4-Star 2017 WR Tarik Black 'Loved' Alabama Visit, Hopes to Earn Michigan Offer

Halfway through his high school career, Connecticut wide receiver Tarik Black already holds 10 collegiate scholarship offers and appears on the verge of blowing up as a nationally coveted recruit.

The Class of 2017 playmaker, who measured 6'3" and weighed 196 pounds at a recent regional Nike camp in New Jersey, possesses a formidable physique. His past production at Cheshire Academy proves he brings more than just a big frame to the football field. 

Black, a top-100 prospect rated 12th nationally among receivers in 247Sports' composite rankings, caught 97 passes for 1,671 yards and 21 touchdowns as an underclassman, according to MaxPreps. He also averaged nearly 35 yards per punt return in 2014.

His physical maturity and immediate impact at the high school level quickly caught the attention of college coaching staffs. Black landed offers from Boston College, Temple and Syracuse before the start of sophomore year.

"I never thought I would get my first offers as a freshman, so that was amazing and a pretty big deal," he said. 

His recruiting journey remains in its early stages, but Black expanded his horizons at a young age. His visit list features Syracuse, UConn, Boston College and Rutgers—Northeast programs located within a manageable car ride from home.

However, a trip to Tuscaloosa tops his list of experiences so far. 

Black was one of several standout athletes from across the country to attend a Crimson Tide junior day event in late January. Though he has yet to receive an offer from Alabama, it's a visit that will stick with him moving forward.

"The coaching staff creates a great atmosphere, and those facilities are off the hook," Black said. "I loved everything about the environment during my time down there."

Nick Saban and his staff have extended offers to 10 wide receivers in the 2017 class at this stage, according to 247Sports. None of those offers belong to a Northeast recruit, so further talent evaluation could eventually prove fortuitous for Black.

He seems much closer to landing an offer from another well-known head coach: Jim Harbaugh. His staff has picked up steam with Black's recruitment and may be on the verge of presenting an offer.

"I think things are about to heat up with Michigan," Black said. "(Tight ends coach) Jay Harbaugh and I have talked a few times, while (pass game coordinator) Jedd Fisch seems really hyped about me. They're coming to my school to watch me work out in May, so I'm excited about that chance."

On the surface, an in-person visit from the staff in Connecticut points to a possible new opportunity.

"Coach Jay Harbaugh said he wouldn't be surprised if Coach Fisch offered me," Black said. "We haven't met in person yet, but I really respect what they're trying to build at Michigan. Hopefully they'll get better and better every year with these recruiting classes."

In terms of familiarity, teams must work to catch the Maryland Terrapins. The Big Ten newcomers are in good standing with Black, who mentioned the possibility of visiting campus at College Park sometime soon.

"Right now I have the best relationship with the Maryland coaching staff," he said. "Coach (John Dunn), the recruiting coordinator and I talk every week or so."

Maryland and Rutgers are his current Big Ten offers, while Virginia and Duke are among other options on the table. 

Black aims to spend time beyond nearby regions by venturing to various campuses. Though he has yet to set any dates, his interest in a West Coast tour is legitimate and could include Arizona State, USC and UCLA.

He also identified Michigan and Ohio State as potential destinations on his developing itinerary. With nearly two years remaining until Black's letter of intent is signed, there is likely to be a long list of coaching staffs clamoring for his presence on campus as things progress.

"Whichever team signs me will get a tall, long receiver who can run consistent routes and catch the ball with quality hands," he said. "I have a big body, so I can shield defenders, get up and high-point the ball when it comes my way."

Clearly, any perceived disadvantage due to his proximity from premier programs can be overcome by continued commanding performances on the field.

"We don't get as much exposure for big-time recruiting in Connecticut, so that gives me a mental edge when I compete at camps elsewhere," Black said. "I want to prove that kids from Connecticut can ball against players from the South and players from the West Coast."

All quotes obtained firsthand by Bleacher Report National Recruiting Analyst Tyler Donohue.

Recruit ratings courtesy of 247Sports.