4-Star DE Ta'quon Graham Discusses College Announcement Date

For Temple, Texas, 4-star defensive end Ta'quon Graham, choosing a college destination isn't as difficult as some assumed.

In fact, it's already done.

Graham announced via Twitter early Monday evening that he will publicly announce his verbal commitment on May 27 after his team's spring game. But Monday night, the 6'3", 251-pound weak-side defensive end told Bleacher Report that the announcement will be more for those interested in his recruiting process.

"I pretty much know where I'm going," he said. "The school, No. 1, I'm getting a serious, good vibe off them. And No. 2, I've been talking to the coaches a lot and establishing those relationships. I did my research on [the school], and it just felt like the right choice. Everything about it just feels right."

Graham said he'll publicly choose among five schools—Texas, Texas A&M, TCU, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State. The winning school will get the nation's No. 11 weak-side defensive end and a Top 200 player in the 2017 class. Graham's 247Sports Crystal Ball predictions point heavily to Texas, but he said he's kept every school high and is appreciative of each of his 22 total offers.

The winning school gets a defender in Graham who is long, quick and tenacious. He creates separation well and shows a level of athleticism and a will to learn, something college coaches will use to help him mature into a mechanically strong defensive end and an overall leader at the next level.

"Collectively, I can see myself an All-American and an academic All-American in college," Graham said. "I can see [coaches] making me the best player I can be. It's all about establishing those relationships and having that good vibe."

On the field, Graham was a first-team all-state selection as a junior, recording 50 tackles and 11.5 sacks. Of those 50 tackles, 23 were behind the line of scrimmage. He also had three forced fumbles.

Graham said the days are "going by super fast," and he's more than excited to announce next month. Of the five schools he's expected to choose from, only Texas has a defensive end committed, 4-star Lagaryonn Carson, who is expected to line up as a strong-side end.

Graham has made two reported trips to Texas this month, including a trip there over the weekend. He also has visited Texas A&M this month and TCU last month.

Credit: Student Sports

Visits have been very important for him, as he doesn't want to be an athlete that second-guesses his decision.

"It hasn't really been that difficult for me so far," he said of recruiting. "I just know that I don't want to choose wrong. That's the worst feeling you can get. I've been sitting down and talking with my family before I make any decisions.

"But now, I'm pretty much set. I think I'm ready."

Graham additionally said he has a 3.2 grade-point average and is looking to major in business. Being an All-American is a goal of his, but also being an academic All-American would complete his college goals.

"That should be the main reason why you go to college," he said. "I mean, you're getting your education paid for. It's a really big goal for me. I take that seriously, to become great in and out of the classroom. Grades are important."

Damon Sayles is a National Recruiting Analyst for Bleacher Report. All quotes were obtained firsthand. All player ratings are courtesy of 247Sports' composite ratings. Follow Damon via Twitter: @DamonSayles