Bear Insider Video: Mansfield Summit Cal Commit Legend Journey

MANSFIELD, TEXAS - On the night before Cal’s victory over North Texas, the latest Cal commit, 6-2/260 Mansfield Summit defensive lineman Legend Journey‍ faced off against rival Mansfield in a barnburner of a game that Journey’s Summit squad narrowly lost in Mansfield’s come-from-behind victory.

Journey started the game somewhat slowly but really came on in the second half with constant pressure in Summit’s loss, with more than 10 tackles and several TFLs.

"The game plan was to let the D-line get a little bit looser in the second half knowing how they started playing," Journey said after the loss. "So I definitely feel like me and my fellow teammates definitely got after it. All I can say that we've just got some work to do back in the lab. Lack of discipline. That'll be something we got to work on. But we'll get to it on practice Monday."

Journey took his official visit to Cal the last OV weekend of the summer in June and the firsthand experience of being on campus and being with the coaches and team sold him and his family on his future home.

"You know, when I went on my official, it definitely felt like home even though it's very far away," Journey noted. "But it made me like home. My family was on board with me, as well. A new environment and new space. A grown man decision.

"My mom wanted me to be a little bit closer to home so I could see my mom every now and then. But she definitely understands where I'm coming from with wanting a new environment and (making) a grown man decision.

"She said she definitely thought they made it feel like home. She definitely put her trust in them to make sure I become the young man I'm supposed to be."

The bay area was also very different from his hometown of Arlington and also made a big impression.

"Very beautiful, definitely," Journey said. "I definitely enjoyed my time while I was out there, saw some new things so definitely a beautiful place to live. Love the weather out there. Just cool and green."

Journey’s relationship with his future position coach, Cal DL coach Andrew Browing also played a big role in his decision. On the eve of the Bears’ opener in Denton, Browning was on the sidelines from start to finish watching his future d-end.

“Yes, sir. Very great relationship," Journey said. "We have a call every week and text here and there. He definitely makes sure he checks in and makes sure I'm okay. Stuff like that.”

As for what he’s most looking forward to when he arrives on campus ten months from now, Journey’s looking for growth both on the field and off.

"I'd definitely say a boost in my skill when it comes to D-line," Journey said. "I want to boost my skill and I want them to teach me how to be the young man that I'm supposed to be when I leave."

“Legend is a young man that is far more advanced than athletes his age, Mansfield Summit DL coach Windley Laborte said after Journey committed. “Sometimes we as coaches forget how young Legend actually is. He just turned 17 on Friday.  His knowledge and skill of the game is next-level ready. He understands and knows the game more than those in college. He’s going to work hard and do whatever his coaches ask of him and make those that know him proud each step of the way.

“I know once he gets to Cal he will be a player that we won’t even recognize when he comes home to visit due to the work he will put in for you all in the weight room and all throughout offseason.”

“As a player and a leader on the field, Legend leads by example,” Mansfield Summit head coach Channon Hall added. “At DL, Legend is able to be a superior athlete. With a 6’8 wingspan and with great strength, he makes it hard on the offensive line. Legend is also a technician on the field and is well-coached and receives coaching very well and is able to apply it immediately.”

Last season for Summit, Journey piled up 54 tackles, 14 TFLs, 2 sacks, 5 QB hurries, 2 passed defended and 1 fumble recovery at defensive tackle as a junior in his 1st team all-district season.

Journey was down to Cal and Oklahoma State following his official visits. He also fielded offers from Ole Miss, TCU, Washington and more before settling on the Bears.