Player Primer: Austin Nagel
College Coaches: If you’d like his contact info please reach out to me at mattlemming@lemmingprepinsider.com or DM me @lemminginsider.
One of the most underrated 2018 WRs in the state, Lemont’s Austin Nagel has been receiving interest from FCS schools, but is still waiting on that first offer. We discussed his offseason work with Midwest BOOM, how he holds himself to the highest standard on and off the field and his loaded upcoming camp/visit schedule.
Austin Nagel
Wt: 175 lbs
Class: 2018
LPI: What are you going to do to take your game to the next level this offseason? Are you playing 7on7 or are you playing any other sports?
AN: I play 7on7 with Midwest Boom, and I consider it to be one of the main factors that contribute to elevating my game during the off-season. This is because I have the opportunity to go up against the best talent in Illinois during practices and tournaments, and even some of the best in the nation at some tournaments. From playing with these athletes and taking countless reps throughout the winter and spring , it gives me an advantage over most kids during the regular season and also prepares me for what college football will be like.
LPI: You currently don’t have any offers, but I believe you have what it takes to play at the next level. What skill set can you bring to the table for a college football program?
AN: I believe my strength as a receiver and how I can benefit a college football program is mainly with my route running, causing me to get open against bigger and faster DBs, and my ability to make the big plays. Another way I naturally help out my team is with my understanding and love of the game because I have been playing almost all my life, and the passion and excitement I bring when on the field with my teammates.
LPI: Which schools have shown serious interest in you?
AN: Some schools who have shown interest in me are mainly FCS schools such as Illinois State, Lehigh, Wofford, Missouri State, and also Ivy League schools. In particular Columbia and Cornell. Also, Miami of Ohio and Princeton have come into school to talk with me and some other players.
LPI: Where have you visited most recently and do you have any planned visits or camps/showcases set?
AN: I am visiting Illinois State for their spring game April 22, and am currently planning out my other visits and camp schedule. As of now I plan on attending the Northwestern camp, because of how many colleges are at their camp, the Lemming Prep Insider Showcase, and I am trying to schedule some camps and visits with colleges that are interested out east. As it gets closer to the summer, I should have a few more camps added to my current list and a solidified schedule.
LPI: On or off the field, how do you demonstrate leadership or go the extra mile for your teammates?
AN: Off the field, I try and help my team avoid decisions that could cost us our season and supply, along with build of the energy our Defensive Coordinator (Coach Hayes) brings to the weight room. On the field, as I mentioned before, I am always bringing excitement to the game and I consider it to be the best way to get my teammates to have fun playing, and focus on winning. Also, whenever we are trailing in a game, I never point the finger at other people except myself, but not in a negative way. In our final game of the season, and the quarter final game last year against St. Laurence, we were down most of the game, and it came down to the final offensive drive. I started cramping pretty badly so I had to sit out for half of the drive, and when I came back in I was not 100%, so it would be arrogant to blame anyone else for that loss. This helped me learn to prepare before my games next season in a smarter way, and as a starter last year (and experiencing this loss), it has motivated the team and I for next season.
LPI: Who are some of your teammates or training partners that you believe can play at the next level, but have gone overlooked by college coaches?
AN:
Gabe Berta (FS) – In my opinion, is one of the most overlooked safeties in Illinois. As you can see if you watch his highlight tape, he is probably the scariest person on the field for receivers coming across the deep middle of the field. To add to his hard hitting, no one will ever get deeper than him on the field, and has a great instinct for where the quarterback is going to throw the ball.
Caleb Young (OLB) – One of the fastest and strongest kids on our team, and has the athleticism to play anywhere on the field. He will be one of the main factors into our success next season.
Anthony Martin (RB) – Has started on varsity since Freshman year and one of the hardest workers on the team. If colleges are looking for a powerful back with speed he is the best option.
Nate Ascolani (DL) – Led our defensive line as a junior and got through the O-Line almost every play. Teams had to start double teaming him as the season went on and he created room for our other defensive players to make plays.
Tyler Gray (DB) – Is going to be playing our lockdown corner position this year, and very few passes were caught on his account last season. He always gives good competition in practice and I feel he can play college football.
Brady Janas (DB/LS) – This offseason, he has developed into someone who will be a main reason why we will win games this year, because he is filling the shoes of our corner who is leaving. Also, Brady has trained for long snapping and can play college football at either position.
Brian Collins (RB) – Has probably outworked anyone this offseason and when given the opportunity to run the ball he puts up numbers. Being the backup of Anthony, he was put in at running back in one of our last games of the regular season and rushed for over 200 yards with 2 touchdowns.
Cade Campos and Frankie Montalto (LBs) – Both started as huge roles to our defense last season as sophomores and will be on the radar for colleges soon.