Best College Football Program Fit for Each Uncommitted 2016 5-Star

Prospects in the 2016 recruiting class are approaching their final summer break of high school, and several key questions in this cycle remain unanswered. Pivotal storylines feature many uncommitted standouts, including approximately two-thirds of the 5-stars in 247Sports' composite ratings.

Some of these recruitment processes seem to be nearing their conclusions, while others are sure to last until national signing day.

Here's a look at the ideal landing spot for each uncommitted 5-star player, based on recruiting developments and scheme fits.

OL Ben Bredeson

Credit: 247Sports

High School: Arrowhead (Hartland, Wis.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 26 overall; No. 4 offensive tackle

Size: 6'5", 293 lbs

Recruitment Update

The in-state Badgers have built a strong reputation as a program that produces top-tier offensive linemen, and Ben Bredeson certainly has the makings of another star in Madison. However, programs throughout the country are focused on prying him away from Wisconsin.

Bredeson named the Badgers, Alabama, Michigan, Ohio State, Notre Dame and Stanford his favorites in early May during a conversation with Wescott Eberts of SBNation. He visited the Wolverines and Fighting Irish earlier this spring.

Best Fit: Michigan

Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh knows he needs to shore things up in the trenches in order to run his desired offensive attack, and there's room for Bredeson to make an immediate impact. Michigan has managed to assemble an impressive potential offensive backfield with key commitments since the new regime arrived, and adding an elite offensive lineman to the mix is pivotal.

Bredeson's older brother, Jack, joins the Wolverines baseball team this year. Ben Bredeson could create a promising bookend pair by joining forces with 4-star Illinois offensive tackle Erik Swenson, who pledged to Michigan as a sophomore.

DE Marlon Davidson

Credit: 247Sports

High School: Greenville (Greenville, Ala.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 24 overall; No. 3 strong-side defensive end

Size: 6'4", 260 lbs

Recruitment Update

Many anticipate that Marlon Davidson will pair up with former Carver High School teammate Lyndell Wilson in college, but "package" deals can be tricky to pull off when they involve premier prospects. They visited Florida State for the first time together in April, watching the Seminoles spring game.

Florida State, Michigan and USC each extended an offer during recent months. Outside of his home state, Georgia appears to be the strongest SEC contender.

Best Fit: Auburn

This is another situation that features family ties. Davidson's older brother, Kenneth Carter, won a national championship with the Tigers in 2011.

New Auburn defensive coordinator Will Mushcamp has recruits fired up, and Davidson could make a major difference for a front that adds 2015 signees Jeffery Holland and Byron Cowart this year.

His latest visit to campus took place in April, and signs are pointing toward a signing-day showdown between Alabama and Auburn. We'll bet that his background and familiarity with the Tigers makes the difference.

WR Nate Craig-Myers

Credit: 247Sports

High School: Tampa Catholic (Tampa, Fla.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 22 overall; No. 1 wide receiver

Size: 6'2", 205 lbs

Recruitment Update

Nate Craig-Myers wouldn't have been on this list just a few weeks ago. The Sunshine State standout previously pledged to Auburn, but most weren't surprised when he backed off that pledge on May 5.

We still wouldn't count the Tigers out in this race, though suitors like Ohio State, Baylor and Florida State are now coming on strong. His offer sheet is approaching 50 programs, with Oklahoma State as the latest addition.

Best Fit: Florida State

The Seminoles were viewed as a likely landing spot long before Craig-Myers decommitted from Auburn. Florida State hosted him on campus twice in April and is ardently recruiting him.

Jimbo Fisher has shown that he isn't afraid to implement true freshmen in his attack—newcomers Dalvin Cook and Travis Rudolph took on expansive roles during the 2014 season. Craig-Myers could follow suit and join 5-star quarterback Malik Henry in America's top-ranked recruiting class.

OL Willie Allen

Credit: 247Sports

High School: John Curtis (New Orleans, La.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 21 overall; No. 3 offensive tackle

Size: 6'7.5", 300 lbs

Recruitment Update

The battle for Willie Allen's commitment seems to center on SEC programs, which is often the case for New Orleans recruits. He traveled to in-state LSU for a spring game in April, but Ole Miss and Alabama also loom large.

His most recent scholarship offers continue to take this process nationwide. Penn State, Miami, Baylor and Texas are among programs that have joined the chase since February.

Best Fit: Ole Miss

The Rebels are best known for their "Land Shark" defensive attack, but pieces are in place for an up-and-down Ole Miss offense to steal the spotlight in coming years. Head coach Hugh Freeze currently holds commitments from 5-star quarterback Shea Patterson; a pair of 4-star pledges in the passing game (DeKaylin Metcalf and Octavious Cooley); and a 4-star running back duo (Denzel Mitchell and Justin Connor).

Ole Miss must address needs on the offensive line in order to bring everything together, and Allen tops the team's wish list. He is close with Patterson, and we anticipate that Allen will spend his college career protecting the prized passer.

DB Brandon Jones

Credit: 247Sports

High School: Nacogdoches (Nacogdoches, Texas)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 20 overall; No. 1 safety

Size: 5'11", 183 lbs

Recruitment Update

Brandon Jones initially identified Texas A&M as his leader, but things began to evolve last winter, when Alabama, Baylor, Texas, Ohio State and LSU entered the mix. The Aggies remain a strong suitor, but it's safe to say that this recruitment is more wide open than ever.

“They are still pretty high on my list, but I’ve been getting closer and closer with some other schools too,” Jones told Sonny Shipp of 247Sports.

Texas head coach Charlie Strong was his most recent host.

Best Fit: LSU

The Tigers welcomed Jones to Baton Rouge for a junior day earlier this year. The success of defensive backs at LSU is well documented, to the point that many consider the school "DBU."

“It’s always a big factor when you have a school that has a strong background with DBs,” he told Shipp. “[If] you know they are going to put you in a position to get to the league, then it’s all up to you.”

Tigers head coach Les Miles will be hard-pressed to pull him out of Texas, but there's a strong rapport developing between Jones and secondary coach Corey Raymond. He would be an ideal complement to Saivion Smith, a 5-star cornerback who committed in February.

LB Ben Davis

Credit: 247Sports

High School: Gordo (Gordo, Ala.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 19 overall; No. 4 outside linebacker

Size: 6'4", 230 lbs

Recruitment Update

Ben Davis, the son of all-time Alabama tackles leader Wayne Davis, is naturally a primary concern for Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban. The team is in strong position to land a legacy commitment, but other opportunities have caught Davis' attention.

Recent offers from Michigan and Notre Dame have added new elements, along with a first-time visit to Florida State in April. He's previously mentioned Ole Miss, Auburn and LSU as programs of interest.

"My dad will support whatever decision I make 110 percent," Davis told Bleacher Report. "He hasn't really pushed me toward one school or another. He just wants to make sure I'm comfortable with the situation wherever I go."

Best Fit: Alabama

Davis would be the latest in-state linebacker star to land in Tuscaloosa, a place he's grown extremely comfortable with throughout his upbringing. 

"They have all the national championships, an excellent coaching staff and very good structure," Davis said. "Coach Saban is fun to be around. But when it's time for business, he's about his business. He's one of the greatest."

Expect Davis to take multiple official visits but wind up with the team closest to his hometown (and his heart).

LB Caleb Kelly

Credit: 247Sports

High School: Clovis West (Fresno, Calif.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 18 overall; No. 3 outside linebacker

Size: 6'3", 215 lbs

Recruitment Update

Caleb Kelly has collected dozens of offers, and there's a strong chance he ends up leaving the West Coast for college. Ohio State and Georgia extended scholarships in April, while Notre Dame is expected to host him on campus early this summer.

UCLA, Washington and Oregon were the only Pac-12 programs to land on a list of favorites he unveiled in March. Florida State, LSU and Alabama are each viable options in the Southeast.

Best Fit: Oregon

The Ducks covet versatility and speed on both sides of the ball, appealing to hybrid athletes. Kelly is exactly that, playing with a skill set that blends safety and edge-rusher. While Oregon is best known for its scintillating offensive attack, the program has made strides when it comes to defensive talent.

Kelly could become a lynch-pin player at the heart of a steadily improving unit, aided by a strong front line. He would be in position to make an immediate impact in Eugene and become a game-changing defender for the Ducks.

DT Dexter Lawrence

Credit: 247Sports

High School: Wake Forest (Wake Forest, N.C.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 17 overall; No. 7 defensive tackle

Size: 6'5", 310 lbs

Recruitment Update

A trio of in-state programs would love to keep Dexter Lawrence at home, but UNC, N.C. State and Wake Forest will each have a difficult time accomplishing that feat given his expansive interest. Among that collection, the Tar Heels seem most legitimate in this process and have hosted him on campus several times.

Lawrence still has his sights set on at least 17 schools, according to Bud Elliott of SBNation, so we may not be near a resolution anytime soon. He attended a junior day at Clemson in January, while Florida and Florida State each appear to be in good position.

Best Fit: Florida

First-year Gators defensive coordinator Randy Shannon, the former Miami Hurricanes head coach, has prospects excited on the recruiting trail. He helped Jim McElwain close strong last signing day and is in good shape to build up his group with elite talent like Lawrence.

There's a sense that this recruitment might come down to Florida versus Florida State, though the Gators may have a more immediate need for his skill set. Lawrence would fit in perfectly in Gainesville, growing alongside 5-star 2015 signee CeCe Jefferson.

DT Ed Oliver

Credit: 247Sports

High School: Westfield (Houston, Texas)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 13 overall; No. 5 defensive tackle

Size: 6'2", 277 lbs

Recruitment Update

Ed Oliver is an outlier within this group due to the fact that his perceived front-runner doesn't reside in a Power Five conference. Hometown Houston is actually favored to sign him in 247Sports' Crystal Ball, but there's a long way to go here.

The Cougars signed his older brother, Marcus, in 2014, and he saw action in every game as a true freshman. That's a factor that can't be overlooked, regardless of high-profile programs like LSU, Ole Miss and Texas that are also in the mix.

Best Fit: LSU

New Tigers defensive line coach Ed Orgeron is beloved by those who've played for him and recruits who are still waiting for the opportunity. His attitude is infectious, and we expect that to resonate with Oliver, who refers to LSU as his childhood dream school.

“They don’t really have to sell me because I already love the school," Oliver told Hunter Paniagua of Scout.com. "It’s basically seeing if it works out and if it’s the best choice for me.”

The Tigers already hold a commitment from 5-star defensive tackle Edwin Alexander, but there's always room in the rotation for a talent like Oliver. This ultimately comes down to Oliver opting to be part of title chases in Baton Rouge rather than being the center of attention at Houston.

DT Rashard Lawrence

Credit: 247Sports

High School: Neville (Monroe, La.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 12 overall; No. 4 defensive tackle 

Size: 6'3", 305 lbs

Recruitment Update

This has been a back-and-forth battle between Alabama and LSU. Rashard Lawrence can expect the sales pitches to intensify on each side as long as he remains uncommitted. 

"Going to Tuscaloosa and seeing their facilities was great, and any visit to LSU is always a good time. Those are the two that stand out the most," Lawrence told Adam Hunsucker of The News Star.

Tennessee, Oklahoma, Florida State and Auburn are among programs that offered during the winter.

Best Fit: Alabama

LSU already holds one 5-star commitment at defensive tackle and was labeled a childhood dream school by another (Ed Oliver). This could come down to timing, as two top talents in place at the position in this class may deter Lawrence from joining the crowd.

Ultimately, we see Alabama convincing him to take on a role in Tuscaloosa. Former Neville High School standout Hootie Jones faced the same choice in 2014 and picked the Crimson Tide, who have a need at defensive tackle in the 2016 class after losing former pledge Benito Jones to Ole Miss.

LB Keion Joyner

Credit: 247Sports

High School: Havelock (Havelock, N.C.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 11 overall; No. 2 outside linebacker

Size: 6'3", 200 lbs

Recruitment Update

Earlier this spring, Keion Joyner identified Florida State, Auburn, LSU and North Carolina as his four favorites during a discussion with Ryan Bartow of 247Sports. He'll follow that announcement with multiple upcoming campus trips, according to his USA Today blog.

Joyner referenced upcoming visit plans for Texas A&M and Florida State. He also revealed that the Aggies had replaced Auburn in his top four. 

"I would have to say that the two coaches I talk to the most are Coach (Kevin) Steele at LSU and Coach (Brad) Lawing at Florida State," Joyner wrote.

Best Fit: Florida State

He fits the mold as a dynamic defender in a Seminoles defense stacked with stars. Florida State head coach Jimbo Fisher is likely to sign 5-star targets for the front and back of his defense, and Joyner is an aggressive athlete who fits perfectly in between.

His ability to contribute off the edge and downfield in pass coverage separates him from most defenders in this class. We think he'll find his fit in Tallahassee, where the Seminoles can groom Joyner as a future leader.

DT Julian Rochester

Credit: 247Sports

High School: McEachern (Powder Springs, Ga.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 10 overall; No. 3 defensive tackle

Size: 6'5.5", 315 lbs

Recruitment Update

Julian Rochester shared an updated list of favorites on Twitter last week, leaving the in-state Bulldogs on top. He rounded out his top five with Auburn, Clemson, Louisville and LSU.

Oregon is a wild-card program worth monitoring. The Ducks, listed eighth in Rochester's top 10, formally presented him with an offer three days later and signed former McEachern High School teammate Taj Griffin in the 2015 class.

Best Fit: Auburn

Before bumping the Bulldogs to No. 1 among his favorites, Rochester listed Auburn as the team to beat. This recruitment may be a collision course for the SEC rivals, and we think that there's a better opportunity to make an impact under the direction of Will Muschamp, who must feel needs along the defensive interior. 

Given the immense 2015 defensive line haul Georgia enjoyed and likely commitment from fellow 5-star tackle Derrick Brown, there's a stronger chance for Rochester to secure early playing time at Auburn. He could help free up a quality group of Tigers edge-rushers.

LB Lyndell Wilson

Credit: 247Sports

High School: Carver (Montgomery, Ala.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 8 overall; No. 1 outside linebacker

Size: 6'2", 220 lbs

Recruitment Update

Though Lyndell Wilson hasn't identified an outright favorite to this point, in-state powerhouses Auburn and Alabama are widely viewed as the teams to beat. 

"I’m still interested in anybody that has interest in me,” he told John Garcia Jr. of Scout.com. “I take care of what they tell me. And I want to take visits to schools to see where I fit in with these defensive schemes."

Expect this recruitment to last deep into the cycle and perhaps remain unsettled when February rolls around.

“I’m trying to wait it out until signing day. If I do commit, I won’t tell anybody, I’ll just tell the coach,” he told Garcia.

Other teams to watch include Florida State and LSU, which Wilson is set to visit in late May.

Best Fit: Alabama

Wilson could potentially pair up with fellow 5-star Alabama linebacker Ben Davis in Tuscaloosa. His length and quickness present options for a defensive coaching staff that is constantly juggling blue-chip recruits on the depth chart.

He could potentially contribute at safety, if his weight remains steady. Nick Saban may need to wait a while, but we think he'll get his guy.

DE Nick Bosa

Credit: 247Sports

High School: St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 7 overall; No. 2 strong-side defensive end 

Size: 6'4", 265 lbs

Recruitment Update

Nick Bosa is focused on four schools and expects to announce a commitment before his senior season.

"It is down to Florida State, Florida, Notre Dame and Ohio State. I know it will be one of those schools," he told Chad Simmons of Scout.com. "I cannot say it is definite, but I should have my decision made this summer."

The younger brother of Buckeyes star and potential top 2016 NFL draft pick Joey Bosa is viewed as a heavy Ohio State lean. It would be an upset if he doesn't end up in Columbus next year.

"Ohio State is on top, and it does have the edge," Bosa told Simmons. "I know the coaches there, and I am comfortable there, so I do have to give them the edge right now."

Best Fit: Ohio State

Life is good for Urban Meyer, who should be able to replace Joey with his "little" brother for years to come. They are very similar athletic specimens and play the game with relentlessness that fires up teammates.

The Buckeyes are a strong favorite for good reason. Ohio State has been diligent, playing to its strengths throughout the process, with defensive line coach Larry Johnson leading the charge.

"Coach Johnson really cares about his players, and I see that," Bosa told Simmons. "I also like how he coaches, his knowledge and just the kind of person he is."

DE Shavar Manuel

Credit: 247Sports

High School: IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 5 overall; No. 1 strong-side defensive end

Size: 6'4", 290 lbs

Recruitment Update

Shavar Manuel is among the most coveted prospects in the country, but there's a strong in-state vibe. This could develop into the latest chapter in an ongoing recruiting battle between Florida State and Florida.

The Seminoles have been pointed to as a favorite, and there were even reports that he committed to the program during a junior day visit until he disputed that news. Still, the Gators shouldn't be overlooked.

"[Coach McElwain's] on me and wants me bad," Manuel told Corey Bender of Scout.com. "Coach [Chris] Rumph, the defensive line coach, he wants me as well and sees me as another Dante [Fowler]. Florida, it's home, and there's much love up there."

LSU and Alabama top the list of teams that seem to be on the outside looking in.

Best Fit: Florida State

It isn't hard to imagine Manuel wreaking havoc in Tallahassee while working next to Josh Sweat, the top-rated defensive end prospect in last year's class.

"With Josh Sweat coming in, they're trying to get the defensive line really strong," he told Bender. "Pass rush is where I thought they were hurting last season, but they'll get there eventually."

It helps that fellow 5-star IMG Academy teammates Malik Henry and Isaac Nauta are already committed to Florida State.

DT Derrick Brown

Credit: 247Sports

High School: Lanier (Buford, Ga.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 4 overall; No. 2 defensive tackle

Size: 6'4", 305 lbs

Recruitment Update

There have been grumblings that Derrick Brown already secretly pledged to Georgia, though he dispelled that sentiment during a recent discussion with Michael Carvell of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

“I don’t want anybody to stop recruiting me because they think I’m already committed to one school. I’m open to everything," he said.

Brown remains a unanimous pick to end up in Athens when it comes to expert predictions in 247Sports' Crystal Ball.

Best Fit: Georgia

Brown could spearhead a strong in-state recruiting class for the Bulldogs, serving as a catalyst for quite a haul of Peach State defensive prospects. Georgia would love to have him join forces in the trenches with top overall 2015 prospect Trent Thompson, and signs are pointing toward that goal coming to fruition.

DT Rashan Gary

Credit: 247Sports

High School: Paramus Catholic (Paramus, N.J.)

247Sports Composite Ranking: No. 1 overall; No. 1 defensive tackle 

Size: 6'4", 290 lbs

Recruitment Update

Rashan Gary has played things close to the vest despite a constant spotlight. However, his visit list provides a glimpse at contenders in the mix. 

He's journeyed to nearby Rutgers multiple times, while fellow Big Ten members Michigan and Ohio State hosted him this spring. Gary previously traveled south to spend time at South Carolina, Clemson and Georgia.

He told Bleacher Report about plans to visit Alabama, Auburn, Ole Miss and Tennessee before next season. Volunteers quarterback commit Jarrett Guarantano, another New Jersey product, has been pushing him toward Knoxville.

"I'm trying to go to Tennessee with Jarrett and a couple other guys," Gary said. "A lot of guys are trying to get me to go places, but that's one that stands out a bit."

Best Fit: Michigan

Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh hopes to repeat history in Ann Arbor two classes after 5-star Paramus Catholic defensive back Jabrill Peppers signed with Michigan. The program gained an edge during the winter, when former Paramus Catholic coach Chris Partridge joined Harbaugh's recruiting staff.

Gary's comfort level with Michigan is strong, and a recent visit to campus further encouraged him.

"Michigan is going to do great things in a couple years," he said. "You may not see it this season, but Michigan will be an up-and-rising program soon."

His commitment would be a game-changer at Michigan, and expectations would be high from the start of his freshman campaign.

Recruit ratings courtesy of 247Sports