It was never a question of if, simply when Central two-way star Casey Clanton would grow into his own body. After all, his dad and head coach, Jon Clanton was a star at Centennial High School before playing defensive tackle at Nebraska.
As they say, “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”
“I’ve been getting bigger, I’ve gained 30 pounds,” the 6-foot-4, 230-pound tight end/defensive end said to Sports360AZ.com. “I’m getting faster. I’m getting ready for my senior season.”
Said words are bad news for the Bobcats’ 2018 opponents after Clanton, who has offers from Hawaii, Navy, Kansas, UNLV, Air Force, Ohio, NAU and a handful of others, reeled in seven touchdowns, while also registering five sacks and 10 tackles-for-loss last year as a junior.
“He plays physical,” Jon Clanton explained to Sports360AZ.com when asked what college coaches like the most about his son’s skill set. “I think he stretches the field pretty well. They like how he runs. He’s not just a blocking tight end. He can catch, as well.”
Casey says he’s enjoying the recruiting process, especially considering it brings extra attention to the Bobcats’ program. Clanton is getting college looks at both tight end, as well as at defensive end/rush linebacker. His athleticism, versatility and most importantly, solid grades in the class room make him appealing to schools around the country.
Clanton also isn’t afraid to pick his dad’s brain on some of the finer points of the game, both on and off the field when it pertains to playing big-time college football.
“I actually ask him questions all the time about it because I haven’t been there,” Casey said. “So learning from somebody who’s been there it actually benefits me because I’ll know what to expect.”
Coach Clanton is happy to lend the advice and is ready to enjoy another season with his oldest son.
“I wouldn’t change anything,” Jon said about being around Casey at Central. “It’s been a blessing for me. I knew that growing up he was going to come to Central and play for me. It’s been great.”
Both Clanton’s have experienced their share of greatness on the gridiron.
Like father, like son.
