Bleacher Report's Top 25 2015 Recruiting Classes After The Opening
The 2015 recruiting cycle reaches a pivotal stretch this time of the year, as just a few weeks of summer separate us from the senior seasons of top college prospects. Many of these premier recruits attended The Opening in Beaverton, Oregon, last week.
Bleacher Report was on hand for all the action at Nike's world headquarters, where several players announced commitments and shook up the recruiting spectrum moving forward. In the wake of a star-studded event, we rank the country's top 25 recruiting classes at this point, placing more value on quality than quantity.
While some teams have acquired headliners, top-to-bottom depth isĀ ultimately the most important componentĀ for a class when developing aĀ foundation for success. The emphasis is to hit on every commitment based on film evaluation and personal contact, rather than focusing on a variety ofĀ star ratings handed out by media outlets.
Here's a look at teams taking care of business on the path to national signing day.
25. Duke
1 of 25
Total Commitments: 17 (one 4-star)
Best of the Bunch
Duke turned heads in early July when it swiped 4-star tight end Tyler PetiteĀ (California) away from the West Coast with USC and Stanford in pursuit. The Blue Devils also landed offensive tackle Reno RoseneĀ and receiver Aaron YoungĀ from California.
Connecticut quarterback Quentin HarrisĀ made quality strides as a junior. He'll work with aĀ solid class of receivers that also includes Keyston FullerĀ (Georgia) and Flynn NagelĀ (Illinois).
Georgia defensive ends Trevon McSwainĀ and Zach MorrisĀ complement each other well.
Top Targets
Duke can continue to pile on offensive talent with North CarolinaĀ running backs Johnny Frasier, Nyheim HinesĀ or Reggie Gallaspy. Offensive linemen Andrew WoodĀ (Tennessee) and Trey DerouenĀ (Georgia) are also on the radar.
The Blue Devils will attempt to bolster the defense with safety Rashad RoundtreeĀ (Georgia), defensive end Marques FordĀ (Florida) and cornerback T.J. Griffin (Virginia).
24. Missouri
2 of 25
Total Commitments: 9 (three 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Quarterback Drew LockĀ confirmed he belongs among the nation's elite passers with his performance at Elite 11 finals and The Opening. The Missouri legacy will be joined in an impressive backfield by 4-star running backs Natereace StrongĀ (Illinois) and Chase AbbingtonĀ (junior college).
Offensive guard A.J. HarrisĀ (Kansas) plays with a chip on his shoulder and could crack the starting lineup as an underclassman. St. Louis standout Cameron HiltonĀ is one of the most underrated safety prospects in this recruiting cycle.
Top Targets
Defensive end Terry BecknerĀ (Illinois) dominated at The Opening and is a strong candidate to land in Columbia next year. Pass-rusher Anree Saint-ArmourĀ (Georgia)Ā is also a valued commodity at the position.
Missouri must address its depth at receiver, with Darrell ClarkĀ and Kalif JacksonĀ (Florida) offering options.
23. West Virginia
3 of 25
Total Commitments: 13 (two 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
The Mountaineers continue to recruit well in the Sunshine State. Florida products Jovon DuranteĀ (receiver), Kendrell McFaddenĀ (safety) and Alex AndersonĀ (running back) headline the latest haul.
Defensive end Stone Wolfley, the team's top in-state recruit, is staying home. Offensive tackle Matt Jones (Ohio) has the makings of a multi-year anchor on the line.
Top Targets
Expect West Virginia to continue to pluck players from Florida, with an emphasis on quarterback Lamar Jackson, receiver Tavares MartinĀ and defensive end Reuben Jones. Cornerback Jordan Whitehead (Pennsylvania) is arguably the team's top priority as it attempts to improve in the pass-happy Big 12.
.jpg?w=2560 "AP Poll Top 5 Week 10")
22. Arkansas
4 of 25
Total Commitments: 10 (four 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
The Razorbacks have done a solid job keeping top players in their home state. This year's class includes Arkansas standouts Ty StoreyĀ (quarterback), Jamario BellĀ (tight end) and Colton JacksonĀ (offensive tackle).
The team reached up to Ohio for disruptive defensive tackle Hjalte Froholdt, a powerful 6'4", 282-pound European product. Texas prospects Zach RogersĀ (offensive guard) and Rawleigh WilliamsĀ (running back) should help rev up the Razorbacks rushing attack.
Top Targets
There's still work to be done within state borders, starting with receiver K.J. HillĀ and tight end Will Gragg, who both impressed at The Opening. Linebacker Quarte SappĀ (Georgia) and safety Marcus WalkerĀ (Florida) are viable defensive targets.
21. Northwestern
5 of 25
Total Commitments: 16 (two 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Ohio brothers DavidĀ (receiver) and Andrew DowellĀ (running back)Ā provided the Wildcats withĀ an early boost by committing inĀ April. Cincinnati defensive tackle Jordan ThompsonĀ gives the team another Ohio standout.
Thompson will beĀ joined on the line by talented defensive ends Joe GazianoĀ (Massachusetts) and Trent GoensĀ (California). Missouri running back John MotenĀ can be a difference-maker during his freshman campaign at Northwestern.
Top Targets
The team is still attempting to find its quarterback for this class, and Southern California dual-threat Sam DarnoldĀ has reciprocated interest. Indiana athlete Isaac JamesĀ could be a factor at a variety of positions for the Wildcats.
20. Florida
6 of 25
Total Commitments: 10 (four 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Ohio linebacker Jerome BakerĀ surprised many when he committed to the Gators over the Buckeyes in July. He's the latest addition to a 2015 defensive haul that already included 4-star cornerback Marcus Lewis (Washington, D.C.) and thumping Jacksonville safety Deontai Williams.
California quarterback Sheriron JonesĀ is a multifaceted playmaker. The same can be said for receivers Derrick DillonĀ (Louisiana) and Tristan PaytonĀ (Florida).
Top Targets
The Gators hope to grab dominant in-state defensive ends CeCe JeffersonĀ and Byron Cowart. Florida can also address the trenches on its home turf with a commitment from top-ranked offensive tackle Martez Ivey, who told Bleacher Report at The Opening that the Gators and Auburn are recruiting him harder than anyone.
Former Michigan pledge George CampbellĀ (Florida) could spend his collegiate career making splash plays in The Swamp.
19. North Carolina
7 of 25
Total Commitments: 16 (three 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Dual-threat quarterback Anthony RatliffĀ is an intriguing developmental prospect who joins fellow in-state talent Juval MolletteĀ (receiver) in the Tar Heels offensive attack. North Carolina landed a trio of starting-caliber offensive tackles in Mason VealĀ (North Carolina), William SweetĀ (Florida) and Emanuel McGirtĀ (North Carolina), while Tommy HattonĀ may be the best center in America.
Florida defenders Ronnie HarrisonĀ (safety) and Andre SmithĀ (linebacker) add some bite to the back seven.
Top Targets
Top in-state prospects Shy TuttleĀ (defensive tackle) and Jalen DaltonĀ (defensive end) would provide an explosive element up front. Wake Forest running back Bryce LoveĀ is an absolute burner out of the backfield who can also contribute as a receiver.
18. Oregon
8 of 25
Total Commitments: 11 (four 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Oregon claimed a commitment from across the country this spring when supremely speedy running back Taj GriffinĀ (Georgia) joined the class. He adds aĀ big-play abilityĀ to the Ducks attack, along withĀ productive 6'3" receiver Alex OfodileĀ (Missouri).
Oregon found its quarterback of the future in Travis WallerĀ (California), who chose the Ducks over Notre Dame and Northwestern. The team also holds pledges from a collection of impressive offensive linemen, led by Zach OkunĀ (California) and Calvin ThrockmortonĀ (Washington).
Top Targets
The Ducks are always looking to stockpile weapons on offense, so it's no surpriseĀ Texas starsĀ Soso Jamabo (running back) and Ryan NewsomeĀ (receiver) are on the radar. Fast-rising quarterback Sam DarnoldĀ could become the team's second passer from Southern California in this class.
Defensively, linemen Rasheem GreenĀ (California) and Byron CowartĀ (Florida) are prized prospects.
17. Mississippi State
9 of 25
Total Commitments: 18 (three 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
The Bulldogs bolster aerial efforts by adding speedy in-state playmaker Malik DearĀ and JUCO standout Donald GrayĀ at receiver. Dontea JonesĀ (Mississippi),Ā brings height to the attack with his 6'4" frame, andĀ quarterback Chason VirgilĀ (Texas) will look to capitalize onĀ this impressive group of incoming pass-catchers.
Defensive ends Timothy WashingtonĀ (Mississippi) and Kendell JonesĀ (Alabama) are physically prepared for SEC action. Maurice SmithermanĀ (Alabama) flashes elite athleticism at cornerback.
Top Targets
Mississippi State aims to build on its strong start with additions on both sides of the ball. In-state defenders Jamal PetersĀ (safety) and Fletcher AdamsĀ (tackle) are priorities for the coaching staff.
Offensive guard Javon PattersonĀ (Mississippi) is among the nation's best and would immediately add clout to the Bulldogs rushing attack, where running back Nick GibsonĀ (Alabama) could make some noise.
16. Texas
10 of 25
Total Commitments: 11 (five 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Charlie Strong landed his quarterback of the future in May when 4-star prospect Zach GentryĀ committed to Texas over Tennessee, Oklahoma State and Alabama. In-state running backs Jordan Stevenson and Tristian HoustonĀ give the offensive backfield another boost.
The Longhorns addressed the offensive line early, as 4-star blockers Toby WeathersbyĀ and Patrick VaheĀ opted to stay in their home state. Texan safeties Deshon ElliottĀ and Keivon RamseyĀ each have potential to crack the two-deep early as Strong recreates the Longhorns defense with his recruits.
Top Targets
Texas has its sights set on several stellar in-state defenders, most notably linebacker Malik JeffersonĀ and cornerback Kendall Sheffield.Ā That 5-star duo tops the list, but 4-star linebackers Anthony WheelerĀ and Cameron TownsendĀ are also key possibilities.
The Longhorns must get deeper and moreĀ explosiveĀ along the offensive perimeter. In-state receiver Ryan Newsome, whoĀ would fill an immediate need at slot and provide exceptional special teams skills as a feared kick returner, expressed plenty of interest in Texas at The Opening.
15. Ohio State
11 of 25
Total Commitments: 12 (one 5-star, four 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
After enduring an early recruiting lull, Urban Meyer has quickly gained momentum in this class. Linebacker Justin HilliardĀ (Ohio) and defensive end Jashon CornellĀ (Minnesota)āthe team's most highly rated pledgesācommitted on the same day in early July.
Longtime commits Eric Glover-WilliamsĀ (Ohio) and Jamel DeanĀ (Florida) give the Buckeyes a pair of 4-star cornerbacks. In-state prospect Nick ConnerĀ is one of the country's top middle linebackers, while fellow Ohio standout Joe BurrowĀ is an underrated dual-threat quarterback.
Top Targets
Ohio State can enhance its offensiveĀ class by landing receivers Christian KirkĀ (Arizona) or Van Jefferson (Tennessee). Top-ranked running back Damien HarrisĀ could soon pull the trigger on a pledge after he decommitted from Michigan last winter.
No. 1 defensive end recruit Josh SweatĀ tops the wish list on that side of the ball and spent time in Columbus earlier this summer. He would instantly change the complexion of Ohio State's pass rush.
14. UCLA
12 of 25
Total Commitments: 10 (one 5-star, five 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Southern California quarterback Josh RosenĀ headlines this class and is the top-ranked 2015 prospect at the position. He'll have plenty of protection in Los Angeles, with recent 4-star offensive line commits Fred Ulu-PerryĀ (Hawaii) and Andre JamesĀ (Utah) dominating up front.
Top-ranked tight end Aliz'e JonesĀ (Nevada) and receiver L.J. ReedĀ (California) provide Rosen with downfield weapons, while running back T.J. SimmonsĀ (Florida) can also contribute in the passing attack.
Top Targets
The Bruins will look to build up the receiving corps, with Christian KirkĀ (Arizona) and Cordell Broadus (Nevada) among options. UCLA needs to find defensive help and could look to nearby Junipero Serra High School, where 5-star recruits Rasheem GreenĀ (tackle) and John HoustonĀ (linebacker) wreak havoc.
13. Florida State
13 of 25
Total Commitments: 13 (one 5-star;Ā four 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Prized in-state safety Derwin JamesĀ is the top-ranked player at his position and committed as a freshman. The 5-star prospect headlines a class filled with outstanding defensive backs, including 4-star FloridaĀ prospects Tyrek ColeĀ and Calvin Brewton.
Florida State beefs up itsĀ run defenseĀ with endĀ Michael BarnettĀ and linebacker Sh'mar Kilby-Lane. Top-ranked JUCO tight end Josh McNeilĀ adds to a position that's already deepĀ in Tallahassee, along with 3-star Peach State product Jalen Wilkerson.
De'Andre Johnson, aĀ dynamic quarterback from Jacksonville, could eventually find a home elsewhere on the field as a Seminole but will have a chance to compete as a passer.
Top Targets
Expect Jimbo Fisher to land some explosive pass-rushers prior to national signing day, with CeCe Jefferson (Florida) and Josh Sweat (Virginia) sitting atop the board. Florida State is still searching for a running back and could fill that need with an in-state rusher like Jacques Patrick.
The team's future outlook in the defensive secondary wouldĀ appear even better if 5-star cornerback Tarvarus McFaddenĀ (Florida) commits. Florida State must fight off several suitors to keep 4-star Tallahassee receiverĀ John BurtĀ in town and may stand a better chance with Miami pass target Da'Vante Phillips.
12. Georgia
14 of 25
Total Commitments:Ā 13 (one 5-star; five 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
In-state defensive ends Natrez PatrickĀ and Chauncey RiversĀ each have the makings of special edge-rushers at the next level. Georgia landed homegrown 5-star athlete Terry GodwinĀ in January, but he is still open to playing at Alabama or Auburn, based onĀ a conversation withĀ Bleacher Report at The Opening.
Christian Owens (Georgia) is a versatile 6'5" receiver who addsĀ sizeĀ to the passing game along with tight end Jackson HarrisĀ (Tennessee). Fellow 4-star pledge Rico McGrawĀ (Tennessee)Ā brings toughness to the cornerback position.
Top Targets
No. 1 overall 2015 recruit Trent ThompsonĀ (Georgia) has topped this list for a long time, but the 5-star defensive tackle continues to survey his options. Top-ranked defensive end Josh SweatĀ (Virginia) enjoyed a visit to Georgia this spring and would create quite a tandem with Thompson.
Safety Rashad RoundtreeĀ and linebacker Roquan SmithĀ are coveted in-state prospects who could send this class soaring up the rankings.
11. Miami
15 of 25
Total Commitments:Ā 20 (five 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Miami has loaded up on athleticism with homegrown prospects. Florida products Dexter WilliamsĀ (running back), Jordan CronkriteĀ (athlete), Mark WaltonĀ (running back), Jordan ScarlettĀ (running back)Ā and Dwayne LawsonĀ (quarterback) are each 4-star recruits.
An abundance of rushers makes it likely that at least one will eventually decommit for a clearer path to playing time.
The defensive line welcomes in Gulf Coast disruptors Scott PatchanĀ and Ryan Fines. Louisiana receiver Terrell ChatmanĀ is a rare out-of-state pledge who has plenty of potential along the perimeter.
Top Targets
Miami is searching for help at offensive skill positions, with 4-star tight end Devonaire ClaringtonĀ and 4-star receiver Da'Vante PhillipsĀ each presenting nearby options.
The Hurricanes can addressĀ defensive depthĀ by landing a pair of Miami prospects. Safety Jaquan JohnsonĀ and linebacker Tevon ConeyĀ are worth keeping an eye on as the process progresses.
10. Notre Dame
16 of 25
Total Commitments:Ā 17 (six 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
The Fighting Irish will welcome in 4-star offensive linemenĀ Jerry TilleryĀ (Louisiana) andĀ Tristen HogeĀ (Idaho), whoĀ makes a strongĀ case as theĀ country's top center. Running back Josh AdamsĀ (Pennsylvania) certainly appreciates their presence.
Receivers Miles BoykinĀ (Illinois) and C.J. SandersĀ (California) bring serious speed to the passing game. Notre Dame managed to flip a pair of former Big Ten commits in linebacker Josh Barajas (Indiana; Penn State) and cornerback Shaun Crawford (Ohio; Michigan).
Top Targets
Brian Kelly is searching for a new quarterback commit after losing Blake BarnettĀ to Alabama. Possibilities include Deondre FrancoisĀ (Florida) and Texas Tech pledge Jarrett StidhamĀ (Texas).
If 5-star cornerback Iman MarshallĀ (California) elects to depart the West Coast, South Bend is a potential landing spot. However, Notre Dame is more likely to land Philadelphia defensive back John Reid.
9. USC
17 of 25
Total Commitments:Ā 10 (two 5-stars;Ā four 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Head coach Steve Sarkisian has hit the recruiting trail running since his arrival,Ā resultingĀ inĀ an impressive flurry of top-tier pledges as the 2014 cycle ended and a monumental commitment that set the tone for his 2015 class. California quarterback Ricky Town, a 5-star talent, flipped from Alabama to USC in late January.
With a top-ranked passer in place as its foundation, the class' talent levelĀ continues to increase. The Trojans landed a pair of dominant offensive tackles to protect Town in 5-star Chuma EdogaĀ (Georgia) and 4-star Roy HemsleyĀ (California).
Defensive tackle Jacob DanielĀ and linebacker Cameron SmithĀ were crucial in-state commits in May and provide a pair of instant-impact 4-star defenders. California cornerback Isaiah LangleyĀ pledged to USC over several Pac-12 rivals at The Opening.
Top Targets
USC aims to surround Town with plenty of options in the passing game, so the search is well underway for at least two top receivers. Anaheim standout Equanimeous St. BrownĀ and Southern California transplant Cordell BroadusĀ (Nevada) would beĀ pivotal pickups.
Broadus is the son of celebrity USC fan Snoop Dogg.
The Trojans hope to build the defensive front with help from 5-star locals Keisean Lucier-SouthĀ and Rasheem Green. Long Beach defensive backĀ Iman MarshallĀ may be the best prospect in California this year.
8. LSU
18 of 25
Total Commitments: 13 (two 5-stars; five 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
LSU landed top-ranked cornerback Kevin ToliverĀ (Florida) during his sophomore season. The 5-star Jacksonville standout joins 4-star Baton Rouge safety Kevin HenryĀ as key additions to the defensive secondary.
After landing No. 1 2014 running back recruit Leonard Fournette, the Tigers will add outstanding depth to the backfield. Nick BrossetteĀ and Derrius Guiceāboth 4-star Louisiana rushersācombined to run for 3,300 yards and 50 touchdowns in 2013.
Brossette is already the state's all-time leader in total touchdowns.
Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron is also set to welcome 5-star tackle Maea TeuhemaĀ (Texas), a former Longhorns pledge, and 4-star wide receiver Jazz FergusonĀ (Louisiana).
Top Targets
Les Miles would like to pair Toliver with another top coverage cornerback like Tarvarus McFaddenĀ (Florida) or Kendall SheffieldĀ (Texas). LSU made the latest cut for 5-starĀ quarterback Torrance GibsonĀ (Florida), landing at No. 3 among his top seven.
McFadden and Gibson are teammates at American Heritage High School.
It seems like LSU perennially pursues impressive receivers out of New Orleans and 5-star prospect Tyron JohnsonĀ is the latest pass-catcher to warrant attention in the Big Easy.
7. South Carolina
19 of 25
Total Commitments:Ā 20 (eight 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
The GamecocksĀ should keep up the pace defensively in coming years, as dynamic athletes Shameik BlackshearĀ (South Carolina),Ā Sherrod PittmanĀ (Florida) and Arden KeyĀ (Georgia)Ā provide playmakers in the front seven. Cornerback Mark FieldsĀ will be key to secondary success.
Dual-threat quarterback Lorenzo NunezĀ gives head coach Steve Spurrier an intriguing 4-star signal-caller to develop. He headlines a solid mix of versatile offensive weapons, along withĀ receiver Dexter NealĀ (Georgia), running back A.J. TurnerĀ (Virginia)Ā and versatile athlete Jalen ChristianĀ (Maryland), who is capable of contributing on both sides of the ball.
Top Targets
The Gamecocks are expected to regain a commitment from 4-star defensive endĀ Dante SawyerĀ (Georgia), who was forced to go the JUCO route after initially signing with South Carolina in February. He would add a serious spark to the team's pass-rushing efforts.
In-stateĀ tackle Albert HugginsĀ is another compelling target on the defensive line, along with JUCO starĀ D.J. Jones.
6. Tennessee
20 of 25
Total Commitments:Ā 20 (two 5-star;Ā four 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Top-ranked receiver Preston WilliamsĀ (Georgia) pledged to the Volunteers during the early stages of his junior season, giving head coach Butch Jones a 5-star playmaker to build around. Tennessee reached back into the Peach State for 4-star defensive end Andrew Butcher.
The Volunteers' 2014 recruiting success was based on keeping premier in-state players at home, and those efforts have continued into this cycle. Tennessee holds commitments from 4-star homegrown talents Jack JonesĀ (offensive tackle) and Jauan JenningsĀ (athlete), among others.
Elite JUCO running back Alvin KamaraĀ is a candidate to receive early carries in Knoxville. Volunteers legacy Kahlil McKenzieĀ (California)Ā provides Tennessee withĀ a 5-star presence at defensive tackle.
Top Targets
The Volunteers would be wise to pick up two quarterbacks in this class and remainĀ the top contender for 5-star Torrance GibsonĀ (Florida).
There are still strides to be made within the state, as 4-stars Drew RichmondĀ (offensive tackle) and Kyle PhillipsĀ (defensive end) remain uncommitted. Tennessee can continue toĀ set the tone on defense by landing another coveted 5-star tackle like Tim SettleĀ (Virginia).
5. Clemson
21 of 25
Total Commitments:Ā 20 (one 5-star;Ā six 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
The Tigers continue to stockpile talent at receiver, as 4-star Florida playmaker Deon CainĀ is expected to transition from quarterback in college and appeared ready for the challenge at The Opening. He adds to a passing attack that is also set to welcome 4-star tight end Garrett WilliamsĀ (Florida), who chose the Tigers over Florida State despite his status as a Seminole legacy.
Offensive tackle Mitch HyattĀ is a 5-star talent who may be the best all-around blocker in high school. He'll team up with 4-star tackleĀ Jake FruhmorgenĀ on a strengthened line.
In-state quarterback prospect Kelly BryantĀ is an excellent fit for the Tigers and should have an opportunity to develop as a reserve during his first few seasons on campus. Defensive ends Sterling JohnsonĀ (North Carolina) and Clelin FerrellĀ (Virginia)Ā could challenge for an early role in the rotation.
Top Targets
Clemson may not be done adding top-tier pass targets. The team remains a formidable contender for 5-star receiver George CampbellĀ (Florida), who decommitted from Michigan during the winter.
The defense would receive a boost if head coach Dabo Swinney is successful in landing 5-star defensive tackles Shy Tuttle (North Carolina) andĀ Tim SettleĀ (Virginia) or 4-star linebacker Ricky DeBerry (Virginia).
4. Penn State
22 of 25
Total Commitments: 17 (11 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Penn State continues to plunder New Jersey for its top talent. Quarterback Brandon Wimbush, wide receiver Juwan Johnson, linebacker Manny BowenĀ and guard Steven GonzalezĀ highlight the latest Garden State grab.
In-state runningĀ backs Andre RobinsonĀ and Saquon BarkleyĀ areĀ eachĀ versatileĀ 4-star talents who will be counted on to contribute early. Fellow Pennsylvania products Sterling JenkinsĀ and Ryan BatesĀ areĀ dominant offensive tackles with potential to serve as bookends for several years.
Adam McLeanĀ (Maryland) ranks among the Mid-Atlantic region's premierĀ defensive tackles. It's hard to believe this class didn't have a single commitment until Feb. 15.
Top Targets
James Franklin needs to address the defensive backfield, and Philadelphia cornerback John ReidĀ is a top priority. Penn State could pair him with 4-star in-stateĀ ball hawkĀ Jordan Whitehead.
Offensive lineman Matthew BurrellĀ spent time at Happy Valley earlier this year and told Bleacher Report he plans to return for another visitĀ in the future. Fellow Virginia prospect Tim SettleĀ is a key target at defensive tackle.
3. Auburn
23 of 25
Total Commitments: 17 (one 5-star;Ā 10 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Auburn brought record-settingĀ JUCO running back Jovon RobinsonĀ (Tennessee) back into the fold two years after he was forced to leave the program during his freshman training camp for academic reasons. He'll join 4-star Florida product D'Anfernee McGriffĀ in a crowded offensive backfield.
Tigers rushers will have plenty of support up front from an incoming group heavy on Peach State products. Offensive linemen Kaleb Kim, Bailey SharpĀ and Marquel HarrellĀ are each from Georgia. Fellow Georgia prospectĀ Jordan ColbertĀ and former Ohio State commit Ben EdwardsĀ (Florida) form a 4-star safety tandem, while top JUCO cornerback Tony BridgesĀ (Mississippi)Ā further solidifies the secondary.
Quarterback Tyler Queen (Georgia) and electric athlete Kerryon JohnsonĀ (Alabama) will provide immediate depth on offense. In-state standout Darrell WilliamsĀ is a menacing outside linebacker prospect from defendingĀ national public school champion Hoover High School.
Top Targets
Despite holding a commitment from Queen, head coach Gus Malzahn remains firmly in the mix for dual threat talent Torrance Gibson (Florida). The 5-star athlete appears to be focused on Auburn and Tennessee, though other possibilities remain. OrlandoĀ passerĀ Deondre FrancoisĀ is likely to decide between Auburn and Florida State before August.
The Tigers aim to address the defensive line, focused on 5-star tackles Trent ThompsonĀ (Georgia) and Daron PayneĀ (Alabama). Five-star athlete Terry Godwin,Ā a Georgia commit, is still seriously considering Auburn, along with top-ranked offensive tackle Martez IveyĀ (Florida).
2. Texas A&M
24 of 25
Total Commitments: 18 (three 5-stars;Ā eight 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Texas A&M reeled in Aggies legacy Kyler Murray, a 5-star Dallas-area quarterback who strongly considered Oregon. He gained potential top-tier targets whenĀ in-stateĀ receivers Kemah Siverand and Damarkus LodgeĀ joined the class.
Tight end Jordan DavisĀ and running back Jay Bradford, both 4-star Texas talents, add to an impressive offensive arsenal. Four-star in-state offensive tackles Trevor ElbertĀ and Connor LanfearĀ provide push up front.
Daylon MackĀ (Texas) deserves to be in the discussion as America's best defensive tackle recruit.Ā The 5-star stud willĀ beef up the defensive interior, while 4-star in-state safeties Justin DunningĀ and Larry PryorĀ instantly upgrade the secondary.
Top Targets
The rich could get richer when it comes to Texas A&M's receiving corps. The Aggies are still in the hunt for top-tier receivers Tyron JohnsonĀ (Louisiana) and Christian KirkĀ (Arizona), who worked well with Murray at The Opening.
Coach Kevin Sumlin must continue to collect impact defenders in order to perennially compete in the SEC. LinebackerĀ Malik JeffersonĀ and cornerback Kendall Sheffield, both 5-star Texans,Ā are paramount to those efforts.
1. Alabama
25 of 25
Total Commitments: 19 commitments (one 5-star; 14 4-stars)
Best of the Bunch
Alabama is yet again loading up on talent along the defensive front,Ā highlighted byĀ 4-star Georgia edge-rushers Mekhi BrownĀ and Jonathan Ledbetter. They're two of 12 Crimson Tide commits who rate among the top eightĀ prospects at their respective position, including No. 1 inside linebacker Leo LewisĀ (Illinois), No. 2 safety Deionte ThompsonĀ (Texas) and 5-star cornerback Minkah FitzpatrickĀ (New Jersey).
First-year offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin is quickly putting the pieces in place for success, firming up the offensive line with 4-star pledges Dallas WarmackĀ (Georgia), Lester CottonĀ (Alabama) and Richie PetitbonĀ (Washington, D.C.). The touted linemen will look to make holes forĀ explosiveĀ running back Desherrius FlowersĀ (Alabama) and giveĀ former Notre Dame quarterbackĀ commit Blake BarnettĀ (the Elite 11 winner) time to work.
Nick Saban's spring game pledges featured 4-star Florida high schoolĀ teammates Shawn Burgess-Becker, a versatile athlete,Ā and Calvin Ridley, who is won overall 7-on-7 tournament MVP honors at The Opening. Tight end Hale Hentges (Missouri), rated No. 2 nationally among players at the position, is among Alabama's other offensive additions
Top Targets
Defensive tackle Daron PayneĀ is the team's top in-state target at this point, though fellow 5-star Tim SettleĀ (Virginia) would serve as an excellent consolation prize. Cornerback Kendall SheffieldĀ (Texas)Ā could be lured away from the Lone Star State, while defensive end CeCe JeffersonĀ is a top priority in Florida.
All recruit ratings courtesy of 247Sports unless otherwise noted.
.jpg?w=2560 "Media AP Job Cuts")
