nights.”
I hear your mom sets an early curfew for you?
“Yes, 10:30 p.m., sometimes 10:15 p.m.”
What do you think of that?
“I don’t mind one bit.”
Who are three athletes from any sport in any era you’d like to sit and have dinner with?
“Wow, let me think… Tom Brady, Julio Jones and Nolan Ryan.”