Jared Mayden Names Final 3: Where Will Talented 4-Star CB Land?

Back in November, Jared Mayden announced that he had a top five of Ohio State, Oregon, TCU, Texas A&M and Rice, trimming a list of 10 schools.

On Tuesday, the 4-star cornerback became one step closer to a committed athlete. Mayden's top five is now a top three, telling Justin Hopkins of 247Sports that Ohio State, Oregon and TCU made the latest cut.

Mayden has a chance to either join the defending national champion, assist the national runner-up in its efforts to get over January's hump or play for the program that feels it was robbed of an opportunity to compete in the College Football Playoff. All three programs make for a great fit, and Mayden told Hopkins he'll make a decision after visiting Oregon in April.

All three schools like their chances in landing Mayden, the nation's No. 8 cornerback. From a needs perspective, each school would like to build its secondary around him. Mayden is a solid cover corner who possesses good size, speed, agility and strength.

Mayden has plenty of time to make a final decision, but TCU could be the team to beat, as it is the closest school to home. TCU is roughly an hour away from his home, which could mean getting back to Sachse High School to watch his younger brother, 2018 dual-threat quarterback Jalen Mayden. It also would mean their parents would have all three Mayden brothers playing football in Texas. Oldest brother James Mayden plays for Rice.

The Horned Frogs have seven commitments in the 2016 class with only one cornerback pledge in 4-star KeShawn Somerville. And with what the Horned Frogs did on the football field last season, it's not difficult to see why they're an attractive option. Mayden has said on multiple occasions that he has a lot of respect for Gary Patterson and his staff.

Oregon is the school with the growing reputation, the stylish wardrobe and the high-octane offense. Defensively, Oregon is still working some kinks out, but this could be where Mayden comes into play—particularly in a conference that loves to pass the ball. The Ducks only have three commitments so far, and Mayden could be a cornerstone defensive grab. Mayden's had a good relationship with secondary coach John Neal since his sophomore year.

And then there's Ohio State. Fresh off a national title, the Buckeyes are in the race for several big-name recruits. Ohio State has six 2016 commits, but none are defensive backs. In fact, only one is a defensive player, 4-star defensive end Jonathon Cooper. He's being recruited to Ohio State by secondary coach Chris Ash, but Mayden told Hopkins he has a good relationship with the entire Ohio State staff.

Mayden told Hopkins that a decision could come in April, but he may push it back to the summer depending on if he's selected to participate in The Opening in July.

"If I'm able to get into that event, I will probably make my commitment there," Mayden told Hopkins. "We'll just have to see what happens."

Whatever the decision, look for Mayden to take his time and weigh his options, as he has three strong candidates on his list.

Damon Sayles is a National Recruiting Analyst for Bleacher Report. All player ratings courtesy of 247Sports' composite ratings. Follow Damon on Twitter: @DamonSayles