Justin Hollins Commits to Oregon: What 6'5" Defensive End Brings to Ducks
Versatile 2014 defender Justin Hollins has made his collegiate decision. The 6'5", 210-pound prospect from Arlington, Texas, announced on Monday he has committed to play for the Oregon Ducks, according to The Oregonian.
Hollins, who spent an official visit at Oregon in September, picked the Ducks from a plethora of programs. His offer list includes Baylor, Missouri, Illinois and Oklahoma State.
The choice ultimately come down to Oregon and Oklahoma, according to 247Sports writer Justin Hopkins.
Hollins used an official visit to spend time with the Sooners in Norman. He was on campus during the first weekend of October.
The commitment could become a defining moment for both Oregon and Oklahoma on the recruiting trail. The late-rising Martin High School star quickly emerged as a coveted recruit this summer.
Hollins explained what drew him to the Ducks during a discussion with ESPN.com writer William Wilkerson, saying:
"They have a great coaching staff, great environment. I love the players and the way they interact with the staff. It was just everything when I went up there. I was overwhelmed.
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The Ducks land a supremely athletic prospect capable of providing a pass rush from multiple positions. While most schools view Hollins as an ideal weak-side defensive end, Oregon may have other plans.
247Sports reports Ducks recruiting coordinator and linebackers coach Don Pellum primarily views Hollins as a player best suited to attack from a stand-up position. He makes an extremely intriguing linebacker prospect, possessing enough size to match up with the PAC-12's top tight end targets.
Hollins is a rangy defender who shows burst off the edge and can track down ball-carriers near the line of scrimmage. His transition to the second level likely requires refinement, particularly in lateral mobility.
Oklahoma misses out on a key target. The Sooners are still in search of defensive ends in the 2014 recruiting cycle.
Hollins is ranked the nation's No. 43 weak-side defensive end prospect by 247Sports. His addition gives Oregon 11 commits in its 2014 class, which 247Sports currently ranks 36th nationally.
