Chase Lucas to Arizona State: Sun Devils Land 4-Star ATH Prospect

Top athlete recruit Chase Lucas, who is one of the best players in the 2016 class, has decided to attend Arizona State, per Justin Hopkins of 247Sports, who confirmed Lucas' decision.  

A native of Arizona, Lucas is rated a 4-star and is ranked as the No. 13 athlete in the 2016 class by 247Sports. He's listed as an all-purpose running back and cornerback and has the frame to play either position at 6'1" and 182 pounds. 

If Lucas is going to stay on the offensive side as a running back, he will need to add more bulk to his frame before playing every down.

Richard Obert of AZCentral.com raved about Lucas' rushing ability heading into his senior season, writing, "He has been a varsity starter since his sophomore year, making big gains each year. Now, he's on top, and there is no going back. He hits the hole faster and harder than anyone in Arizona."

That glowing review of his ability lines up with his scouting report, as ESPN.com praised his ability to hit top speed and go once he gets the ball:

"

Very natural runner who is light on his feet with fluid lateral movements to avoid traffic. A threat to bounce and get the corner or cut back and split the seam. A glider and quick accelerator through second level to break off long runs. Wastes little movement changing direction; difficult to line up for direct hit in the open field.

"

You won't find many running backs beyond the high school level who can handle carrying a full load and are as thin as Lucas is. That's his main knock right now, though it's also one of the easiest problems to fix with the proper coaching and diet. 

Adding that extra bulk may cost Lucas a small amount of speed, but being able to break tackles and pick up those tough yards to go with the skills he already possesses as a runner and receiver will make him even more valuable, especially in the tough Pac-12 South.

Lucas is the kind of prospect head coach Todd Graham will be thrilled to land. He's got strong present skills and plenty of untapped raw potential to become a tremendous asset over the next four years. It may take some time to see the finished product, but the wait will be worth it.