Which Powerhouse Teams Can Challenge Florida State for 4-Star CJ Cotman?
Florida prospect CJ Cotman enters this season primed to see his recruitment erupt, expanding a list of collegiate opportunities that already features several high-profile suitors.
The 5'10", 165-pound playmaker is one of the state's most scintillating high school juniors, considered a 4-star talent in composite rankings. Cotman rates sixth nationally among all-purpose backs in the 2017 class.
An in-state powerhouse appears to be strides ahead of other contending programs, as he named Florida State his top favorite during a discussion with Josh Newberg of 247Sports.
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Cotman claimed a Seminoles scholarship offer shortly before his sophomore season. More than a year later, Florida State co-offensive coordinator and primary recruiter Lawrence Dawsey continues to make the young standout feel wanted in Tallahassee.
"He’s got me high on FSU," Cotman told Newberg.
The Seminoles currently claim each expert's commitment prediction in 247Sports' Crystal Ball. He plans to spend time on campus this fall, according to Newberg.
Florida State already holds four 4-star pledges in its 2017 class, including running back Zaquandre White. Cotman looks capable of doing damage out of the backfield or lined up at receiver.
He caught 66 passes for 1,040 yards as an underclassman, adding 1,157 yards and 21 touchdowns on the ground, per MaxPreps. Cotman collected 215 total yards on 17 offensive touches in his 2015 season opener with Clearwater Central Catholic High School, scoring three times.
Florida State is certainly the early leader, but all indications are Cotman will take his time determining an ideal landing spot. Other possibilities include Clemson, Kentucky, Boston College and Louisville.
A pair of SEC programs may be destined to provide the strongest challenge for Seminoles head coach Jimbo Fisher and his staff. Cotman traveled to Georgia and Florida this summer, setting the stage for potential return trips during the season.
He expressed plans to visit both campuses again in the coming months, according to Newberg.
Cotman, arguably the premier prospect in talent-laden Pinellas County, would fill a need in either class. Both Florida and Georgia have secured top-tier 2017 quarterbacks and now aim to build versatile supporting casts for future offensive endeavors.
The Bulldogs are still searching for a fit at running back in the 2016 cycle, though in-state standout Elijah Holyfield may soon fill that slot. Florida added top-rated 2016 junior college running back Mark Thompson to its class in May, though the Gators are also without a rusher in the 2017 cycle.
Cotman could vie for immediate playing time in a variety of roles in either scheme as a true freshman. His quickest path to the field might ultimately be in the slot, where he can feast on defenders with elite shiftiness and impressive downfield awareness.
The Gators would be wise to ardently pursue Cotman, as head coach Jim McElwain attempts to revitalize an offense that has sputtered in recent years. Florida and Florida State typically cross paths on the recruiting trail, and he is the latest local standout to warrant shared interest.
Miami is also worth monitoring, though the situation is far more fluid in Coral Gables. Hurricanes head coach Al Golden holds top-10 classes in the 2016 and 2017 cycles, but another disappointing season may result in major changes.
"I haven’t been to Miami yet, but when I do get down there, I hope the staff catches my attention,” Cotman told Newberg.
This shapes up as a lengthy and nationwide pursuit, potentially lasting beyond his senior season. His offer list is likely to develop as things progress and film from his junior campaign is analyzed by coaches across the country.
Florida State is seemingly the team to beat at this stage, but expect plenty of developments down the road. Florida, Georgia and Miami are among those most likely to make a positive move on his hierarchy of college choices.
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