Gerry Hamilton's Recruiting Blog

2012 Prospects Everywhere at State 7-on-7

2010-07-13T06:34:00.001-07:00

The class of 2012 was well represented at last weekends 7-on-7 state championships on the campus of Texas A&M. Included were some famous sons, more Gilmer playmakers, a Texas A&M commitment, a Newton sleeper and prospects on the sidelines just supporting their team.

-The first player seen upon walking into intramural fields was Texas A&M commit Dennis Smith (Wimberley, Texas). Smith is looking much stronger than a year ago this time and his body is near perfectly proportioned at 6-foot, 220-pounds. He said he ran a 4.6-forty yard dash at Texas A&M summer camp and reports a 335-pound bench press, 405-pound squat and 260-pound power clean. Smith also mentioned that he just wants to get on the field whether it be at running back or linebacker or safety. It will not be a surprise for Smith to end up on the defensive side of the ball at outside linebacker. He will likely be 6-foot, 235-240-pounds a year into college.

-The son of former Texas A&M and Houston Oilers star Ray Childress was an early attention grabber on Thursday. Ford Childress (Houston, Texas/Kinkaid). The near 6-foot-5, 200-pound right-handed signal caller played tight end as a sophomore, but certainly looked the part scanning the field and delivering impressive throws throughout the day for a quarterback that doesn't have the experience of others. He displayed quality arm strength to the sidelines when he balanced up and stepped into throws. He also showed some impressive touch around the goal line and on third and shorts. He has already camped at Texas A&M and plans to attend camps at Houston, TCU and SMU. According to a member of the Kinkaid coaching staff, Houston is showing serious interest already.

-One of the top handful of 2012 prospects on hand in College Station was Justin Thomas (Orange, Texas/West Orange-Stark). The 5-foot-9 (a shade under), 160-pound jet with a reported 4.49-forty yard dash enjoyed success on the offensive and defensive side of the ball as he does on Friday nights in the Golden Triangle. Thomas has attended camps at Texas, Oklahoma, TCU and Texas Tech with the Red Raiders having already extended a verbal offer. Thomas is being recruited as a corner by the majority of programs and he says he has no problems playing on the defensive side of the ball. Thomas has played in the shadow of Oklahoma signees Trey Franks and James Haynes the last two seasons. Expect Thomas to become one of the top two-way players in the state in 2010.

-Quarterback Jeremiah Briscoe (Houston, Texas/Second Baptist) has already his fair share of media attention despite entering the 2010 season without varsity experience as a signal caller. His reputation as a thrower of the football has carried over to summer camps with impressive showings at Baylor, Texas and Texas A&M camps with the Bears having extended a verbal offer. Up next for the 6-foot-4, 198-pound right-hander is a July 18 trip to LSU. According to a member of the Second Baptist coaching staff, Briscoe may be more accurate at the same age than Texas freshman Connor Wood, but doesn't possess the same agility and athletic ability (very few pro-style QB's are as athletic as Wood). Briscoe displayed his reputation as an accurate quarterback on Thursday. His accuracy is indeed impressive considering his elbow is a little low and he doesn't get on top of the ball as well one would like. He showed the arm strength to hit closing windows in the intermediate passing game on several occasions.

-What more can be said about the Gimer Buckeyes. Head coach Jeff Traylor is one of the very best in the state having turned down 5A job offers every year to stay at his alma mater. He continues to have one of the top staffs in the state as well led by his brother Kurt Traylor. On the field, Gilmer has won a pair of 3A state titles with several more deep playoff runs. After winning the state title in 2009 and losing a number of talented players to FBS programs, the thought was that 2010 would be a rebuilding year for the Buckeyes. While it could still be with inexperience, but talent, at quarterback, the skill positions are loaded with playmakers on both sides of the ball as usual led by a strong 2012 class. Leading the way is slot receiver/defensive back Darrion Pollard (Gilmer, Texas). The 5-foot-9, 170-pound darting quick prospect made seemingly every big play on offense over a two day period of time. He made one of the highlight catches of the entire event with a leaping, one-handed grab over a defender. His ability to seperate out of his breaks was equally impressive.

On the defensive side of the ball, 2012 corner Traylon Webb (Gilmer, Texas) and 2013 corner Trey Washington (Gilmer, Texas) were impressive looking future stars. Webb, the younger brother of former Gilmer and Missouri freshman Braylon Webb, has similar size to his brother at near 6-foot-2 on a long armed frame. Washington is also 6-foot-2 and is a likely sophomore starter for Coach Traylor and staff. He is the cousin of former Gilmer and Oklahoma receiver Manuel Johnson.

-Newton High, tucked deep in East Texas on the Louisiana border has produced a number of college prospects over the years as well as winning a 2A state title or two. The 2012 class features athlete Brent Spikes (Newton, Texas). The 6-foot, 185-pound versatile prospect was the 10-2A Newcomer of the Year as a sophomore after recording 123 tackles in 14 games. On a Friday night, one can see him line up at running back as well, which is the position he worked out at June 13 at Texas camp. Spikes showed his speed all day winning the fastest man at the camp full of speedy prospects in his class. He reports a best 40-yard dash time of 4.37 and 22.0 200-meter time (hand-timed). Texas is his childhood favorite, but he would also like to hear from Florida and Alabama.

-One of the most impressive prospects on the hoof was on the sidelines Thursday. Sophomore (2013) defensive tackle Jake Rawlerson (Celina, Texas) stood above the rest. The 6-foot-5, 230-pound long armed and well defined prospect with 5.08-forty yard dash speed has camped at Oklahoma State (twice), TCU and Texas A&M (last Friday).

-Junior quarterback Dane Evans (Sanger, Texas) has camped at Oklahoma, Texas Tech, Rice, Houston and SMU this summer. The 6-foot-1, 175-pound Evans has lived in Texas and Oklahoma throughout his youth.

-Offensive tackle Mac Long (Edna, Texas) was another prospect that cheered on his team from the sidelines. The 6-foot-4, 277-pound guard prospect was one of a handful of 2012 prospect in College Station with verbal offers. Texas Tech and Houston have extended verbal offers with Baylor taking a serious look. He has camped at Texas Tech, Houston, Baylor, SMU and Texas A&M this summer.

-Talented 2012 corner prospect Jarrett Irving (Spring, Texas/DeKaney) looked the part of a blue chip prospect both physically and athletically. At 5-foot-10 and 178 solid, well proportioned pounds, Irving has grabbed the attention of every FBS program that stopped by the 5A school in the spring to take a look at star 2012 running back Trey Williams (Spring, Texas/DeKaney). He lists LSU, Texas Tech and Texas A&M as schools of interest early on.

-Remember the name Raashaan Reason (Mesquite, Texas/West Mesquite) in the class of 2013. The 5-foot-9, 165-pound running back/athlete will be a another weapon for the already uber talented West Mesquite offensive in 2010. He was a key member of the varsity track team as a freshman with a 10.8-split in the 4x100-relay team, a 22'6" long jump and a 6'2" high jump. West Mesquite head coach Mike Overton commented that Reason is the fastest player in the program.

-Safety David Busby (Coppell, Texas) will camp at LSU this week. Busy is 5-foot-10, 175-pounds and was a starter in the Cowboys secondary as a sophomore. Expect the junior to receive early offers playing next to senior corner Bennett Okotcha (Coppell, Texas).

2012 OT's Gaining Interest

2010-07-12T10:22:00.000-07:00

The state of Texas is always home to a number of talented offensive line prospects. While the depth of the offensive line class is still months away from its peak, a number of talented prospects have already popped up after impressive sophomore campaigns. In fact, the verbal offers are already beginning to be made.

Germain Ifedi (Houston, Texas/Westside): Ifedi is a very impressive prospect on the hoof at 6-foot-5, 310-pounds. The brother of former Westside defensive end and Memphis freshman Martin Ifedi attended camp at Texas A&M over the weekend and plans to take in a camp at TCU as well. He lists Ohio State as his childhood favorite. Memphis has already extended a verbal offer to the all-district selection.

Trey Keenan (Argyle, Texas): The 6-foot-6, 255-pound tackle has quietly flown up the radar of regional programs throughout the season and spring. The athletic prospect that can run (reports a 4.88-forty yard dash) and mirror laterally has been so impressive that Texas Tech and Kansas have extended verbal offers with Texas A&M a strong possibility in the coming weeks. Keenan bench presses 345 and squats 425.

Simon Goines (Keller, Texas/Central): Goines can be seen on the football field or basketball court in the metroplex. At 6-foot-7 (has been reported to be nearing 6-foot-8 now) with good feet, Goines has caught the eye of a number of programs in the Southwest Region. On July 16 and 17th, the junior will be making his first unofficial visits of the summer to Louisiana Tech and LSU. Along with LSU and Louisiana Tech, he lists Texas A&M, Nebraska, Iowa, Oklahoma, Texas, Kentucky, Oklahoma State and Stanford as schools of interest. The majority of his listed schools came through Keller Central in the spring and are showing interest. Because of a full AAU schedule playing for the Dallas Heroes, he hasn't been able to make any camps.

Christian Okafor (Houston, Texas/Westbury): The 6-foot-6, 300-pound first team all-district performer has caught the eye of Texas A&M and TCU. He has attended camps at both universities with Texas A&M last weekend. Like Ifedi, Okafor is very impressive on the hoof having measured 6-foot-6 without shoes on at both camps. Texas A&M has jumped out to an early leader after a very impressive visit over the weekend, but he is also keeping a close eye on TCU, Oklahoma and Texas Tech.

2011 class tidbits from Texas state 7-on-7

2010-07-11T06:20:00.000-07:00

College Station, Texas -- The annual state 7-on-7 championships were held Thursday through Saturday on the campus of Texas A&M, and as usual, many of the states top prospects were on hand making attention grabbing plays. While the state has many top prospects that have already made their college decisions as the leader in early recruiting, the field featured a number of talented players that have yet to make decisions or are still considering their options as soft commitments.

-Receiver Mark Roberts (Orange, Texas/West Orange-Stark) is a soft commitment to the University of Houston. The 6-foot-3 1/2, 178-pounds Roberts also has an offer from Iowa State and serious interest from Texas Tech and TCU. He said on Thursday that he clocked an impressive 4.44 at TCU camp in June.

-Darting, quick receiver/corner Jalen Claiborne (Carthage, Texas) has been to camps at Houston, SMU, TCU and Baylor this summer. Word from the Carthage coaching staff has Houston the closest to offering the 5-foot-9, 160-pounder that has legit 4.45-speed. Claiborne was impressive at both receiver and corner on Thursday. He showed some burst after the catch, terrific ball skills and the ability to accelerate past would be tacklers/defenders. He caught 58 passes for 1,066 yards and 13 touchdowns as a junior.

-Quarterback Reggie Garrett (Orange, Texas/West Orange-Stark) has an offer from Texas Southern along with interest from FBS programs from around the region. Garrett, 6-foot-2, 181-pounds, will put up big numbers as a senior throwing to the previously mention Mark Roberts and top 2012 corner/slot receiver prospect Justin Thomas (Orange, Texas/West Orange-Stark).

-High-ceiling defensive end/defensive tackle Alex Cooper (Houston, Texas/Second Baptist) is closing in on his first offers. Kansas State and SMU are showing serious interest in the 6-foot-5, 245-pound athletic prospect. Cooper has camped this summer at SMU, Baylor, North Texas, Houston and Texas A&M.

-Sleeper receiver Vasquez Haynes (Houston, Texas/Second Baptist) is begging to see his stock rise. The 6-foot-2, 190-pound transfer from Westbury Christian is receiving looks from Ole Miss, Boise State, Iowa State, Houston and Oklahoma. He has camped at Ole Miss and Houston and will be Texas A&M today. An Oklahoma camp is also possible.

-Running back Gus Johnson (Glmer, Texas) has an offer from Tulsa. The 5-foot-11, 205-pounder was one of the more impressive prospects on the hoof in College Station and showed the ability not only catch the ball, but also quickly change direction and get up the field. With a healthy senior season, expect his recruitment to take off. He rushed for 452 yards and 9 touchdowns on 48 carries last year.

-Inside linebacker Nick Morrow (Edna, Texas) has camped at SMU and Rice. SMU has talked about offering the 6-foot, 218-pound downhill run stuffer. Morrow posted 134 tackles and three interceptions in 2009.

-Athlete Cody Johnson (Anahuac, Texas) has attended camps at Rice and TCU with Texas A&M possible. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound high school quarterback is being recruited as a safety by the Owls. He threw for 934 yards and 18 scores as a junior.

-Sleeper outside linebacker Rodney Young (Spring, Texas/DeKaney) has five offers on the table. The 6-foot-1, 200-pounder with 4.6-speed has been offered by Kansas State, Northwestern, Kansas, UTEP and Texas-San Antonio. He is also receiving interest from Baylor and TCU among others. He attended camps at Baylor and TCU in June.

-Receiver Gary Owens (Mesquite, Texas/West Mesquite) is closing in on his first offer. The 5-foot-9, 165-pound Owens will make a second unofficial visit to Tulsa on July 17-18. North Texas is also showing serious interest.

-Fellow West Mesquite receiver Fred Ngwu (6-2, 185) is receiving interest from Rice, UTEP and Louisiana Tech among others. He will camp at Louisiana Tech July 24.

-Quarterback Daxx Garman (Southlake, Texas/Carroll) is an Arizona commitment, but is still listening to other programs. The 6-foot-2, 180-pound right-handed signal caller has offers from Iowa State and Rice in addition to Arizona along with interest from Arizona State and many others. Garman transferred into Southlake Carroll in the spring from Oklahoma.

-Cornerback Bennett Okotcha (Coppell, Texas) is considering offers from Baylor, Wake Forest, Minnesota, Tulsa, Wisconsin and North Texas. The 5-foot-11, 170-pound Okotcha says he hopes to have a decision by the beginning of the season.

-Quarterback Joe Minden (Coppell, Texas) has offers from Air Force and Stephen F. Austin. Minden, 6-foot-1, 190-pounds, will be in his first year starting in 2010.

-Jack-of-all-trades Ronnell Sims (Abilene, Texas) is considering offers from Rice, Baylor, Louisiana Tech and Tulsa. The 5-foot-9 165-pound quarterback can play slot receiver or possibly corner on the next level. He is the cousin of star running back and Oklahoma State commit Herschel Sims. Speaking of Herschel Sims, he was sporting his Oklahoma State hat on Friday and was impressive as always.

-Receiver Darius Joseph (Abilene, Texas) has camped at SMU already this summer and is planning to do the same at TCU next Friday. The 6-foot-1, 185-pound Joseph is still looking for his first offer.

-One of the prospects that looked impressive on Friday that has flown under the radar is running back/linebacker James Myles (Stephenville, Texas). The 6-foot, 235-pound prospect showed the ability to run, change direction and make plays on the ball on offense for Stephenville all day. Myles said he has offers from Baylor and TCU and has the Bears in the lead due to Baylor head coach Art Briles' connections to Stephenville.

-Cornerback/safety Michael Mudoh (Sugar Land, Texas/Bush) has offers from Baylor, Colorado State and UTEP. The 5-foot-10, 175-pound versatile defensive back prospect will camp at Texas A&M today and TCU and possibly Tulsa to round out July. Mudoh is part of an impressive Bush secondary that features 2012 corners Prince Ene (5-foot-9, 165) and Fort Bend Austin move-in Malcolm Smiley (5-11, 170).

-Receiver Josh Doctson (Mansfield, Texas/Legacy) has offers from Duke, Wyoming and Tulsa. The 6-foot-3, 174-pound run and catch receiver is drawing interest from a number of programs in the region.

Two notable Big 12 classes

2010-07-06T07:14:00.000-07:00

In nearly every recruiting cycle in the Southwest Region, Texas and Oklahoma gain the majority of the accolades. While the Longhorns and Sooners are well deserving of the attention that comes their way, a couple of programs are quietly building impressive 2011 classes in their own right. One of them, Texas Tech, is not only putting together one of the top classes in the Big 12, but is also knocking on the door of a top 15 class nationally.

Texas Tech (14 commitments)

The Red Raiders have surprised many with their success in the 2011 recruiting cycle. It’s safe to say head coach Tommy Tuberville and staff hit the ground running gaining commitments from some of the top prospects in Texas, while also looking to make their mark in Florida and areas of the Southeast Region.

Quarterback Michael Brewer (Austin, Texas/Lake Travis) got the party started on the offensive side with a March 5 commitment. The 6-foot, 175-pound Brewer is one of the top signal callers in the region and brings name recognition having been the starter for the 4A state champs in 2009. Brewer was joined in late March by two of the top prospects in the state at their positions. Running back Kenny Williams (Pflugerville, Texas/Hendrickson) and receiver Derek Edwards (Brenham, Texas) were huge commitments for Texas tech. Williams, 5-foot-10, 210-pounds, is a powerful back with impressive pop/snap in his hips that allows him to run through would be tacklers with powerful force. He also possesses the speed to eat up ground in the open field. Edwards is an athletic receiver prospect with high-point ball skills. The 6-foot-1, 170-pounder caught more than 800-yards in passes in Brenham’s run to the 4A state finals in 2009.

Texas Tech has continued to add key playmaking pieces after the impressive trio. Tight end Jace Amaro (San Antonio, Texas/MacArthur) picked the Red Raiders over Texas A&M April 2. The 6-foot-5, 235-pound Amaro will provide Tuberville and staff with a well rounded tight end prospect that can play in a three-point stance, but also has the speed to stretch the field vertically from his position. On May 7, Texas Tech added running back Bradley Marquez (Odessa, Texas/Odessa High). The 5-foot-11, 175-pound Marquez complements Williams’ running style nearly perfectly. Marquez is at his best when he is a one cut, vertical runner with quickness and burst through the hole. Similar to fellow West Texas running back Herschel Sims (Abilene, Texas/Abilene High), Marquez is adept out of the backfield and will provide the offense with a passing game threat as a running back or in the slot.

The Red Raiders have also recruited very well on the offensive line. Tackle prospect Le’Raven Clark (Rockdale, Texas) is one of the more underrated prospects in the state at 6-foot-6, 245-pounds with the athletic ability to play defensive end or tight end at the FBS level. Guard prospects Tony Morales (Arlington, Texas/Sam Houston) and Alfredo Morales (Arlington, Texas/Sam Houston) will be maulers in the middle. The twins block for the uber talented Jamal Turner (Arlington, Texas/Sam Houston) at Sam Houston. Tony Morales, 6-foot-4, 305-pounds, is slightly bigger than brother Alfredo, 6-foot-3, 290-pounds.

The defensive part of the class doesn’t feature the headliners like the offensive side of the ball, but has some capable front seven prospects. Inside linebacker Devon Hocutt (Killeen, Texas/Ellison) plays the game with passion and a non-stop motor. The 5-foot-11, 263-pounder has clocked in the low 4.8’s consistently at a number of combines and could very well make the move to the defensive line at the next level. Speedy linebacker Terrell Hartsfield (Chatham, Va./Hargrave Military Academy) is a sleeper prospect on the East Coast with good size at 6-foot-3, 215-pounds.

Defensive tackle James Castleman (Amarillo, Texas) is a talented prospect with good size at 6-foot-4, 265-pounds, while metroplex end Kindred Evans (Grand Prairie, Texas/South Grand Prairie) possesses much of the same high-ceiling upside ability as Clark. Evans, 6-foot-5, 216-pounds, has the ability to develop into a top-notch pass rusher.

Texas Tech is also on the board in the 2012 class with a commitment from probable national 100 prospect Derek David (Rockdale, Texas). The 6-foot-3, 220-pound hard-hitting linebacker is a current teammate of Red Raider commitment Le’Raven Clark as well as the brother of current Blinn junior college and Texas Tech commitment Logan David (Rockdale, Texas). The 6-foot-3, 290-pound Logan David could play either defensive tackle or offensive guard. All three were members of the 8-3 Rockdale team last season.

Oklahoma State (13 commitments)

The Cowboys began building their 2011 class with a February 2 commitment from quarterback J.W. Walsh (Denton, Texas/Guyer). The 6-foot-1, 195-pound Walsh possesses a plus arm that will provide the Cowboys the ability to stretch the field vertically any time they desire, quick and reactive feet in the pocket and the mobility to make plays on the move whether it be running or throwing. The son of Guyer head coach John Walsh, J.W. plays in an offense in which he is both under center and in the shot gun, which will place his adjustment to the next level ahead of many other high school quarterbacks who play in the shot gun only.

On April 29, running back Herschel Sims (Abilene, Texas) said yes to the Cowboys giving Mike Gundy and staff two of the top offensive prospects in the Lone Star state. Sims, in a cycle in Texas full of big time running back prospects, may be the most rounded of them all. His ability to catch the ball out of the backfield and at times line up in the slot and work fluidly will give Oklahoma State an all-around back that never has to leave the field. While he’s not as quick as current running back Kendall Hunter, the two have similar body types. Sims is in the neighborhood of 5-foot-8, 190-pounds.

Joining the talented duo as offensive commitments for the Cowboys is a pair of offensive linemen in 6-foot-5, 275-pound tackle Travis Cross (Plano, Texas/West) and guard/tackle Michael Bowie (Corsicana, Texas/Navarro J.C.) as well as receivers David Glidden (Mustang, OK), 5-foot-8, 165-pounds, and Johnny Haynes (Irving, Texas/MacArthur). Haynes, 5-foot-10, 183-pounds, will be a threat in the quick game. He plays as a running back after the catch rarely going down on first contact.

While the two Lone Star state stars get the most mention in the class, two defensive prospects have very high ceilings. Cornerback Miketavious Jones (Houston, Texas/North Shore) recently put on a show at the one-day camp in Stillwater running a 4.42-forty yard dash, a smoking 4.01 pro agility shuttle (5-10-5), a 10’2” broad jump and a 34-inch vertical leap. Add in what one sees on Friday nights, which is a physical style of play both in coverage and against the run and Oklahoma State snagged one of the top corner prospects in Texas. Jones, 5-foot-10, 160-pounds, needs only to add strength in the weight room and finish more plays with improved ball skills to become a top future corner in the Big 12.

Joining Jones as a high-ceiling defensive prospect in the Cowboys class is end Jimmy Bean (Denton, Texas/Guyer). The 6-foot-4, 218-pound long-armed prospect features a body type that will likely reach 6-foot-4, 260-pounds in time. Bean, still somewhat new to the game as a late bloomer, improved by leaps and bounds from the start of the season to the end during his junior campaign. He flashed the ability to chase the ball from sideline-to-sideline at times as well as the ability to develop into a quality pass rusher off the edge.

Oklahoma State has dipped into Southeast Region as well on the defensive side of the ball securing commitments from 6-foot-4, 255-pound end Ryan Robinson (Ellisville, MS/Jones County J.C.) and inside linebacker Demarcus Sherod (Decatur, Ga./Columbia). Sherod, 6-foot-2, 220-pounds, reportedly turned down offers from three SEC programs (Tennessee, South Carolina & Kentucky) in choosing Oklahoma State.

Five "steals" in the state of Texas

2010-06-29T13:24:00.000-07:00

The state of Texas is the ultimate evaluation state. With so many prospects committing to the power programs in February, March and April of their junior years, the ability for programs to enter the state or simply evaluate the rest of the state and find gems is a yearly occurrence. This is especially the case in the 2011 class.

Utah: The Utes have done a wonderful job evaluating the state and picking off a couple of very talented prospects already. Assistant coach Morgan Scalley has been a big part in snatching up a trio of prospects in the Houston area led by running back Jarrell Oliver (Sugar Land, Texas/Dulles). The 5-foot-9, 197-pound downhill back with terrific vision and quick feet in the hole has somewhat flown under the radar in the best running back cycle in recent memory featuring tip of the tongue names such as Malcolm Brown (Cibolo, Texas/Steele), Aaron Green (San Antonio, Texas/Madison), Brandon Williams (Brookshire, Texas/Royal) and Herschel Sims (Abilene, Texas). While Oliver hasn’t received the press that many others have enjoyed, the 1,000-yard rusher picked up offers from Michigan, Arizona State, Arizona, Arkansas, Kansas, Northwestern, Oregon State, Minnesota, Houston and others in addition to Utah in the May evaluation period. On June 21, Oliver instantly became the top steal in the Lone Star state to date committing to Utah.

Oliver is an impressive runner with good hands out of the backfield. He sees the play in front of him develop quickly and instinctively accelerates through the hole with burst. While he doesn’t have the ability to score from anywhere on the field at the next level, he finishes runs with powerful legs, ideal body lean and determination. He comes from a family of running backs with his father, Jarrod Oliver, having played at Oklahoma and cousins at New Mexico (Winslow Oliver) and Colorado (O.C. Oliver).

Utah has also received commitments from safety/receiver Joseph Bryant (Bryan, Texas) and safety Eric Rowe (Klein High). Bryant is a 6-foot-4, 195-pound hard-hitter with high-point ball skills.

Boise State: Boise State dipped into Texas and received a commitment on June 9 from versatile prospect Sam Ukwuachu (Pearland, Texas/Pearland High). The 6-foot-4, 202-pound defensive end and receiver hasn’t received the fan fare of others, but has high-ceiling potential to go with versatility in spades. His upside earned him offers from Arkansas, Baylor, Illinois, Louisville, Northwestern, Colorado, Houston and others along with serious interest from Texas A&M, Notre Dame, Oklahoma State, TCU and Purdue.

Physically, “UK” as his friends and coaches know him, is just beginning to fill out. He possesses long arms, quickness, reactive feet/movements and big play ability as a pass rusher. He was evaluated as a defensive end, outside linebacker in a 3-4 and flex tight end by programs from around the country.

Houston: Jack-of-all-trades C.J. McElroy was a huge get for the hometown Cougars June 10. The 5-foot-9, 172-pound two-sport star has flown under the radar despite being one of the areas top playmakers for the last two seasons. The son of former major league relief pitcher Chuck McElroy totaled more than 1,000 all-purpose yards in 2009 despite missing three games with a minor knee injury. Utah was the first to offer in the May evaluation period and was quickly followed by Arizona, Kentucky, Boise State, Wyoming and Houston. Programs such as Oklahoma State, Texas A&M and Kansas State also showed serious interest.

McElroy fits the Cougars high powered spread offense like a glove. He has the ability to play in the backfield, in the slot and will be a major factor in the punt and kick-off return game with punt returns being his specialty due to a very quick footed, darting make you miss style in the open field. Houston assistant coach Tony Levine recruited McElroy.

The Cougars also have two other prospects that fall into the steal category. Quarterback Bram Kohlhausen (Houston, Texas/Lamar) is one of two underrated throwers in the Houston area and defensive tackle Javion Slone (Port Arthur, Texas/Memorial) has high-ceiling potential.

Iowa State: The Cyclones gained a big commitment June 22 out of the Dallas area in safety/outside linebacker Jared Brackens (Mesquite, Texas/North Mesquite). The 6-foot-1, 200-pound prospect is one of the more under recruited prospects in the metroplex in the 2011 cycle. Brackens possesses high-point ball skills and timing, the ability to run sideline to sideline, quickness and closing speed to the ball and hard hitting ability to finish plays. At times, he can be a knock back tackler from the safety position although he likely projects to outside linebacker at the next level with the ability to play downhill as well as drop in coverage. Iowa State assistant Curtis Bray recruited Brackens.

Texas Tech: It’s tough to call a prospect that is committed to perennial bowl game participant a steal, but the versatile Le’Raven Clark (Rockdale, Texas) is just that. At 6-foot-6, 250-pounds with quickness, agility and 4.9-speed, the 3A star could project at a number of positions on the next level. Three-point stance tight end, defensive end, defensive tackle and offensive tackle are all possibilities. Clark stood 6-foot-4, 210-pounds when I first saw him as a sophomore and has blossomed into a high-ceiling offensive tackle prospect. Clark has very good feet, the ability to mirror in pass pro, the ability to run and reach the second level, ideal arm length and strong hands. His frame can carry more than 290-pounds in time as it continues to play catch up to his athletic ability.

Clark chose the Red Raiders over offers from Nebraska, Oklahoma State, TCU, Utah, Baylor, Houston, Louisville, Minnesota, Missouri and others.

Monday quick hitters

2010-06-28T04:41:00.000-07:00

Outside linebacker Trey Brown (Lancaster, Texas) is reporting offers from Oklahoma, Tulsa, Memphis, Houston, Tennessee, UTEP and North Texas. The 6-foot, 205-pound speedy linebacker is planning to attend some July camps, but hasn't set his schedule at this time.

Defensive tackle/offensive guard Mike Mustafa (Katy, Texas/Cinco Ranch) is receiving serious interest from Texas Tech, UTEP and Texas A&M among others from the region. The 6-foot-4, 300-pound transfer from Katy Morton Ranch camped at UTEP and will camp at Texas A&M later this summer.

Hard-hitting safety LeShundrick Morrison (Dallas/Bryan Adams) has offers from Baylor, Houston, Missouri, Texas Tech, Minnesota, memphis, UTEP and New Mexico State along with interest from Oklahoma State, Kansas State, Kansas and others. The 5-foot-11, 181-pound Morrison is looking at making an unofficial visit (hopefully camp) to Missouri, who is one of his favorites along with Houston and Baylor. He has already attended camp at UTEP (satellite camp).

DE/OLB Michael Moore (Dallas/Skyline) has offers from Kansas State, Kentucky, Minnesota, Iowa State, Memphis, Louisiana Tech and UTEP with Texas A&M continuing to show interest. Iowa State, Kentucky and Minnesota have emerged as the teams to beat early on for the 6-foot-1, 215-pound versatile prospect.

Underrated DE Marquel Bryant (Dallas/Skyline) has offers from Texas Tech, Kansas State, SMU, Colorado State and UTEP according to an assistant coach at Skyline.. The 6-foot-3, 219-pound Bryant features a quick first step, the balance and agility to quickly turn the corner and a quickly developing frame with long arms.

Under the radar receiver Lovett Gibson (Cedar Hill, Texas) has offers from Minnesota, Colorado, UTEP, North Texas and Western Kentucky. The 6-foot-2, 181-pound soft handed receiver feels like Baylor and Boise State are also close to offering. He lists Minnesota as his current leader, but offers from Baylor and/or Boise State would shake his list up quite a bit. He has attended camps at Baylor and UTEP (satellite camp)

Texas still on top in 2011

2010-06-22T07:21:00.000-07:00

The first wave of June camps has come and gone with many programs taking big steps in building their 2011 classes. One thing that hasn’t changed since the June 2 national rankings is the team on top. The Texas Longhorns added another big time prospect on Saturday continue to build their lead in the race for the nations top class.

1.Texas (21 commitments)

The Longhorns hit another recruiting home run with their most recent commitment. For the second year in a row, Mack Brown and staff reeled in the top prospect from the state of Oklahoma. Cornerback Josh Turner (Oklahoma City/Millwood) made the call on Saturday. In Turner, Texas is getting a top national cornerback prospect. At 6-feet, 175-pounds with very quick feet, 4.45-straight line speed, hip flexibility, the ability to play the ball in the air and elite level closing speed, Turner has emerged as one of the top defensive back prospects in the country with offers from many of the top programs in the country.

The 2011 class is headlined by an outstanding group of offensive linemen. Guard Sedrick Flowers (Houston, Texas/North Shore), 6-foot-3, 285-pounds, may be the top interior line prospect in the country, while tackles Christian Westerman (Chandler, Az./Hamilton) and Garrett Greenlea (Houston, Texas/Klein Collins) are two of the nations best with Westerman a probable five-star prospect. Tackle Josh Cochran (Hallsville, Texas) has a lot of upside at 6-foot-6, 270-pounds featuring quick, reactive feet and guard Marcus Hutchins comes from talent rich program DeSoto located south of Dallas.

Athlete Quandre Diggs (Angleton, Texas) and defensive tackle Desmond Jackson (Spring, Texas/Westfield) are top 50 type prospects nationally. Jackson, 6-foot-1, 273-pounds, will play his high school position at the next level, but the future position of the 5-foot-9, 194-pound Diggs is up in the air. The brother of San Diego Chargers cornerback Quentin Jammer could line up at running back, slot receiver, nickel back or safety at the next level. Both will play in the Under Armour All-American game in January 2011.

Turner is just one of several impressive defensive back recruits in the class. Safety Sheroid Evans (Sugar Land, Texas/Dulles), 6-foot, 180-pounds, could be the fastest player in the country with a season best 10.39 100-meter time and 20.76 200-meters. Evans will get looks at safety and corner. Joining Evans in the secondary is likely nickel back Leroy Scott (Houston, Texas/South Houston) and safety Mykkele Thompson (San Antonio, Texas/Stevens).

Running back/full back Joe Bergeron (Mesquite, Texas/North Mesquite) may be the most underrated player in the class. The 6-foot, 228-pounder has terrific hands, power and quick feet for a big back. If not Bergeron, outside linebacker Kendall Thompson (Carthage, Texas) will take that honor. The 6-foot-3, 234-pound Thompson can play in space, takes instinctive angles and has terrific hands.

With prospects such as running back Malcolm Brown (Cibolo, Texas/Steele), tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins (Gig Harbour, WA), running back Aaron Green (San Antonio, Texas/Madison) and others still considering the defending Big 12 champs, expect the Longhorns to finish with another top three class.

2.LSU (11 commitments)

The Tigers are cleaning up in state and it’s a great year to dominate in Louisiana. The 2011 class in state is a special one drawing comparisons to a couple of past classes that produced several NFL players. Defensive tackle Anthony Johnson (New Orleans, La./O. Perry Walker) could be the top interior lineman in the country with a blend of power, quickness, speed and hand strength. Left tackle La’El Collins (Baton Rouge, La./Redemptorist) is among the top three offensive tackles in the class, while receiver Jarvis Landry (Lutcher, La.) and running back Kenny Hilliard (Patterson, La.) are among the best in the country at their position. Hilliard is on pace to shatter the state rushing record entering his senior season.

The immense talent in the Tigers class doesn’t stop with the headliners. Running back Jeremy Hill (Baton Rouge, La./Redemptorist), WR/CB Alonzo Lewis (St. James, La.) and offensive guards Trai Turner (New Orleans, La./St. Augustine) and Corey White (Baton Rouge, La./Capitol) are four more members of the special class in state.

As is usually the case, Les Miles and staff dipped into the Lone Start state for a top prospect. Linebacker Trevon Randle (League City, Texas/Clear Springs), 6-foot-1, 205-pounds with 4.6-speed, is one of the most athletic, hardest hitting defenders in Texas.

3.Alabama (14 commitments)

Alabama continues to build on the momentum of the national title with June bringing two more commitments. Offensive guard/center Isaac Luatua (La Mirada, Ca.) is a perfect fit for the power running game of the Crimson Tide. The 6-foot-2, 300-pounder picked Alabama over offers from UCLA, Tennessee and Arkansas among others. Joining Luatua as an early summer commitment is inside linebacker Vinnie Sunseri (Tuscaloosa, Ala./Northridge), the son of assistant coach Sal Sunseri.

Receiver is the strength of the class so far with commits from speedy playmaker Bradley Sylve (Port Sulphur, La./South Plaquemines), 6-foot-3 Marvin Shinn (Prichard, Ala./Vigor), physical and very athletic Danny Woodson (Mobile, Ala./LeFlore) and Daryl Collins (Gadsden, Ala.). Sylve, Shinn and Woodson will be three of the top ranked pass catchers in the country.

Sylve and Shinn will play in the 2011 Under Armour All-American game.

Throw in the vastly underrated tight end Malcolm Faciane (Picayune, Ms.), 6-foot-6, 260-pounds, and the Crimson Tide have an abundance of weapons to incorporate in the future.

Safety Hasean Clinton-Dix (Orlando, Fla./Dr. Phillips), an Under Armour All-American, and outside linebacker Brent Calloway (Russelville, Ala.) are among the best at their positions in the country, while defensive tackle LaMichael Fanning (Auburn, Ala.), 6-foot-6, 275-pounds, oozes high-ceiling potential. Defensive end D.J. Pettway (Pensacola, Fla./Catholic) is one of the top defensive linemen in Florida featuring elite level foot quickness for his size, 6-foot-3, 255-pounds.

Alabama has a very good chance to finish with the nations top ranked class when the ink dries in February. The Crimson Tide remains major players for a number of the top prospects from coast-to-coast.

4.Oklahoma (16 commitments)

The Sooners have enjoyed a June run of commitments led by three very talented line prospects. Oklahoma stayed in state gobbling up tackle Dylan Dismuke (Duncan, OK), 6-foot-6, 290-pounds, and headed north gaining a commitment from massive tackle Derek Farniok (Sioux Falls, SD/Washington). The 6-foot-9, 320-pound Farniok had offers from Wisconsin and UCLA among others. Rounding out the line prospects is 6-foot-5, 280-pound defensive tackle Jordan Phillips. Phillips is fluid, quick and chases the ball very well for his size.

Cornerback Brandon Carter (Euless, Texas/Trinity) rounds out the foursome of June commitments. The 5-foot-10, 163-pounder picked the Sooners over offers from Duke, Wake Forest and Minnesota.

Oklahoma got their quarterback from in state in smooth lefty Kendal Thompson (Moore, Okl./Southmoore), who is the son of former Sooner signal caller Charles Thompson. The 6-foot-1, 175-pound Under Armour All-American is joined in the class by a number of the top prospects in the Lone Star state headlined by defensive end and Under Armour All-American Nathan Hughes (Spring, Texas/Klein Oak), U.S. Army All-American and receiver Trey Metoyer (Whitehouse, Texas), bursting and darting running back Brandon Williams (Brookshire, Texas/Royal) and a host of others. Williams will also play in the Under Armour All-American game in January.

Defensive tackles Marquis Anderson (Cibolo, Texas/Steele) and Jordan Wade (Round Rock, Texas/Stony Point) provide the Sooners with a pair of talented interior prospects. Wade, 6-foot-3, 290-pounds, has athleticism in spades. Defensive end Cooper Washington (Muleshoe, Texas) is another athletic small school lineman the Sooners have snagged out of Panhandle.

Athlete Danzel Williams (Arlington, Texas/Martin) could line up at safety, corner or running back for Bob Stoops and staff. The 5-foot-8, 185-pound Williams was an all-state pick in the secondary as a junior and will play in the 2011 Under Armour All-American game.

While Oklahoma won’t have the big numbers of some others, another top 10 class is a sound bet.

5.Ohio State (15 commitments)

The Buckeyes already had a very impressive start to the 2011 class with 11 talented commitments headed into the summer, but a pledge from one of the nations top quarterbacks and three others have pushed Ohio State into the top five. Simply put, signal caller Braxton Miller (Huber Heights, OH/Wayne) is one of the top prospects in the entire 2011 class. A true dual threat quarterback, the 6-foot-2, 185-pound Miller is a huge get for Jim Tressel and staff.

Miller is joined by receivers Devin Smith (Massillon, OH/Washington) and Evan Spencer (Vernon Hills, IL/Vernon Hills High) as well as defensive tackle Joel Hale (Greenwood, In./Center Grove) as June commitments.

The Buckeyes began their impressive haul by building a class full of big time defensive line prospects. Defensive tackle Michael Bennett (Centerville, Ohio), end Kenny Hayes (Toledo, Ohio/Whitmer), end Steve Miller (Canton, Ohio/McKinley) and end Chase Ferris (Elyria, Ohio) make up the best group of defensive line prospects in any class to this point.

Add in three offensive linemen, led by guard Brian Bobek (Palatine, Ill./Fremd), and the Buckeyes are stockpiling talent on both lines and filling needs very well in a program that is built on physical play.

Ohio State has also dipped into the Sunshine State for a pair of prospects as they look to do yearly. Safety Jeremy Cash (Plantation, Fla.) is one of the states top defensive backs as well as one of the states most physical players. Tight end Jeff Heuerman (Naples, Fla./Barron Collier) is a blocking specialist.

Ohio State is likely to remain in the top 10 throughout the 2011 recruiting cycle.

6.Florida State (13 commitments)

The Seminoles continue to put together an impressive class. College football’s dominant program of the 1990’s picked up a big commitment last week in receiver Rashad Greene (Fort Lauderdale, Fla./St. Thomas Aquinas). The 6-foot-, 175-pounder is one of the most explosive athletes in the Southeast Region having run low 4.4-forty times on a consistent basis along with ultra quick shuttle times and a 37-inch vertical.

Along with Greene, the Seminoles picked up a quarterback commitment in recent days. Jacob Coker (Mobile, Ala./St. Paul’s) isn’t on the radar like others in the class, but is a 6-foot-5, 210-pound strong-armed thrower.

Secondary is the strength of the class. Safety/corner Keelin Smith (Port St. Lucie, Fla./Treasure Coast), safety Cortez Davis (Daytona Beach, Fla./Mainland), safety Lamarcus Brutus (Port St. Lucie, Fla./Treasure Coast) and Tyler Hunter (Valdosta, Ga./Lowndes) will provide Florida State a boost in the secondary.

Defensive tackle prospects Nile Lawrence-Stample (Davie, Fla./Nova) and Derrick Mitchell (Jacksonville, Fla./First Coast) are athletic, imposing prospects. Lawrence-Stample was a hit at the Davie Under Armour combine in March with combination of agility, strength and speed. Mitchell’s father played basketball at Florida State.

Trey Pettis is one of the top center prospects in the country, while athlete Karlos Williams (Davenport, Fla./Ridge) brings versatility to the class.

Florida State is positioned nicely to hit a couple of home runs and finish with a class that could remain in the top 10.

7.Florida (8 commitments)

Florida entered the summer with four terrific prospects and has quickly doubled that number, most recently adding uber athletic outside linebacker prospect Ryan Shazier (Plantation, Fla.). The 6-foot-1, 202-pounder with a non-stop motor and very quick first step has legit 4.5-speed and a 38-inch vertical.

Prior to Shazier, Florida picked up even more speed and playmaking ability in receiver Javares McRoy (Lakeland, Fla./Lakeland High). The explosive 5-foot-9, 168-pound McRoy had been committed to Texas Tech, where his brother inked in February of 2010. McRoy can score from anywhere on the field whether by catch, run or in the return game featuring 10.6 100-meter speed and quickness is spades.

Joining the impressive duo as June commitments for Urban Meyer and staff are offensive lineman Tommy Jordan (Ridgefield, CT) and fullback Hunter Joyer (Tampa, Fla./Catholic).

The Gators class is led by super quarterback prospect Jeff Driskel (Oviedo, Fla.). The 6-foot-3, 224-pound Driskel has dominated at combines and Elite 11 this spring both athletically and as a thrower of the football. The ball jumps out of his hand with effortless velocity with each impressive throw proceeded by quick, athletic drops and reactions.

Tight end A.C. Leonard (Jacksonville, Fla./University Christian) was dominant at Badger 7-on-7 in Tampa. At 6-foot-2 ½, 232-pounds, the long armed prospect made tough catches in traffic for touchdowns seem effortless. Leonard is one of several top tight notch tight end prospects in a loaded Southeast Region.

Defensive end Jeoffrey Pagan (Ashville, NC), 6-foot-3, 260-pounds, brings versatility with the ability to play end or tackle at the next level as one of the top line prospects in the country. Athlete De’Ante Saunders (Deland, Fla.) is one of the regions best.

Expect the Gators to finish with another top 10 class, if not top five.

8.USC (8 commitments)

Many wondered if prospects would immediately jump ship with the crushing NCAA sanctions that were handed down earlier this month. So far, so good for the Trojans, who have picked up a pair of commitments this month. Quarterback Cody Kessler (Bakersfield, Ca./Centennial) is one of the nations best signal callers, while offensive guard Marcus Martin (Los Angeles, Ca./Crenshaw) is a high school teammate of commitment De’Anthony Thomas (Los Angeles, Ca./Crenshaw).

Thomas, 5-foot-9, 160-pounds, is one of the nations best. While he is a solid prospect as an all-purpose running back with big play ability, he has the ability to be a special player on the defensive side of the ball and in the return game. Pound for pound, Thomas may be the most physical player in the country.

Defensive tackle Antwaun Woods (Woodland Hills, Ca./Taft) will require a double team and defensive end Jalen Grimble (Las Vegas, Nevada/Bishop Gorman) is of the best on the West Coast.

QB Max Wittek (Santa Ana, Ca./Mater Dei) will continue to throw to high school teammate Victor Blackwell at the next level. Blackwell, 6-foot-1, 185-pounds, has big time ability.

The Trojans ability to build on their class will be interesting to watch. Will the eight current commitments stick long term and just how much will Lane Kiffin and staff be able to build on their impressive start minus the numbers others will enjoy.

9. Stanford (17 commitments)

The Cardinal has dipped into 10 states to build their 2011 class, including most recent commits from inside linebacker James Vaughters (Tucker, Ga.) and running back Remound Wright (Fort Wayne, In./Bishop Dwehger). Vaughters, a 2011 Under Armour All-American, is one of the top linebackers in the country.

Offensive guard Brendon Austin (Parker, Co./Chaparral), defensive end Charlie Hopkins (Spokane, Wa./Gonzaga Prep) and linebacker Anthony Sarao (Absecon, NJ/Holy Spirit) are all among the top prospects in their states.

A pair of running backs from Stanford’s home state are also headliners. Amir Carlisle (Sunnyvale, Ca./Kings Academy) and Kelsey Young (Norco, Ca.) will be speed to the Stanford program.

Left-hander Evan Crower (San Diego, Ca./St. Augustine) is one of the more underrated quarterback prospects in the country.

10. Nebraska (11 commitments)

Nebraska continues to build an impressive class coming off an impressive season. A June 19 commit from athletic quarterback Bubba Starling (Gardner, Ks./Edgerton) and June 17 pledge from defensive back Daniel Davie (Beatrice, NE) keep the Cornhuskers in the top barely holding off a hard charging Clemson program who picked up big time commitments in recent days.

Starling, 6-foot-5, 195-pounds, is not only one of the top signal callers in the Midwest Region, but also one of the top pure athletes with 4.5-speed and quickness.

Offensive line is the strength of the class led by two of the nations best in Tyler Moore (Clearwater, Fla./Countryside) and Ryan Klachko (Springfield, Il./Sacred Heart). The jewel of the class to date, however, is athlete Jamal Tuner (Arlington, Texas/Sam Houston). The 6-foot, 175-pound Turner is a big play waiting to happen with the ball in his hands. He has quickness, straight-line speed and the ability to make defenders miss in small spaces. He could play receiver or corner on the next level along with being a factor in the return game.

Fast rising corner Tevin Mitchel (Mansfield, Texas/Legacy) emerged in the spring as one of the Lone Star states best. The 6-foot, 172-pound Mitchel has the ability to develop into a lock down corner.

Friday quick hitters

2010-06-18T05:10:00.001-07:00

Boykin jumps on TCU offer

TCU picked up a key commitment this week in quarterback/athlete Trevone Boykin (Mesquite, Texas/West Mesquite). The 6-foot, 203-pounder becomes the 11th commit for the Horned Frogs. He picked the Mountain West champs over an offer from UTEP and interest from Baylor, who was closing in on offering.

The impressive class for head coach Gary Patterson includes three prospects that are in the top 50 in the state. Outside linebacker Derryck Gildon (Arlington, Texas/Martin) is one of the top linebacker prospects in the Lone Star state despite a knee injury last season. Tackle Shayvion Hatten (Daingerfield, Texas), 6-foot-4, 365-pounds, and safety prospect Kolby Griffin (Houston, Texas/St. Pius X) are both two of the states best at their positions. Griffin could play corner, but is likely to find a home at safety and call the defensive signals for TCU.

Boykin not the lone West Mesquite prospect

West Mesquite has two other FBS prospects in addition to Boykin. Receiver and 15-4A first team all-district selection Gary Owens Jr. (5-10, 170) and receiver/defensive back Fred Ngwu (5-11, 175) are both closing in on their first offers. Owens Jr. camped at Baylor recently and is expected to be offered by Tulsa in the near future. Ngwu is likely to be offered by Rice in the coming weeks.

Grant up to eight offers

Diminutive slot receiver Jakeem Grant (Mesuite, Texas/Horn) continues to pick up offers on a near weekly basis. The 5-foot-7, 165-pound explosive playmaker picked up an offer from Tulsa this week bringing his total to eight. Tulsa follows Iowa State, Colorado State, Wake Forest, Wyoming, Louisiana Tech, New Mexico and Louisiana-Monroe in offering.

Grant is one of four FBS prospects in the 2011 class at Mesquite Horn. Receiver Jacorey Shepherd is an Iowa commit, while linebacker Kyle Boyd and defensive end Stephon Sanders have a number of offers. In fact, the 6-foot-3, 230-pound Sanders has 14 written offers from the likes of Wake Forest, Virginia, Kansas, Arkansas, Vanderbilt, Houston, Iowa State, Utah, SMU, Wyoming, Rice, Air Force, New Mexico and North Texas.

2012 has top two

One of the top 2012 prospects in Texas is receiver/safety Kiante Griffin (Lewisville, Texas/Hebron). the 6-foot, 200-pound physical, quick and fast prospect put together a solid sophomore campaign hauling in 32 passes for 763 yards and 11 touchdowns. After continuing to impress in the spring, Griffin received a number of camp invites from the top programs in the Southwest Region. On June 13, he camped at Texas and is expected to camp at Oklahoma and Oklahoma State this summer. He lists Texas and Oklahoma as his top two.

McNeil camping

Star 2012 safety LaDarrell McNeil (Dallas/Maceo Smith) camped at Texas June 13 and will be making the rounds the rest of the month. He is scheduled to go to Florida State June 18-19 and USC for the Trojans Rising Stars camp as well as a stop at UCLA in late June. McNeil recorded more than 80 tackles as a freshman two seasons ago and has already been a two time all-district election.

Somerset duo close to being offered

Somerset, near San Antonio, has three prospects that will ink with FBS programs in February. Safety/outside linebacker Will Harlos (6-foot-3, 200) has already committed to Wake Forest, while quarterback Stevie Joe Dorman and tight end/H-back Jacob Hillyer are closing in on their first offers. Dorman will camp at UTEP (in Austin) soon with the Miners showing serious interest. The 6-foot-3, 190-pounder is also receiving interest from Colorado State and Houston. Hillyer, who caught more than 70 passes for over 1,000-yards last season, is close to being offered by Colorado State along with interest from UTEP and Houston among others. Hillyer is 6-foot-3, 195-pounds.

Tuesday news and notes

2010-06-15T10:40:00.000-07:00

Cornerback and Oklahoma State commit Miketavious Jones (Houston/North Shore) tore it up at a recent Cowboys one-day camp. The 5-foot-10, 160-pounder ran a blistering 4.01 pro agility shuttle, a 4.42 forty yard dash, broad jumped 10'2" and leaped 34-inches. Jones has one of the highest upsides in the Lone Star state in the 2011 class having not started to physically develop yet. While slight of build, he is one of the most physical players pound for pound in the Southwest Region.

The corner that will start opposite from Jones for North Shore in 2010 will likely be 2012 prospect Keon Harvison. The 5-foot-11, 165-pound long armed corner received high praise for his recent performances at Oklahoma State and LSU camps. Harvison is one of 7-8 FBS prospects in the 2012 class at Houston area power.

North Shore 2011 fast rising receiver Devante Davis entered the summer fresh off of a much improved spring and a 5A state title in the triple jump with a leap of 50'4.5". The 6-foot-3, 195-pounder continued his run of impressive performances at recent one-day camps at LSU and Texas A&M. He ran 4.58-forty yard dashes at both camps as well as a 4.2-pro agility shuttle at LSU. He also posted a 35-inch vertical and broad jumped 10'1" in Baton Rouge. After the strong performances, LSU and Texas A&M are strongly considering offering the two-sport prospect. Memphis and Louisiana-Lafayette have already offered. Oklahoma State joins the Tigers and Aggies in showing serious interest.

Another standout at a recent Oklahoma State camp (Sunday) was athlete Jason Frimpong (Irving, Texas/MacArthur). The 5-foot-11, 175-pounder has offers on the table from Wisconsin, Memphis, Tulsa and North Texas along with interest from several Big 12, Pac-10 and Mountain West programs. Frimpong plays quarterback for MacArthur.

Georgia offers Texas WR, Barnett a traveling man

2010-06-13T05:28:00.001-07:00

Montgomery on the rise

The Georgia Bulldogs have offered Dallas St. Mark's receiver and Stanford commit Ty Montgomery according to a source close to the 6-f00t-0, 200-pound prospect. Montgomery is a soft commitment with a serious interest in California. He will be attending the USC Rising Stars camp and making an unofficial visit to UCLA in late June.

Barnett making rounds

Tight end Chris Barnett (Dallas/Maceo Smith) was at Oklahoma State on Saturday and will be tripping to Florida State June 18-19. The 6-foot-5, 244-pounder will also head to the West Coast for the USC Rising Stars camp and make an unofficial visit to UCLA in late June. The brother of Texas cornerback Eyron Barnett amped at Texas June 6. He decommitted from Oklahoma June 7th.

He claims more than 20 offers from programs from coast-to-coast.

Quick hitters from Texas City 7-on-7 today

2010-06-12T13:01:00.000-07:00

Here are some quick hitters updates from Texas City 7-on-7 Saturday.

Pearland Dawson receiver Marcus Vaughn has offers from Arizona State and Houston with Baylor closing in. Oklahoma State, TCU and many others recruiting the 6-foot-1, 200-pounder with 4.47-speed. Vaughn is one of the top few receiver prospects in the Lone Star state in the 2011 class.

Beaumont Central Athlete Damon Heard has a verbal offer from SMU. The 5-foot-8, 175-pounder with 4.5 speed is being recruited by a number of programs in C-USA and the Mountain West.

Beaumont Central receiver and tight end prospect Devin Ogletree has an offer from Louisiana-Lafayette. The 6-foot-3, 220-pounder will camp at Texas Sunday along with teammates Quentin Cantu and Jacoby Collier. Cantu, 5-foot-8, 170-pounds, is a 2011 corner. Collier, 5-foot-10, 185-pounds with 4.55-speed, is a 2012 running back prospect.

Friendswood 2012 tight end Trevor Stevens, 6-foot-3, 237-pounds, camped at TCU last Friday, Texas A&M Sunday and SMU on Monday. Stevens has really come on this spring elevating himself to a legit FBS prospect with a productive junior season. He showed soft hands on Saturday. Fellow 2012 Friendswood prospect Jonathan Johnson, 5-foot-7, 165, 4.5, is receiving serious recruiting attention from Utah. Johnson is one of the top returning playmakers in the Houston area. He will play running back and slot receiver in 2010.

La Porte running back and Houston commitment Anthony Webb (5-11, 175, 4.55) listed himself as a soft commitment today. Colorado has offered in addition to Houston. Webb, who has played running back and corner for LaPorte the last two seasons, camped at Texas A&M last weekend (Sunday) and is receiving interest from the Aggies and many other FBS programs.

La Porte 2013 center/guard Maurice Morris camped at LSU Sunday through Wednesday. He intends to take in a second LSU camp late in the summer. Morris, 6-foot-3, 340-pounds with a size 17-shoe, is likely to start at center for the Bulldogs in 2010.

Angleton 2012 athlete Ryan Jackson will camp at Texas Sunday and Houston in late June. The 5-foot-11, 180-pound jet with 4.45-speed is the cousin of Texas commit Quandre Diggs and San Diego Chargers corner Quentin Jammer. He played mostly on defense at safety and outside linebacker as a sophomore, but will take half of his snaps at running back in 2010.

Port Arthur Memorial 2011 receiver K'Sean Wesley, 5-foot-11, 180-pounds, will camp at TCU and Houston this month. His teammate, 2012 athlete Nate Holmes, will camp at Texas Sunday. Holmes is 6-foot, 165-pounds with legit 4.45-speed.

Best in Texas

2010-06-08T09:31:00.000-07:00

Here is a look at my best in Texas, my home state, by position. The list is the best, whether thee prospects are members of the 2011 or 2012 classes. Some of the players are projected at their position on the next level.

Offensive unit

Quarterback- David Ash (Belton), 6-foot-3, 205-pounds- TEXAS COMMIT

Running back- Jonathan Gray (Aledo), 5-foot-11, 191-pounds- Class of 2012 and Malcolm Brown (Cibolo Steele), 6-foot, 215-pounds

Wide receiver- Trey Metoyer (Whitehouse), 6-2, 201-pounds- OKLAHOMA COMMIT and Jaxon Shipley (Brownwood), 6-foot-1, 178-pounds- TEXAS COMMIT

Tight end- Max Stevenson (Klein Oak), 6-foot-5, 233-pounds- OKLAHOMA COMMIT

Offensive tackle- Garrett Greenlea (Klein Collins), 6-foot-6, 295-pounds- TEXAS COMMIT and Curtis Riser (DeSoto), 6-foot-5, 275-pounds- Class of 2012

Offensive guard- Sedrick Flowers (North Shore), 6-foot-3, 285-pounds- TEXAS COMMIT and Shayvion Hatten (Daingerfield), 6-foot-4, 260-pounds- TCU COMMIT

Center- Mikey Matthews (Fort Bend Elkins), 6-foot-2, 255-pounds- Class of 2012

All-purpose- Quandre Diggs (Angleton), 5-foot-9, 194-pounds- TEXAS COMMIT and Jamal Turner (Arlington Sam Houston), 6-foot, 175-pounds- NEBRASKA COMMIT

Defensive unit

Defensive tackle- Desmond Jackson (Spring Westfield), 6-foot-1, 274-pounds- TEXAS COMMIT and Malcolm Brown (Brenham), 6-foot-2, 275-pounds- Class of 2012

Defensive end- Nathan Hughes (Klein Oak), 6-foot-6, 252-pounds- OKLAHOMA COMMIT and Mario Edwards (Prosper), 6-foot-2, 248-pounds- Class of 2012

Inside linebacker- Steve Edmond (Daingerfield), 6-foot-3, 220-pounds- TEXAS COMMIT

Outside linebacker- Kendall Thompson (Carthage), 6-foot-3, 234-pounds- TEXAS COMMIT and Trevon Randle (Clear Springs), 6-foot-1, 205-pounds- LSU COMMIT

Safety- Sheroid Evans (Fort Bend Dulles), 6-foot-1, 183-pounds- TEXAS COMMIT and LaDarrell McNeil (Dallas Maceo Smith), 6-foot-1, 183-pounds- Class of 2012

Corner- Charles Jackson (Klein Collins), 5-foot-9, 173-pounds and Leroy Scott (South Houston), 5-foot-10, 190-pounds- TEXAS COMMIT

Best nationally by position

2010-06-07T11:01:00.000-07:00

Here’s a look at my top prospects from the class of 2011 nationally at each position. Some players are at positions I project them to play at the next level.

Top quarterback- Jeff Driskel (Oviedo, Fla./Hagerty), 6-foot-3, 224-pounds-FLORIDA COMMIT

Runner-up- Braxton Miller (Huber Heights, Ohio/Wayne), 6-foot-1, 185-pounds-OHIO STATE COMMIT

Top running back- Isiah Crowell (Columbus, Ga./Carver), 5-foot-11, 195-pounds

Runner up- Malcolm Brown (Cibolo, Texas/Steele), 6-foot, 215-pounds

Top wide receiver- George Farmer (Gardena, Ca./Serra), 6-foot-1, 190-pounds

Runner up- Jarvis Landry (Lutcher, La.), 5-foot-11, 180-pounds- LSU COMMIT

Top tight end- Nick O’Leary (Palm Beach, Fla./Dwyer), 6-foot-4, 233-pounds

Runner up- Jay Rome (Valdosta, Ga.), 6-foot-5, 240-pounds

Top offensive tackle- Cyrus Kouandijo (Hyattsville, Md./DeMatha), 6-foot-6, 320-pounds

Runner up- Christian Westerman (Chandler, Az./Hamilton), 6-foot-5, 280-pounds- TEXAS COMMIT and La'El Collins (Baton Rouge, La./Redemptorist), 6-foot-5, 279-pounds- LSU COMMIT

Top interior offensive lineman- Sedrick Flowers (Houston, Texas/North Shore), 6-foot-3, 285-pounds- TEXAS COMMIT

Runner up- Cyrus Hobbi (Scottsdale, Az./Saguaro), 6-foot-3, 280-pounds

Top defensive end- Jadeveon Clowney (Rock Hill, SC/South Pointe), 6-foot-6, 240-pounds

Runner up- Aaron Lynch (Cape Coral, Fla.), 6-foot-6, 256-pounds

Top defensive tackle- Tim Jernigan (Lake City, Fla./Columbia), 6-foot-2, 267-pounds

Runner up- Anthony Johnson (New Orleans, La./O. Perry Walker), 6-foot-3, 280-pounds- LSU COMMIT

Top inside linebacker- Steve Edmond (Daingerfield, Texas), 6-foot-3, 220-pounds- TEXAS COMMIT

Runner up- Tony Steward (St. Augustine, Fla./Menendez), 6-foot-2, 226-pounds

Top outside linebacker- Stephone Anthony (Wadesboro, NC/Anson), 6-foot-3, 225-pounds

Runner up- Lawrence Thomas (Detroit, Mich./Renaissance), 6-foot-4, 230-pounds- MICHIGAN STATE COMMIT

Top safety- Hasean Clinton-Dix (Orlando, Fla./Dr. Phillips), 6-foot, 195-pounds- ALABAMA COMMIT

Runner up-

Top cornerback- Sammy Watkins (Fort Myers, Fla./South Fort Myers), 6-foot-1, 175-pounds

Runner up- Josh Turner (Oklahoma City, Okl./Millwood), 6-foot, 170-pounds

Top athlete- James Wilder (Tampa, Fla./Plant), 6-foot-2, 218-pounds

Runner up- Quan Bray (Hogansville, Ga./Callaway), 5-foot-11, 180-pounds and De’Anthony Thomas (Los Angeles, Cal./Crenshaw), 5-foot-9, 155-pounds- USC COMMIT and Quandre Diggs (Angleton, Texas), 5-foot-9, 194-pounds- TEXAS COMMIT

Auburn offers Johnson, Kentucky Moore

2010-06-07T10:02:00.000-07:00

Receiver Thomas Johnson (Dallas/Skyline) will be one of the most heavily recruited prospects nation wide in the 2012 class. The 6-foot, 175-pound explosive prospect is in line to receive more than 10 written offers on September 1 from the likes of Texas A&M, USC, Oklahoma and many others. On Monday, he picked up a verbal offer from the Auburn Tigers.

Johnson played quarterback at Arlington The Oakridge school as a sophomore before transferring to Skyline for the spring semester. He darted and cut his way to more than 1,600 rushing yards in 2009 along with more than 1,000 passing.

The 2011 class at Skyline features a number of prospects expected to sign with FBS in February. One of the best players in the class, versatile defensive end and outside linebacker Michael Moore (6-1, 215, 4.65) picked up his third offer over the weekend. Kentucky is the latest to offer joining Minnesota and Iowa State.

Sunday quick hitters

2010-06-06T08:28:00.001-07:00

Safety Jaylon Finner (Missouri City, Texas/Elkins) has offers from Houston, Rice and Baylor. Arkansas and Kansas are likely to offer in the near future. Finner is 5-foot-10, 175.

Slot receiver/corner Dasmond Gorrer (Austin, Texas/Austin High) has offers from Colorado State and Texas State as well as interest from Texas A&M. His brother, corner Danny Gorrer, played at Texas A&M.

Fort Bend Hightower has a handful of FBS prospects as usual. Running back John Parham, 5-foot-10, 185-pounds, has an offer from SMU, while offensive tackle Chayse Hightower has an offer from Prairie View A&M. Both are receiving interest from a number of regional programs. The top prospect at the talent rich 5A school is 2012 athlete Bralon Addison. The 5-foot-9, 175-pound quick and elusive prospect camped at TCU Saturday, is at Texas A&M today and will be at Texas June 13. He plays quarterback for Hightower, but projects to corner or slot receiver at the next level. Addison was a standout at Nike NFTC in Baton Rouge recently.

Brenham offensive tackle John Poehlmann, 6-foot-5, 250-pounds, has offers from Virginia, Baylor, Colorado, New Mexico, Rice and Tulane. His brother, Luke Poehlmann , plays left tackle at Texas,

Defensive end Quinton Bradley (San Antonio/Roosevelt) has an offer from Colorado State. Baylor, Texas Tech and Texas A&M are keeping tabs on the 6-foot-3, 225-pounder. He is likely to camp at all three Big 12 programs this summer.

Two more offers for Weatherford

2010-06-03T11:20:00.000-07:00

Quarterback Stephen Weatherford (Land O'Lakes, Fla.) picked up two more offers in recent days. Cincinnati and Southern Miss are the latest programs to offer the 6-foot-3, 205-pound right-hander. South Florida, East Carolina, Iowa State, SMU and North Texas previously offered the brother of former Florida State signal caller Drew Weatherford. His family have strong ties to SMU, but South Florida appears to be the front runner at this point.

Weatherford threw for 360 yards and four touchdowns in Land O'Lakes spring game last week. He passed for 2,052 yards and 27 touchdowns to go with more than 400 yards rushing as a junior.

Seventh offer for Cooper

2010-06-03T06:46:00.000-07:00

Defensive end Michael Cooper (The Woodlands, Texas) picked up his seventh offer Wednesday night. Nevada offered becoming the seventh program to offer the 6-foot-5, 231-pounder joining UNLV, Tulane, Rice, Wyoming, Air Force and Miami Of Ohio.

Beginning next week, the younger brother of UNLV signee Perry Cooper, will attend mini-camps at Texas A&M, Missouri and Arizona for sure. Other camp possibilities include Arizona State, Duke, Mississippi State, Arkansas, Virginia, Kansas, Kansas State, Vanderbilt, UCLA and California.

Cooper is being recruited as a tight end and defensive end.

2011's Top Classes

2010-06-02T16:13:00.000-07:00

The 2011 recruiting cycle is well underway with a number of programs already building top notch recruiting classes. Last season’s national championship game participants are off to great starts as expected, while many of the nations top programs are cleaning up as usual.

Here is a look at the nations top recruiting classes headed into the summer:

1.Texas (20 commitments)

Hard to know where to start and end with the Longhorns class. Mack Brown and staff have reeled in 20 commitments led by an outstanding group of offensive linemen. Guard Sedrick Flowers (Houston, Texas/North Shore), 6-foot-3, 285-pounds, may be the top interior line prospect in the country, while tackles Christian Westerman (Chandler, Az./Hamilton) and Garrett Greenlea (Houston, Texas/Klein Collins) are two of the nations best. Tackle Josh Cochran (Hallsville, Texas) has a lot of upside at 6-foot-6, 270-pounds and guard Marcus Hutchins comes from talent rich program DeSoto located south of Dallas.

Safety Sheroid Evans (Sugar Land, Texas/Dulles), 6-foot, 180-pounds, could be the fastest player in the country with a season best 10.39 100-meter time and 20.76 200-meters. Evans will get looks at safety and corner. Joining Evans in the secondary is likely nickel back Leroy Scott (Houston, Texas/South Houston) and safety Mykkele Thompson (San Antonio, Texas/Stevens).

With a handful of top prospects still considering the defending Big 12 champs, expect the Longhorns to finish with another top five class.

2.LSU (11 commitments)

3.Alabama (12 commitments)

Alabama is off and running again under the direction of Nick Saban. Receiver is the strength of the class so far with commits from the electric Bradley Sylve (Port Sulphur, La./South Plaquemines), 6-foot-3 Marvin Shinn (Prichard, Ala./Vigor), Danny Woodson (Mobile, Ala./LeFlore) and Daryl Collins (Gadsden, Ala.). Sylve, Shinn and Woodson are three of the top pass catching prospects in the country, all with different styles and strengths.

Throw in the vastly underrated tight end Malcolm Faciane (Picayune, Ms.), 6-foot-6, 260-pounds, and the Crimson Tide have an abundance of weapons to incorporate in the future.

Safety Hasean Clinton-Dix (Orlando, Fla./Dr. Phillips) and outside linebacker Brent Calloway (Russelville, Ala.) are among the best at their positions in the country, while defensive tackle LaMichael Fanning (Auburn, Ala.), 6-foot-6, 275-pounds, oozes high-ceiling potential. Defensive end D.J. Pettway (Pensacola, Fla./Catholic) is one of the top defensive linemen in Florida.

Alabama has a very good chance to finish with the nations top ranked class when the ink dries in February. The Crimson Tide are in on a number of the top prospects from coast-to-coast.

4.Oklahoma (13 commitments)

The Sooners continue to put together top classes on a yearly basis and are on pace for another top 10 class in 2011. Oklahoma got their quarterback from in state in smooth lefty Kendal Thompson (Moore, Okl./Southmoore), who is the son of former Sooner signal caller Charles Thompson. The 6-foot-1, 175-pounder is joined in the class by all Texans led by defensive end Nathan Hughes, (Spring, Texas/Klein Oak) receiver Trey Metoyer (Whitehouse, Texas), bursting and darting running back Brandon Williams (Brookshire, Texas/Royal) and a host of others.

With Oklahoma in the hunt for a number of top prospects both in the Southwest Region and nationally, another top 10 class is a sound bet.

5.USC (6 commitments)

USC may only have six commitments, but they are all big time prospects. Athlete De’Anthony Thomas (LA/Crenshaw) is one of the country’s best. While he is a solid prospect as an all-purpose running back, he has the ability to be a special player on the defensive side of the ball and in the return game. Defensive tackle Antwaun Woods (Woodland Hills, Ca./Taft) will require a double team and defensive end Jalen Grimble (Las Vegas, Nevada/Bishop Gorman) is of the best on the West Coast.

QB Max Wittek (Santa Ana, Ca./Mater Dei) will continue to throw to high school teammate Victor Blackwell at the next level. Blackwell has big time ability.

A number of elite prospects still strongly considering playing for Lane Kiffin and staff make the Trojans a good bet to ink another top 10 class.

6.Ohio State (11 commitments)

If the saying is true that games are won in the trenches, then Ohio State is putting together a class that will be looked upon as one of the nations finest in five years. The Buckeyes are building a class full of big time defensive line prospects. Defensive tackle Michael Bennett (Centerville, Ohio), end Kenny Hayes (Toledo, Ohio/Whitmer), end Steve Miller (Canton, Ohio/McKinley) and end Chase Ferris (Elyria, Ohio) make up the best group of defensive line prospects in any class to this point.

Jim Tressel and staff have also dipped into the Sunshine State for a pair of prospects as they look to do yearly. Safety Jeremy Cash (Plantation, Fla.) is one of the states top defensive backs and tight end Jeff Heuerman (Naples, Fla./Barron Collier) is a blocking specialist. Cash, 6-foot, 185-pounds, is a physical, downhill safety that plays the game with the mentality the Buckeyes covet.

A number of big fish remain in state and nationally as Ohio State looks to lock down a top five class in February.

7.FSU (11 commitments)

The Seminoles are putting together a terrific class led by a stellar group of defensive backs. Safety/corner Keelin Smith (Port St. Lucie, Fla./Treasure Coast), safety Cortez Davis (Daytona Beach, Fla./Mainland), safety Lamarcus Brutus (Port St. Lucie, Fla./Treasure Coast) and Tyler Hunter (Valdosta, Ga./Lowndes) will provide Florida State a boost in the secondary.

Trey Pettis is one of the top center prospects in the country, while athlete Karlos Williams (Davenport, Fla./Ridge) brings versatility to the class.

Florida State is in position to hit a couple of home runs to regain some of the recruiting momentum lost in prior seasons.

8.Florida (4 commitments)

Never can a team can have four commitments and be considered for a top 10 class, but it’s early with many classes not having double-digit commitments and quality takes even more of a precendence. Simply put, Florida has four terrific prospects led by super quarterback prospect Jeff Driskel (Oviedo, Fla.). The 6-foot-3, 224-pound Driskel has dominated at combines and Elite 11 this spring both athletically and as a thrower of the football. The ball jumps out of his hand with effortless velocity with each impressive throw proceeded by quick, athletic drops and reactions.

Expect the Gators to continue building to another top 10 class.

9. Stanford (15 commitments)

The Cardinal has dipped into nine states to build their 2011 class thus far. Offensive guard Brendon Austin (Parker, Co./Chaparral), defensive end Charlie Hopkins (Spokane, Wa./Gonzaga Prep) and linebacker Anthony Sarao (Absecon, NJ/Holy Spirit) are all among the top prospects in their states.

A pair of running backs from Stanford’s home state are also headliners. Amir Carlisle (Sunnyvale, Ca./Kings Academy) and Kelsey Young (Norco, Ca.) will be speed to the Stanford program.

Left-hander Evan Crower (San Diego, Ca./St. Augustine) is one of the more underrated quarterback prospects in the country.

10. Nebraska (9 commitments)

Nebraska is building an impressive class coming off an impressive season. Offensive line is the strength of the class led by two of the nations best in Tyler Moore (Clearwater, Fla./Countryside) and Ryan Klachko (Springfield, Il./Sacred Heart). The jewel of the class to date, however; is athlete Jamal Tuner (Arlington, Texas/Sam Houston). The 6-foot, 175-pound Turner is a big play waiting to happen with the ball in his hands. He has quickness, straight-line speed and the ability to make defenders miss in small spaces. He could play receiver or corner on the next level along with being a factor in thr return game.

A commitment on Wednesday from rising corner Tevin Mitchel (Mansfield, Texas/Legacy) puts the Cornhuskers in the top 10. The 6-foot, 172-pound Mitchel was one of the fastest rising prospects in the Lone Star state in May.

Sanders on the rise

2010-06-01T17:22:00.000-07:00

One of the fastest rising 2011 prospects in the Lone Star state is defensive end Stephon Sanders (Mesquite, Texas/Horn). The 6-foot-3, 230-pound end with quick feet picked up offers from Iowa State and North Texas in recent days brining his offer total to 12. Arkansas, Houston, Virginia, Utah, Wake Forest, SMU, Wyoming, New Mexico, Rice and Air Force offered previously.

Sanders is one of several seniors to be at the Dallas area school to be offered by FBS programs. Receiver JaCorey Shepherd, 5-foot-11, 170-pounds, is committed to Iowa, while inside linebacker Kyle Boyd is considering offers from Iowa State and Wyoming.

McElroy up to four offers

2010-05-28T05:22:00.000-07:00

Receiver and kick return man C.J. McElroy (League City, Texas/Clear Creek) has gone from one of the more under recruited prospects in the Houston area to a quickly rising junior in the last couple of weeks. The 5-foot-9, 174-pound darting quick playmaker picked up an offer from Boise State on Thursday, which followed an offer from Arizona Wednesday.

The offers were the third and fourth for the two-sport star that also excels on the baseball field as an outfielder. The Broncos and Wildcats join Utah and Wyoming in offering the two time all-district pick that toaled 560 yards receiving and four touchdowns in just a little over seven games having missed the last two games of the 2009 season due to injury. Throw in more than 200 yards receiving and double that in kick and punt return yardage and the son of former major league baseball relief pitcher Chuck McElroy put together a second straight productive season.

Along with the four offers, McElroy is being heavily recruited by Oklahoma State, Houston, Texas A&M and others.

Another day, another offer for Ukwuachu

Defensive end Sam Ukwuachu (Pearland, Texas) picked up his ninth offer on Thursday. Boise State is the latest program to offer the 6-foot-4, 202-pound versatile prospect. The Broncos join Arizona (offered Wednesday), Baylor, Northwestern, Louisville, Illinois, Houston, Colorado and SMU in offering.

Texas A&M, Arkansas and many others are actively recruiting the high-ceiling prospect that could play defensive end, outside linebacker in a 3-4 or flex tight end at the next level. He plans to camp at Texas A&M June 6.

Sleeper nose guard picks up offers

The two 2011 names known to most at Cypress Creek in the Houston area are running back Jermichael Selders and quarterback Chuckie Keeton, both of whom have offers on the table from FBS programs. A third prospect is now emerging at the talented 5A school. Nose guard George Woods, 5-foot-11 1/2, 300-pounds, has seen his stock rise after a solid spring. Youngstown State University and Bryant University in Rhode Island have extended offers with a number of FBS programs taking a long look at the powerfully built prospect.

2010-05-27T05:57:00.000-07:00

Versatile junior Sam Ukwuachu (Pearland, Tex.) continues to see his stock rise after picking up his eighth offer on Wednesday. Boise State is the latest offer for the 6-foot-4, 202-pound defensive end. The Broncos join the likes of Northwestern, Baylor, Houston, Illinois, Louisville, Colorado and SMU in extending written offers.

“UK”, as he is known to his coaches and peers, played defensive end and some spot duty at receiver as a junior for the Oilers. He totaled 34 tackles, a pair of sacks and an interception along with 122 yards receiving and two touchdowns in 2009. He is receiving looks at defensive end, flex tight end and outside linebacker by college programs.

Texas A&M and Arkansas stand out among the many programs that are showing interest, but have yet to offer. He plans to camp at Texas A&M June 6. The Aggies are evaluating Ukwuachu as an outside linebacker in their 3-4 scheme.

He could end up on either side of the ball at the next level with defense being the most likely. His body, which features very long arms, is just beginning the process of filling out having gone from the low 190's to 202-pounds since the end of the season. His upper body development is ahead of the lower body.

Leggett, Howard top 2012 corners

2010-05-27T04:33:00.000-07:00

Miami, Fla. -- With receivers seemingly getting bigger and stronger on a yearly basis, finding big time cornerbacks with size is high on the list for every college program. In the 2012 class, college coaches need only to make a short drive in the Miami area to see two of the best.

Amos "A.J." Leggett (Miami/Booker T. Washington) and Tracy Howard (Miramar, Fla.) have quickly emerged as two of South Florida's best after terrific sophomore seasons followed up by impressive springs. At first glance, both prospects have the size college coaches covet. Leggett stands 5-foot-10 1/2 and Howard a shade under 6-feet, both with ideal arm length and wiry strong frames that will carry 185-pounds proportioned nearly perfectly down the line.

While both players have some technique work to improve on, which can be said for nearly every sophomore at any position, they possess the reactive quickness and ball skills that aren't easily found. That ability to play the ball along with the desired heighth have resulted in a number of verbal offers for the duo in May.

"Schools that have offered me (verbal offer) are Ole Miss, UM (Miami), South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida State, Bowling Green and I can't remeber any others," Said Leggett, who plans to camp at Miami and Florida State this summer. "They have told my coach they are offering me. I'm liking UM, Ole Miss and Florida State alot. I'm loving UM and Ole Miss right now. I'm hoping LSU, Ohio State, Oregon and some other big schools come after me."

Leggett won't have to go far to receive any answers to questions about the recruiting process. He is the cousin of receiver Quinton Dunbar (Miami/Booker T. Washington), who inked with Florida in February.

Like Leggett, Howard has been verbally offered by Miami along with West Virginia and others. Howard, along with many of his Miramar teammates, will attend camps and 7-on-7's at Miami, Florida State, Florida, FIU, FAU and South Florida this summer. Both fast rising corners will take part with their teams in the Heath Evans 7-on-7 June 12.

Washington's stock continues to rise

2010-05-24T20:03:00.000-07:00

Running back/athlete DeAndre Washington (Missouri City, Texas/Marshall) continues to see his stock rise as the spring evaluation period wraps up. On Monday, Boise State and Arizona extended offers bringing the 5-foot-8 1/2, 183-pounder's total 11. Texas Tech, Baylor, Colorado, Oklahoma State, Vanderbilt, Houston, Louisville, Kansas State and Memphis offered prior to Boise State and Arizona.

Washington is also receiving attention from USC, Miami and LSU among others. He plans to attend camps at USC (Rising Stars), Texas Tech, Oklahoma State and maybe Miami and LSU.

Another for Lewis

Klein Oak defensive end Jon Lewis picked up another offer on Monday. Colorado State is the latest program to offer the fast rising 6-foot-2, 264-pound lineman that is being recruited as a 3-4 end by some programs as well as projecting to defensive tackle for other programs. The Rams join Alabama, California, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech, Baylor, Houston, Arizona and Michigan in offering.

Recruiting notes from Houston Texans 7-on-7

2010-05-24T04:28:00.000-07:00

The Houston Texans 7-on-7 featured a number of future FBS players over the weekend, as it does on an annual basis. With the spring evaluation period quickly coming to an end, the majority of prospects in the Houston area have a good feel for where they stand in their recruitment headed into summer camps. Here are some notes from the weekend:

Running back Tim Gay (Houston, Texas/Chavez) is being recruited by Houston, Memphis, Miami of Ohio and Utah among others. The 6-foot, 175-pounder with 4.55-speed will camp at Houston in June and is waiting on his first offer.

Receiver Jafus Gaines (Houston, Texas/Chavez) is thought to be a heavy Stanford lean over offers from Houston, Colorado, Baylor, Arkansas and Memphis.

Sophomore receiver/running back Nathan Holmes (Port Arthur, Texas/Memorial) has caught the eye of several top programs this spring. The 6-foot, 165-pound jet with 4.45-speed and quickness will camp at Texas June 6 and possibly Texas A&M shortly after. Holmes lists Penn State, Texas and Florida as his three favorite schools. Holmes exudes explosive ability.

Receiver K'Sean Wesley (Port Arthur, Texas/Memorial) is being recruited by Houston Colorado, Oklahoma State, Nebraska, North Texas and others. The 5-foot-11, 185-pounder plans to camp at Houston and North Texas this summer. The Memorial coaching staff believes Houston is close to offering the two-year starter.

Sophomore quarterback Terrence Singleton (Port Arthur, Texas/Memorial) lists Texas, Miami and LSU as his three favorite schools growing up. The 5-foot-10 1/2, 175-pound dual-threat signal caller with 4.55-speed possesses a strong arm with a quick release and the feet and agility to make the tough throws rolling or sprinting out look easy. In the well schemed offensive attack at Memorial under the direction of head coach Kenny Harrison, look for Singleton to put up big numbers in 2010 both on the ground and through the air.

Freshman running back Jamel James (Katy, Texas/Cinco Ranch) plans to camp at Oklahoma this summer. The 5-foot-10, 215-pound sophomore to be was moved up to the varsity during his freshman season and played a key role for Cinco Ranch during their playoff run in 2009. He joined with SMU K.C. Nlemchi to form a talented duo of runners for Cinco Ranch.

Cornerback Zoey Williams (Sugar Land, Texas/Dulles) has offers from Wyoming, New Mexico and Tulsa. The 5-foot-10, 190-pounder is also being recruited by a number of programs from around the region. The former Pahokee varsity player (freshman year) made a couple of impressive high-point plays on the ball Saturday morning with one resulting in an interception. Williams is a physical corner in run support and teams with Texas commit Sheroid Evans and 2011 S/WR prospect London Muse to give Dulles three FBS level defensive backs.

Speaking of London Muse (Sugar Land, Texas/Dulles), the 5-foot-11, 175-pounder is being recruited by North Texas, SMU and Wyoming among others.

Sophomore outside linebacker Stephen Smith (Sugar Land, Texas/Dulles) plans to camp at Texas and Texas A&M in June. The 6-foot, 210-pound Smith possesses 4.6-speed and is the top 2012 prospect in the Dulles program.

Texas City 2013 running back DeShaun Rawls, 5-foot-9, 170-pounds, plans to camp at Texas and Sam Houston State this summer. He played varisty as a freshman and has caught the eye of college coaches this spring. His uncle is former University of Texas linebacker Everick Rawls.

Quarterback Chukie Keeton (Houston, Texas/CyCreek) has an offer from Memphis along with interest from TCU, Nevada, Air Force, Baylor, Houston and Rice to name a few. The 6-foot-2, 180-pound right-handed signal caller plans to camp at TCU, Nevada and Air Force this summer.

Running back Jermichael Selders (Houston, Texas/CyCreek) added offers from Mississippi State, Memphis, California and Miami of Ohio in recent days. The 5-foot-11, 175-pound darting runner with 4.45-speed was previously offered by Arkansas, West Virginia, Tulsa, Minnesota, Baylor and Iowa State. He remains open headed into the summer.

Running back Leroy Dobbins (Montgomery, Texas) is one of more than 20 talented runners in the Lone Star state in the 2011 class. The 5-foot-7, 174-pound runner with excellent vision and quickness has been offered by McNeese State and is being recruited by North Texas, Memphis, Utah and Vanderbilt among others.

Cornerback prospect Ricardo Riascos (Sugar Land, Texas/Travis) was offered by the University of Houston two weeks ago. Texas A&M, Utah, SMU, Rice and UTEP among others are also recruiting the 5-foot-11, 175-pound defensive back. He plans to camp at Houston, Texas A&M, Texas, Rice and SMU this summer.

Sophomore linebacker prospect Garrett Hope (The Woodlands, Texas) plans to camp at Texas and Houston in June. The 6-foot-3, 210-pounder is playing outside linebacker this spring.

Running back Daniel Lasco (The Woodlands, Texas) added offers from Notre Dame and California last week. Oklahoma State, Miami, Texas A&M and TCU are the four favorites for the 6-foot, 185-pound jet with 4.4-speed. Lasco had planned to commit after The Woodlands spring game on Friday, but those plans could be put on hold.

Sophomore safety Thaddeus Stewart (Pasadena, Texas/Memorial) plans to camp at Texas A&M, Texas Tech and possibly UCLA this summer. The 5-foot-10, 180-pound physical safety started in 2009 and has caught the eye of a number of FBS programs this month.

Slot receiver Greg Livingston (Spring, Texas/Spring High) is receiving recruiting attention from SMU, Houston, TCU and UTEP among others. The 5-foot-10, 185-pound physical receiver with high-point ball skills plans to camp at Houston, TCU and SMU this summer.

Three more offers for TCU commit

2010-05-21T05:52:00.000-07:00

Cameron White (DeSoto, Tex.) continues to be one of the more heavily recruited receivers in the Lone Star state despite his commitment to TCU. The 6-foot-2, 185-pound run and catch receiver received an offer from Arizona State Thursday night, one day after picking up offers from Texas Tech and Oklahoma State.

All told, the move-in from Arlington Bowie has 12 offers on the table. TCU, Missouri, Kansas, Houston, Tulsa, Virginia, Colorado, Iowa and Texas A&M have offered in addition to the most recent trio. White lists himself as a "soft commitment to TCU".

White caught 53 passes for 729 yards and 10 touchdowns as a junior.

Another offer for Cooper

The Woodlands defensive end Michael Cooper picked up his fifth offer of the spring two days ago. Miami of Ohio is the latest program to offer the 6-foot-5, 231-pound tight end turned defensive end. The RedHawks join UNVLA, Rice, Wyoming and Tulane in offering. UNLV, where brother Perry Cooper inked in February, is recruiting the quickly developing junior as a tight end.

Programs such as Northwestern, Wake Forest, Arkansas, Virginia, Arizona, Arizona State, San Diego State and others continue to show interest.

Klein Oak sophomores have offers

2010-05-21T04:38:00.000-07:00

The 2011 class at Klein Oak high features Oklahoma commitments Nathan Hughes and Max Stevenson as well as defensive end/tackle Jon Lewis . All three are among the top prospects in the Southwest region. In the 2012 class, the Panthers feature three more prospects that will be among the most heavily recruited in the region.

Quarterback Nicky Baratti, 6-foot-2, 195-pounds, began his sophomore campaign at safety before taking reps on both sides of the ball at quarterback and running back. The athletic and strong prospect with 4.55-speed showed his versatility to the tune of 754 yards rushing and eight touchdowns on 102 carries, 12 receptions for 92 yards and 21 tackles. This spring, Baratti has made great strides at quarterback catching the eye of a number of college programs. In fact, he has received verbal offers from Mississippi State, Baylor and Arizona State in May with an additional 10-12 programs beginning to show sincere interest.

"Yeah, in a way I was (surprised by the offers)," Said Baratti. "Mississippi State offered first, Baylor offered the next day and Arizona State four days after that. I found out that all the hard work had payed off. I've just got to keep it up and get more,"

The strides Baratti has made as a thrower of the football has the entire Klein Oak coaching staff excited about the 2010 season.

"My reads and being a team leader is where I've improved. I've got to keep working on my reads and timing with the receivers." Baratti said.

Another prospect that showed his versatility during his sophomore season is running back and middle linebacker Eddie "EJ" Fatu. The 5-foot-10, 240-pounder blessed with elite feet and balance for his size racked up 14 tackles, one interception and 218 yards rushing on 35 carries despite missing nearly half the season due to injury. Fatu has worked exclusively at running back this spring impressive every college coach that has been on hand for a Klein Oak workout. Like Baratti, he has received a verbal offer from Arizona State. Fatu lists USC as his childhood favorite.

A third 2012 prospect at the talented 5A program north of Houston is outside linebacker A.J. Hilliard. The younger brother of former Arlington Lamar and Notre Dame defensive tackle Corey Hilliard played part time as a sophomore recording 17 tackles, but is poised for a breakout year in 2010 after an impressive, hard-hitting spring game Thursday night. The 6-foot-2, 210-pounder with 4.65-speed lists Texas as his childhood favorite. TCU is another program he quickly mentions. He plans to camp at Texas, Baylor and possible Texas A&M and TCU this summer. His spring has been slowed by injury, but expect his name to pop up plenty after summer camps.

Lakeland Kathleen prospects have FBS offers

2010-05-20T04:32:00.000-07:00

The Lakeland are produces a number of FBS prospects on a yearly basis and the 2011 class is another in a long line of talented ones. Lakeland High receives the majority of attention in the area for good reason, but Kathleen High has their fair share of prospects in the junior class.

The headliner is inside linebacker Gionni Paul (Lakeland, Fla./Kathleen). The 6-foot, 215-pound hard-hitting and agile defender has 11 offers on the table from the likes of LSU, Florida State, Louisville, South Florida, Tennessee, Ole Miss, Memphis, Texas Tech, Iowa State, Marshall and Western Kentucky. The brother of former Missouri shooting guard Miguel Paul has LSU at the top of his list headed into the summer.

Receiver Jacques Mackeroy (Lakeland, Fla./Kathleen), 6-foot, 195-pounds, is up to five offers after recently adding Western Michigan to the mix. Boston College, Louisville, Purdue and Florida Atlantic had previously offered the physical run and catch receiver.

A pair of defenders have recently received verbal offers from Washington State. They are corner Victor Troutman, 5-foot-9, 165-pounds, and outside linebacker prospect Otis Buford, 6-foot-1, 190-pounds also has a verbal offer from Washington State. Buford plays defensive end for Kathleen High.

Wednesday quick hitters

2010-05-19T13:07:00.001-07:00

Sophomore quarterback Matt Davis (Houston, Texas/Klein Forest) has received five offers since the beginning of the spring evaluation period. TCU, Alabama, Texas A&M, Texas Tech and Iowa State have extended verbal offers to the 6-foot-1, 190-pound right-handed signal caller. Texas stopped by the school this week along with many others. He plans to camp at TCU, Texas (June 13), Alabama and others this summer. Davis was the district Newcomer of the Year in 2009.

Klein Forest junior receiver/athlete Lewis Williams has seen his stock rise in May. Rice has offered the 5-9, 165-pound darting quick pass catcher. Kansas State and Utah are two of many others beginning to show interest.

Arlington Martin quarterback Russell Bellomy is up to nine offers. Wisconsin is the latest to offer the 6-foot-3, 175-pound right-hander. The Badgers join, Michigan State, Purdue, Minnesota, USF, FIU, UTEP, Colorado State and Nevada in offering. Bellomy has a tio of Martin teammates that have already made commitments. Speedy outside linebacker Deryck Gildon was the first Martin Warrior to commit, picking neighboring TCU. Running back/safety Danzel Williams (Arlington, Texas/Martin) is headed to Oklahoma, while safety Devonta Burns (Arlington, Texas/Martin) is a Texas A&M pledge.

Defensive tackle Keithen English (Dallas/Maceo Smith) has offers from TCU, New Mexico, Houston, North Texas, New Mexico State and Western Kentucky. The 6-foot-3, 320-pounder is receiving looks at offensive guard in addition to defensive tackle. Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Purdue are recruiting the aggressive lineman on the offensive side of the ball.

Euless Trinity receiver prospect Brandon Carter (5-11, 175, 4.5) has offers from Texas Tech, Tulsa and Duke along with interest from around the region. His teammate, 6-foot-3, 290-pound defensive tackle Andre Young (Bedford, Texas/Euless Trinity) was offered by Texas Tech last week.

Euless Trinity running back Tevin Williams (5-10, 175, 4.45) has an offer from Utah.

Top program offers Charles Jackson

2010-05-18T04:38:00.000-07:00

Cornerback Charles Jackson (Houston, Texas/Klein Collins) received his top offer to date Monday night.. The Oklahoma Sooners became the latest program to offer the 5-9 1/2-inch, 173-pound corner with a 40 1/2-inch vertical last night. The Sooners join Nebraska, Houston, Arkansas, Michigan, California, Texas Tech and Baylor in offering.

Missouri, Texas, Oklahoma State, Oregon and many others are showing interest. Jackson is being recruited as a corner and return man. Simply put, Jackson is one of the top prospects in the Lone Start state in the 2011 class. He blends explosive athletic ability with soft hands and playmaking skills along with home run hitting ability in the kick-off and punt return game.

Despite the recent run of offers, Jackson said on Monday night that he will remain open. He plans to camp at Texas, Oklahoma and a couple of others this summer.

Another offer for Washington

2010-05-18T04:31:00.000-07:00

Versatile junior prospect DeAndre Washington (Missouri City, Texas/Marshall) picked up another offer on Monday. The University of Houston the latest program to offer the 5-foot-8 1/2, 183-pound versatile prospect following offers from Oklahoma State and Vanderbilt last week.. The Cougars join Oklahoma State, Colorado, Baylor, Texas Tech, Kansas State, Louisville, Memphis, Arkansas, Vanderbilt and Tulsa in offering.

Washington is one of the more under valued prospects in the junior class in Texas. He brings versatility with the ability to be a spread running back or play corner/nickel with kick and punt return ability. His body is quickly developing into that of a running back. Every step he makes is balanced with bounce and burst. He rushed for 693 yards and five touchdowns on 91 carries as a junior.

Big offer for Jon Lewis

2010-05-17T11:45:00.000-07:00

Klein Oak defensive end Jon Lewis has picked up a number of offers since the end of the 2009 season. National Champion Alabama was the first program to offer the 6-foot-2, 264-pound end that is likely to grow into a three-technique. The Crimson Tide have since been followed by the likes of Oklahoma State, Texas Tech, Arizona, Baylor, Michigan and Houston.

On Monday, the move-in from Fresno, Cal. picked up an offer he has been waiting on for a few weeks. California is the latest school to extend an offer and one that has the full attention of the rising junior.

Along with the eight programs that have offered, Lewis is hearing from Miami, Oregon, Stanford, LSU, Tennessee and TCU among others.

On the field, Lewis makes terrific use of his hands and is very difficult to knock off of his feet. He has long arms, a quick first step and the ability to chase the ball carrier in short spaces. He has quickly become one of the top prospects in the state in the 2011 class.

Texas state track meet features football stars

2010-05-15T05:09:00.001-07:00

The first day of the Texas UIL state track and field meet are in the books despite a weather delay. There were some terrific performances and some notable finishes by football prospects in the classes of 2010, 2011 and 2012.

Oklahoma State signee Justin Gilbert put together a sensational performance at 4A-III regionals advancing to state in four events. While he DQ'd in the 100-meters, which he was favored to win, he took home two medals. The 6-foot-0, 190-pounder won the 200-meters with a time of 21.59 and was the last leg of the Huntsville Hornets 3rd place 4x100-meter relay team that finished with a time of 41.55-seconds. He also finished fourth in the long jump with a leap of 21-8.25. Gilbert will play corner or receiver for the Cowboys.

Texas signee Chris Jones (6-0, 170, 4.4) won the 2A long jump with a leap of 23-0.5. Jones will play slot receiver for the Longhorns and leaves Daingerfield as a key member of back-to-back 2A state championship football teams. His teammate, junior linebacker Steve Edmond, is also a future Longhorn.

Texas receiver commitment Jaxon Shipley (Brownwood, Texas), 6-foot, 180-pounds, placed fifth in the 3A long jump at 22-07.25. He will run in the 110-hurdles today (Saturday).

Texas Tech receiver commitment Derek Edwards (6-1, 175) took third in the 4A triple jump with a leap of 45-06. He also placed fourth in the high jump at 6-02.

Oklahoma outside linebacker signee Aaron Franklin (Marshall, Texas) took home second in the 4A 200-meters with a time of 21.82. Impressive at 6-foot-1, 205-pounds. He was also the last leg of the fourth place 4x200-meter relay team that finished with a time of 1:28.81.

Baylor signee Tyler Stephenson (Lancaster, Texas) is one of the top hurdlers in the country and he won double gold last night winning the 110's with a time of 13.94-seconds and the 300-meter hurdles at 37.11-seconds. Stephenson, 5-foot-10, 165-pounds, will play corner for the Bears.

Stephenson's teammate, future Louisiana Tech safety/nickel Kendall Hayes (Lancaster, Texas) took second in the 110-meter hurdles with a time of 14.04-seconds and 5th in the 300-meter hurdles at 38.83.

Placing 8th in the 4A 110-meter hurdles with a time of 15.35-seconds was Beaumont Central outside linebacker Jacoby Hale. Hale, 6-foot-1, 195-pounds, signed with Utah in February.

The Angleton relay teams were not only fast, but featured some of the top football talent in the 2010, 2011 and 2012 classes. Senior Henry Josey (5-8, 175, 4.45) was part of the Wildcats 4A state champion 4x100-meter relay team that ran a 41.28 as well as the third place 4x200-meter relay team that finished third with a time of 1:28.18. Josey also placed third in the 100-meters with a wind blown time of 10.97. The son of former Greenville star sprinter Henry Neal signed with Missouri in February.

Joining Josey on the Angleton relay teams were Texas commit Quandre Diggs and top 2012 prospect Ryan Jackson. Diggs (5-9, 194), a 2011 Under Armour All-American, is the cousin of Jackson. Jackson, 5-foot-11, 185-pounds, plays safety and outside linebacker for Angleton, but will see extended snaps at running back as a junior.

Baylor offensive tackle commit Desmine Hilliard (Dallas/Lincoln) took home bronze in the 4A discus with a toss of 171-feet, one inch. Hilliard, 6-foot-6, 305-pounds, has one of the highest ceilings of any offensive line prospect in the Lone Star state in the 2011 class.

Louise 2011 inside linebacker Desmond Pulliam placed 6th in the 1A shot put with a throw of 48-04.75. His sister is a member of the Houston Cougars track team. He is being recruited by Houston, Utah, TCU, Kansas, UTEP and others.

Texas commit Josh Cochran (Hallsville, Texas) placed third in the 4A shot put with a throw of 55-02. Cochran, 6-foot-6, 270-pounds, will play offensive tackle for the Longhorns.

Sophomore defensive end Hayden Reed (Little-Cypress Mauriceville High) placed fourth in the 4A shot put (54-02.75) and seventh in the discus (155-11). Reed, 6-foot-4, 205-pounds, is one of the top 2012 prospects in Southeast Texas.

Sophomore receiver prospect Eric Hawkins (Longview, Texas) took home third in the 4A 200-meters with a time of 21.96-seconds. The 5-foot-10, 165-pounder also placed fourth in the 100-meters with a time of 11.04-seconds.

Nebraska offers Texas 2011 corner

2010-05-14T15:49:00.000-07:00

Cornerback Charles Jackson (Houston, Texas/Klein Collins) continues to see his offers increase. The 5-9 1/2-inch, 173-pound corner with a 40 1/2-inch vertical picked up an offer from Nebraska on Friday. The Cornhuskers join Houston, Arkansas, Michigan, California, Texas Tech and Baylor in offering. Nebraska is Jackson's second Big 12 offer of the week following Texas Tech.

Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, Oklahoma State and many others are showing interest. Jackson is being recruited as a corner and return man. Simply put, Jackson is one of the top prospects in the Lone Start state in the 2011 class. He blends explosive athletic ability with soft hands and playmaking skills along with home run hitting ability on the kick-off and punt return game.

Washington picks up Big 12 offer

Darting junior running back/athlete DeAndre Washington (Missouri City, Texas/Marshall) continues to pick up offers weekly. Oklahoma State became the latest program to offer the 5-foot-8 1/2, 183-pound versatile prospect on Thursday. The Cowboys join Colorado, Baylor, Texas Tech, Kansas State, Louisville, Memphis, Arkansas, Vanderbilt and Tulsa in offering.

LSU picks up offensive lineman

2010-05-14T11:32:00.000-07:00

LSU received commitment this morning from New Orleans San Augustine offensive tackle Trai Turner. The 6-foot-4, 340-pound guard prospect committed to LSU assistant coach Frank Wilson becoming the 11th pledge for the Tigers. Turner picked LSU over offers from Mississippi State, Florida State, Arkansas, Tennessee, Michigan, Nebraska and others.

Turner was one of the more impressive offensive line prospects in my trip through the New Orleans area in October. He moves very well for his size with a combination of quickness off the ball and laterally with a powerful punch and the ability to finish blocks. He doubles as a defensive tackle and plays with impressive leverage.

LSU, along with Texas and Alabama, is putting together one of the nations best classes in 2011 featuring 10 prospects from a special junior class in Louisiana. The lone prospect from out of state at this point is the hard-hitting and fast linebacker from the Houston area, Trevon Randle (League City, Texas/Clear Springs).

Thursday Quick Hitters (offers go out)

2010-05-13T04:47:00.001-07:00

Speedy junior running back/athlete DeAndre Washington (Missouri City, Texas/Marshall) continues to pick up offers. Vanderbilt is the latest program to offer the 5-foot-8 1/2, 183-pound darting quick back. The Commodores join Colorado, Baylor, Texas Tech, Kansas State, Louisville, Memphis, Arkansas and Tulsa in offering.

Junior athlete P.J. Dawson (Dallas/Skyline) picked up an offer from Colorado State on Wednesday, his first official offer. Texas Tech and others are taking a long look at the 6-foot-1, 195-pound receiver and outside linebacker prospect.

Freshman cornerback Will Barrow is turning heads this spring at Dallas Skyline. Nearly 50 college have already stopped by the uber talented 5A program and more than a handful have mentioned the 5-foot-10, 160-pound corner as one of the most talented prospects.

Sophomore receiver Thomas Johnson (Dallas/Skyline) is tearing it up this spring as expected. The Skyline coaching staff expects the 6-foot, 175-pound jet with 4.45 speed and quickness in spades to have double digit offers by the end of September. Johnson is one of the top prospects in the 2012 class both in Texas and nationally.

Junior defensive end Marquel Bryant (Dallas/Skyline) is gaining interest despite a nagging shoulder injury. SMU has offered and Texas Tech could be the second in the coming weeks for the 6-foot-3, 219-pound long armed end.

Junior receiver and return man C.J. McElroy (League City, Texas/Clear Creek) picked up his first offer. Utah is the first program to offer the 5-foot-9, 175-pound speedy playmaker. Oklahoma State, Houston, Texas A&M, UNLV and many others are recruiting the son of former MLB relief pitcher Chuck McElroy.

Junior receiver Tevin Jones (League City, Texas/Clear Creek) has an offer from Memphis with Houston possible in the near future. Programs from the Big 12, Mountain West and C-USA are also showing interest in the 6-foot-2, 193-pound run and catch receiver.

Texas Tech offers Jackson

2010-05-12T17:24:00.001-07:00

Rising junior corner Charles Jackson (Houston, Texas/Klein Collins) picked up offer number six on Wednesday. Texas Tech is the latest program to offer the 5-foot-9 1/2, 173-pound playmaking corner with 4.45 speed and a 40 1/2-inch vertical. The Red Raiders join Houston, Arkansas, Michigan, California and Baylor in offering.

Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, Oklahoma State and many others are showing interest. Texas (Will Muschamp) and Oklahoma (WIllie Martinez) coaches were in attendance at Klein Collins practice last Wednesday.

Jackson is being recruited as a corner and return man.

Donnie Baggs commits to Texas A&M

2010-05-12T09:39:00.000-07:00

Clear Springs outside linebacker Donnie Baggs committed to Texas A&M just minutes ago. The 6-foot-2, 210-pounder was on campus at Texas A&M with his mother this morning to make his commitment to the Aggies official. The unofficial visit was his second in recent weeks. He picked the Aggies over offers from Missouri, Arizona, Baylor, Rice, Houston, Kansas State and Kansas along with interest from around the country including UCLA and Tennessee.

Baggs played safety as a sophomore for the then newly opened 5A school before moving to outside linebacker as a junior, where he continues to play this spring. Baggs excels as an edge rusher with the speed and agility to chase the ball from sideline to sideline with a body that will continues to develop. He is likely to be 6-foot-2, 225-230-pounds in a couple of years.

Baggs is the second linebacker prospect from the talent rich Clear Springs program to commit to an FBS program. Inside linebacker Trevon Randle committed to LSU February 20.

A third linebacker prospect for Clear Springs is Seguin transfer Howard Matthews. The 6-foot-0, 200-pound ball hawking safety and running back has offers from Texas A&M and Baylor with the Aggies holding a large lead. He was also on campus in College Station this morning.

Oklahoma offers DeSoto sophomore, new offers for Cedar Hill WR

2010-05-12T03:40:00.000-07:00

Oklahoma (defensive coordinator Brent Venables) verbally offered DeSoto 2012 DE Michael Richardson on Tuesday. Richardson, 6-foot-2, 215-pounds, is one of the top sophomore defensive ends in the Lone Star state. Texas assistant coaches Will Muschamp and Bruce Chambers were also on hand Tuesday for afternoon practice.

Cedar Hill 2011 receiver Lovett Gibson, 6-foot-1, 175, 4.55, picked offers from Colorado and Western Kentucky this week. The latest Cedar Hill receiver prospect is also receiving interest from a number of programs in the Big 12, Mountain West and C-USA.

Klein Oak 2012 QB/athlete Nicky Baratti picked a verbal offer from Mississippi State on Monday. The 6-foot-2, 195-pounder with 4.55 speed practiced on Tuesday in front of coaches from Oklahoma State, Baylor and Navy. The talented sophomore is one of a dozen of FBS prospects in the 2011 and 2012 classes at Klein Oak. Baratti's father played at Southern Miss.

Texas coaches check out Plano West sophomore

2010-05-10T16:14:00.000-07:00

Texas assistants Will Muschamp and Bobby Kennedy made a stop at Plano West today to check out up and coming sophomore safety/linebacker prospect Bryce Cottrell. The 6-foot-3, 205-pounder totaled 35 tackles and a fumble recovery in 2009.

Junior defensive end/outside linebacker Nathan Broussard (6-foot-4, 245, 4.8) is also drawing the watchful eye of many college coaches during the spring evaluation period. The two-year starter has offers from Stanford, California and Tulsa along with serious interest from Texas A&M, who stopped by in recent days.

Klein Collins juniors pick up offers, another Goodson at RB

2010-05-10T14:56:00.000-07:00

Klein Collins spring practice has been one of the more popular stops for college coaches evaluating in the Houston area. Coming off of a 12-win season with as many as 10 future FBS players returning, it comes without surprise.

Two names are on the tip of the tongue in nationally recruited cornerback Charles Jackson and offensive tackle and Texas commit Garrett Greenlea, but the talent runs deep in the 2011 class.

Linebacker David Santos, 6-foot, 195-pounds with 4.6-speed, has written offers from Utah and Kansas along with recent verbal offers from Wyoming and Missouri. The Cowboys extended the verbal offer following a visit to the school Wednesday.

Santos wasn't the only player to receive a verbal offer from Wyoming. Defensive end Jarrett Johnson (6-foot-3, 220, 4.7) was also verbally offered by the Cowboys last week and is one of the true sleeper prospects in the 2011 class after playing on the junior varsity as a junior and playing basketball only in the years prior. The long armed, raw, but athletic prospect has caught the eye of several programs from the Mountain West and C-USA this month.

Two offensive linemen in the junior class are also receiving interest. Tackle Scotty Whitmore (6-foot-5, 300) and guard Jacob Eaves (6-foot-2, 270) have caught the eye of several programs with Whitmore the most likely to receive an offer from FBS programs.

Three prospects in the 2012 class are also on the radar of college programs. Safety Ryan Santos, the younger brother of David Santos, will be one of the top safety prospects in the Lone Star state a year from now. The 5-foot-10, 175-pounder is a hard-hitting, fast closing defensive back. He plans to attend a number of camps this summer with his brother.

Santos is joined in the sophomore class by athlete Tyler Stehling (6-foot-5, 195), center/guard Billy Aubertin (6-foot-3, 250) and athlete Corey Geisler (6-foot, 180). Stehling is one of the top athletes in the school having played varsity football, basketball and baseball this year. Geisler is a talented football player, but was a varsity starter on the diamond as a freshman and is considered one of the top 2012 baseball prospects in Texas, if not the country. Both Stehling and Geisler are competing at quarterback as well as receiver, but are limited due to the baseball playoffs.

Klein Collins defeated state tournament qualifier Lufkin in the first round last week and will take on Georgetown in a three game series beginning Thursday night at Klein Collins.

As talented as the 2011 and 2012 classes are, the top prospect may actually be in the 2013 class. Running back Marcus Goodson (5-foot-10, 170, 4.5) is a likely sophomore starter. The younger brother of former Texas A&M and current NFL running back Michael Goodson has been a daily playmaker breaking off electrifying runs.

Texas, Oklahoma coaches check in on Charles Jackson

2010-05-10T14:37:00.000-07:00

Klein Collins cornerback Charles Jackson continues to see his stock rise in the spring evaluation period. The 5-foot-9.5, 173-pound uber athletic defensive back prospect entered the evaluation period with offers from Arkansas and Houston (his first offer), but has since added written offers from California, Michigan and Baylor along with a verbal offer from Missouri.

Last week, May 5, coaches from Texas (Will Muschamp) and Oklahoma (Willie Martinez) stopped by the 5A school to watch the corner with a 40 1/2-inch vertical leap. It was the first of what will be two visits to Klein Collins for each school this month. Jackson, who is a member of the 4x200 state qualifier relay team, will camp at both schools this summer along with two or three others that are yet to be determined.

The Klein Collins relay team is made up of two juniors (Jackson and Marquis Cardinal) and two sophomores (Shane Rhodes and Alex Reece). Reece, 6-foot-2, 190-pounds, will be playing football for the first time in 2010 (working out at safety). He is the top sprinter in the school with a season best time of 21.5 (FAT) in the 200-meters. On the hoof, he is the best looking prospect on the hoof.

Sleeper defensive tackle picks up two offers

2010-05-07T11:22:00.000-07:00

Darrian Wright (Dayton, Texas) is one of the sleeper defensive linemen in the state of Texas in the 2011 class. The 6-foot, 280-pound quick and powerful three technique is coming off of a junior season in which he was named the Defensive Player of the Year recording 73 tackles and seven sacks.

In recent days, Wright has picked up his first two offers. SMU was the first to offer followed by UNLV. Wright is also hearing from a number of programs in C-USA and the Mountain West.

Another up and coming junior in the Houston area is receiver Devante Davis (Houston, TX./North Shore). The 6-foot-3, 195-pound Davis picked up his first offer, Memphis, this week. Oklahoma, TCU and many others are showing serious interest with the Sooners expected to make a second visit to North Shore in late May. Davis, who sports 4.6 speed, has played flex tight end as well as receiver. He will likely take home the 5A triple jump title in the coming days after leaping over 50-feet at regionals, which is one of the top five jumps in the country this spring.

Sedrick Flowers at right guard for North Shore today

2010-05-06T17:06:00.001-07:00

Attended spring practice at North Shore today and thought Texas commit Sedrick Flowers moving to right guard was of interest. He has played right tackle the last two seasons, but has moved to guard and looked terrific pulling, moving laterally as normal, finishing with power and showing second level ability. Guard will be his destination at the next more than likely.

He is a legit 6-foot-3, 285-pounds. He has toned up a little more in the lower body and core areas.

The North Shore coaches again talked about his ability to be a very good defensive tackle with one coach commenting that his instincts as a player are more along the defensive line at tackle, but he is a "freak" of sorts that can play anywhere on the OL. He has played some limited snaps at defensive tackle in the past including in last season's playoff loss to Brazoswood.

Arizona State to offer Vaughn

2010-05-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

Pearland Dawson junior receiver Marcus Vaughn (6-foot, 200, 4.55) is set to pick up his second offer on Friday. Arizona State has indicated they are going to offer joining the University of Houston. Vaughn, a run and catch and catch and run receiver, is one of the top pass catchers in the 2011 class in the Southwest Region.

TCU, Oklahoma State, Baylor, Missouri, Kansa, Kansas State and others are showing interest.

Vaughn's teammate, 2011 DE Robert Seals, committed to SMU over the weekend.

Dawsons's top 2012 prospect is safety Jarrel Crenshaw (5-10, 171, 4.6). Crenshaw is a two-year starter at the 4A program headed into his junior season.

Texas, Missouri coaches attend Clear Springs practice

2010-05-06T06:06:00.001-07:00

Clear Springs high will be one of the more talented teams in the state next season. With as many seven FBS level prospects in the 2011 class and three more in the 2012 class, the Chargers are drawing daily crowds for afternoon spring practice. On Wednesday, coaches from Texas (Major Applewhite) and Missouri (Craig Kuligowski) were on hand to take a look at the uber talented program.

Clear Springs features a trio of junior linebacker prospects in Trevon Randle (committed to LSU), Donnie Baggs and Howard Matthews, who transferred from Seguin after the 2009 season. Baggs is a heavy Texas A&M lean over Oklahoma State, Arizona and others. He will visit Texas A&M May 12, which could end the process for the athletic 6-foot-2, 210-pounder.

Matthews, 6-foot, 205-pounds, has offers from Texas A&M and Baylor with Oklahoma State likely in the next week or two. Like Baggs, Matthews is leaning to the Aggies after a recent unofficial visit. Matthews plays running back primarily for Clear Springs, but will see some time at safety as well. His instincts are on the defensive side of the ball. He is one of the more underrated prospects in the region.

Fellow 2011 prospect, defensive end Brandon Mickens (6-5, 200, 4.8), has an offer from Kansas State. Mickens father played at Kansas State in the late 1980's and is a Kansas State lean. Mickens clocked an impressive 4.47 pro-agility shuttle in spring testing to go along with a 28-inch vertical.

The defensive end opposite Mickens, junior Keishe Wilcox (6-1, 220, 4.8) is closing in on his first offer. Tulsa is close to offering along with interest from Louisiana-Lafayette and Iowa State among others.

Cornerback Sam Richardson (5-7, 170, 4.55) is the best football player on the Chargers team. He is Friday night game changer at corner, slot receiver and in the kick return game. He received an offer from I-AA Bryant yesterday and is closing in on offers from Colorado State, Iowa State and Utah. He sports a very quick 4.22 pro-agility shuttle and 30-inch vertical.

Although the 2011 class is stacked, the top prospect in the program may well be 2012 safety Damani Alexcee. The younger brother of 2010 North Texas signee Khari Alexcee, Damani jumps out play after play with his fierce hitting style of play, ball skills, range and speed. The 6-foot-1, 170-pounder sports a 4.34 pro-agility shuttle and had the full attention of Coach Applewhite and Coach Kuligowski throughout the practice.

Joining Alexcee as a standout in the 2012 class is receiver Marcus Johnson. Johnson, 5-foot-11, 170-pounds, recorded a 4.57 forty yard dash in spring testing.

Houston, TCU check in on Pulliam

2010-05-06T04:48:00.000-07:00

Desmond Pulliam of Louise High in the El Campo area Southwest of Houston (on 59) continues to be one of the few prospects from 1A schools to receive serious FBS interest. Houston and TCU have been by the school since the start of the Spring evaluation period, which began April 15 and runs through May.

Pulliam, 6-foot, 220-pounds, is receiving interest from UNLV and Kansas in addition to Houston and TCU. He recently showed well at the Nike NFTC on the campus of TCU.

Pulliam is a two time first team all-district pick as well as a starter on the basketball team and a regional qualifier in track. His sister is a member of the Houston track team.

Fast rising Howard Matthews picks up Baylor offer

2010-05-05T10:36:00.000-07:00

Fast rising junior OLB prospect Howard Matthews (League City, Tx./Clear Springs) picked up an offer this week from Baylor to go with last week's offer from Texas A&M.

Matthews 6-foot-2, 205-pounds will play running back, safety and/or outside linebacker for Clear Springs as a senior after transferring from Seguin, where he intercepted five passes last season.

Matthews is one of three top linebacker prospects at Clear Springs in the 2011 class. Trevon Randle, 6-foot-1, 205-pounds, is committed to LSU and Donnie Baggs, 6-foot-2, 210-pounds, is a heavy lean to Texas A&M over Missouri, Arizona and others.