Edward Paris to LSU: Tigers Land 5-Star DB Prospect

A playmaking defensive back prospect, Edward Paris spent his high school career making opposing quarterbacks look silly. According to Paris' Twitter page and confirmed by James Smith of the Times-Picayune, the Mansfield Timberview High School product will now look to do the same to signal-callers in the SEC, as he will be attending LSU next fall:

"

LSU fans turn up!!

— Edward Paris Jr (@323Eddie_P) February 26, 2013"

Like all verbal commitments, Paris' recruitment is not totally complete as of yet. NCAA bylaws allow Paris to keep his options open until national signing day, which happens on Feb. 5 for the Class of 2014.

Nevertheless, LSU has to be nothing short of thrilled to land Paris. The Texas product, who is ranked third in the state by 247Sports' composite rankings, attracted suitors from top programs all over the country.

Paris is an all-around playmaker at defensive back, and is athletic enough to play some cornerback at the next level. He's a brilliant playmaker on the ball, gifted with top-shelf closing speed and more than enough awareness to stay step-for-step in man-to-man coverage.

That being said, most project Paris to be a safety at the next level. He's considered the nation's third-best player at the position (as per 247Sports' composite rankings) and could instantly be a contributor against the pass.

Where Paris will have to work is in his run defense awareness. His aggressiveness is oftentimes an asset in the passing game, but can get him to oversell his commitment against the run. Tackling can also be a problem when he fails to wrap up.

But we're being nitpicky here. A little bit of coaching and he should be able to iron out his deficiencies and could even contribute as a freshman.

LSU still has to play the waiting game, but for now, it has landed a real gem in Paris.

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