4-Star Dual-Threat QB Deondre Francois Names Top 6

Florida standout Deondre Francois is less than two months away from announcing a college commitment. According to a recent conversation with 247Sports reporter Josh Newberg (subscription required), the quarterback has begun to focus on a cluster of favorites. 

“My top schools are Oregon, Florida State, Florida, Ohio State, Auburn and Tennessee," Francois told Newberg.

The 4-star prospect holds nearly two dozen offers, including other in-state options at UCF, USF and Miami. His list of opportunities also includes Clemson, Michigan State, Louisville and North Carolina.

Francois told 247Sports that he plans to commit while attending "The Opening", an elite Nike camp that occurs July 7-10 in Beaverton, Oregon. The playmaker's goal is to spend time with each top university before concluding his recruitment process.

"I just want to get out and see the atmosphere at those places, see what the campuses are like and meet the players and coaches to see how I feel," he said.

Francois announced his transfer from Olympia High School (Orlando, Florida) to IMG Academy (Bradenton, Florida) in March. He totaled nearly 3,200 yards and 28 touchdowns through the air in two seasons as a starter at Olympia, per the Orlando Sentinel.

IMG is led by head coach Chris Weinke, who won the Heisman Trophy in 2000 as Florida State's quarterback. That shouldn't hurt the Seminoles' outlook in this recruiting race.

Francois identified Florida State and Florida as his favorites during a February discussion with 247Sports reporter Chris Nee.

“I would say it is pretty even race right now between FSU and Florida,” Francois said at the time.

While the list of potential landing spots has expanded, analysts still project the Sunshine State powers as programs to beat. The Seminoles and Gators each hold 50 percent of expert signing day predictions in 247Sports' Crystal Ball.

Ohio State and Tennessee remain in search of 2015 quarterback recruits. Auburn picked up a pledge from Georgia passer Tyler Queen last summer, but seems intent on acquiring another prospect at the position.

Tennessee and Auburn are listed at No. 1 and No. 2 respectively in the recently revealed top 15 list of 5-star quarterback Torrance Gibson. Ohio State (No. 4), Florida (No. 8) and Oregon (No. 10) also made the cut for the coveted Fort Lauderdale recruit.

Francois, rated No. 9 nationally among dual-threat quarterbacks in 247Sports' composite rankings, clearly presents an alternative option for each team. Florida State could view him as the eventual heir apparent for 2013 Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston.

Francois told 247Sports in February that he plans to enroll early at the school of his choice.

Recruit information courtesy of 247Sports unless otherwise noted.

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