B/R CFB Recruiting 200: Top 200 Overall Recruits in Class of 2017
After thorough study using specific scoring criteria, Bleacher Report recruiting analysts Damon Sayles, Sanjay Kirpalani and Tyler Donohue have graded the top 200 players in the 247Sports composite rankings and provided in-depth analysis. As the summer camp circuit comes to a close, Bleacher Report provides a position-by-position breakdown of the best college football recruits. Today, we present the Overall Top 200.
The final stretch of high school has arrived for a talent-packed 2017 recruiting class. After three seasons and several series of showcase circuits, this group is now nearly six months shy of national signing day.
Some prospects secured scholarship offers in middle school, while others didn't emerge on the national radar until recently, representing the diversity of college football's recruiting process. Now approaching their senior campaigns, a lauded collection of players step into a larger spotlight, attracting attention from an array of collegiate coaching staffs.
In between summer showcases and high school training camp, it's an appropriate time to reassess this class across the board. Extensive film review and multiyear in-person scouting put B/R in a position to evaluate the top 200 athletes listed in 247Sports' composite rankings, a culmination of ratings among recruiting industry leaders.
Before we break down the field position-by-position, here's an overall peek at college football's future impact performers, including a deeper look at 5-star recruits.
Player order and star ratings based on 247Sports' composite rankings through July 18. Unless otherwise noted, player stats are courtesy of 247Sports.
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200. 4-star OC Brett Neilon,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to USC
199. 4-star S Montaric Brown, Ashdown HS (Ashdown, Arkansas)
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Arkansas and LSU
198. 4-star LB Will Ignont,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Auburn and Georgia
197. 4-star DT Eric Crosby,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Tennessee
196. 4-star OG Kayden Lyles,
Bleacher Report Score: 88/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Wisconsin
195. 4-star DE Markaviest Bryant,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Auburn, Florida State and Georgia
194. 4-star OT Joshua Lugg,
Bleacher Report Score: 88/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Notre Dame
193. S Isaiah Pola-Mao, Mountain Pointe HS (Phoenix, Arizona)
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Arizona State, USC and Washington
192. 4-star CB LeAnthony Williams Jr.,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Clemson
191. 4-star CB Elijah Molden,
Bleacher Report Score: 88/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Oregon, Stanford and USC
190. 4-star OT Stephan Zabie,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas A&M
189. 4-star DE Ryan Johnson,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Auburn and Florida State
188. 4-star WR Jalen Reagor, Waxahachie HS (Waxahachie, Texas)
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Oklahoma
187. 4-star CB Brad Stewart,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Auburn, Miami and Mississippi State
186. 4-star RB Kylin Hill,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Mississippi State
185. 4-star WR Terrell Bynum,
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Washington
184. 4-star CB Alex Perry,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Arizona State, Colorado and Michigan
183. 4-star DE Taquon Graham,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Texas, Texas A&M and TCU
182. 4-star TE Hunter Bryant,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Washington
181. 4-star DE Jordan Williams,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Clemson, Tennessee and Virginia
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180. 4-star OG Edward Ingram,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to LSU
179. 4-star RB Sione Heimuli-Lund,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Stanford
178. 4-star ATH Markquese Bell,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Clemson, Michigan, Ohio State and Rutgers
177. 4-star CB Justin Broiles,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Oklahoma
176. 4-star CB Tre Brown,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Oklahoma
175. 4-star RB Colin Wilson,
Bleacher Report Score: 86/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Louisville, Notre Dame and South Carolina
174. 4-star OT Kendall Randolph,
Bleacher Report Score: 88/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Auburn and Michigan
173. 4-star OT Henry Bainivalu,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Michigan, Oregon and Washington
172. 4-star QB Chris Robison, John
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Oklahoma
171. 4-star TE Cole Kmet,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Notre Dame
170. 4-star RB Brian Robinson,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Alabama
169. 4-star CB Kary Vincent
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include LSU, Texas and Texas A&M
168. 4-star WR Jaylen Harris,
Bleacher Report Score: 88/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Michigan State, Ohio State and Tennessee
167. 4-star LB Levi Jones,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include LSU, Texas and USC
166. 4-star ATH Alaric Williams,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Auburn
165. 4-star DT Fred Hansard,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Penn State and Rutgers
164. 4-star OT Kai-Leon Herbert,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Michigan
163. 4-star DE Addison Gumbs,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Oklahoma, USC and Washington
162. 4-star LB Avery Roberts,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Nebraska
161. 4-star OT Aaron Banks,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Michigan, Oregon and USC
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160. 4-star WR Omar Manning,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Oklahoma, Texas and TCU
159. 4-star QB Ryan Kelley,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Arizona State
158. 4-star S Derrick Tucker,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Texas A&M
157. 4-star WR Tyrell Shavers,
Bleacher Report Score: 86/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Alabama
156. 4-star RB Eno Benjamin,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Iowa
155. 4-star RB A.J. Davis,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Florida, South Carolina and West Virginia
154. 4-star ATH Chadarius Townsend,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Alabama
153. 4-star QB Sam Ehlinger,
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Texas
152. 4-star WR Daquon Green,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Florida
151. 4-star DE Jake Lawler,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to North Carolina
150. 4-star OG Nick Brahms,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Auburn
149. 4-star ATH Salvon Ahmed,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Stanford, USC and Washington
148. 4-star S Robert Barnes,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Oklahoma
147. 4-star QB Tristan Gebbia,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Nebraska
146. 4-star DT Darnell Ewell,
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Notre Dame
145. 4-star CB Jaylon Johnson,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Cal, Oklahoma and USC
144. 4-star OG Wes Harris,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to TCU
143. 4-star S Chaz Ah You,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Oregon, UCLA and Washington
142. 4-star LB Nathan Proctor,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Maryland, Penn State and Virginia Tech
141. 4-star WR Tylan Wallace,
Bleacher Report Score: 88/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Oklahoma State
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140. 4-star S Bubba Bolden,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Arizona State, Ole Miss and USC
139. 4-star WR Damion Miller,
Bleacher Report Score: 87/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Texas
138. 4-star ATH Tray Bishop,
Bleacher Report Score: 88/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Auburn, Florida and Georgia
137. 4-star RB Trey Sermon,
Bleacher Report Score: 88/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Oklahoma
136. 4-star ATH OrTre Smith,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Clemson, North Carolina and South Carolina
135. 4-star LB Hamsah Nasirildeen,
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Florida and Florida State
134. 4-star WR Hezekiah Jones,
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Auburn, Notre Dame and Texas A&M
133. 4-star LB Jaden Hunter,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Georgia
132. 4-star CB Marcus Williamson,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Ohio State
131. 4-star RB Zaquandre White,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Florida State
130. 4-star CB Ambry Thomas,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Michigan, Michigan State and Arizona
129. 4-star OT Micah Clark,
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Rutgers
128. 4-star LB Willie Gay,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Ole Miss
127. 4-star WR Amari Rodgers,
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Clemson
126. 4-star RB Adarius Lemons,
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to North Carolina
125. 4-star OT Tony Gray,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Florida, Georgia and Kentucky
124. 4-star WR Tarik Black,
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Notre Dame and Stanford
123. 4-star S Daniel Wright,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Florida State
122. 4-star LB Levi Draper,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Oklahoma
121. 4-star LB Bruce Jordan-Swilling,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Arkansas and LSU
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120. 4-star WR Mark Webb,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Georgia and Penn State
119. 4-star WR Osiris St. Brown,
Bleacher Report Score: 87/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Cal, Notre Dame and Stanford
118. 4-star S Xavier McKinney,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Clemson and Georgia
117. 4-star OG Jonah Melton,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to North Carolina
116. 4-star DT Marlon Tuipulotu,
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Washington
115. 4-star OC Cesar Ruiz,
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Florida State and Michigan
114. 4-star CB Amir Riep,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Michigan State, Notre Dame and Ohio State
113. 4-star LB Jordan Anthony,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Maryland, Michigan and Penn State
112. 4-star DT Ja'len Parks,
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Florida State
111. 4-star LB David Adams,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Notre Dame
110. 4-star QB Lowell Narcisse,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to LSU
109. 4-star OG Netori Johnson,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Georgia
108. 4-star RB Toneil Carter,
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Georgia
107. 4-star CB William Poole III,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Georgia
106. 4-star LB Christopher Allen, Southern University Lab School (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Arkansas and LSU
105. 4-star CB Chevin Calloway,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Iowa
104. 4-star CB Deon Jones,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Maryland
103. 4-star RB Ty Chandler,
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Auburn, Ole Miss and Tennessee
102. 4-star S Brendon White,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Ohio State
101. 4-star DE D.J. Johnson,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Miami and USC
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100. 4-star OT D'Antne Demery,
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Georgia
99. 4-star DE Luiji Vilain,
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Michigan
98. 4-star OT Chuck Filiaga,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Oklahoma and USC
97. 4-star DE LaBryan Ray,
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Ole Miss and Tennessee
96. 4-star DE Malik Herring,
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Clemson and Georgia
95. 4-star OT Navaughn Donaldson,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Miami
94. 4-star DE Hunter Echols,
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to UCLA
93. 4-star DE Zachary Carter,
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Florida
92. 4-star DT Aubrey Solomon,
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Michigan
91. 4-star S Grant Delpit,
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to LSU
90. 4-star RB Cordarrian Richardson,
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Clemson
89. 4-star DT Greg Rogers,
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Michigan, Oklahoma and USC
88. 4-star CB AJ Terrell,
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Clemson, Florida and Georgia
87. 4-star LB Markail Benton,
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Alabama
86. 4-star DE K'Lavon Chaisson,
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Houston, LSU and Oklahoma
85. 4-star CB Deommodore Lenoir, Bishop Mora Salesian HS (Los Angeles)
Bleacher Report Score: 89/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Oregon
84. 4-star QB Shawn Robinson, DeSoto HS (DeSoto, Texas)
Bleacher Report Score: 87/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to TCU
83. 4-star LB VanDarius Cowan, Palm Beach Gardens HS (Palm Beach Gardens, Florida)
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Alabama
82. 4-star S Paris Ford, Steel Valley HS (Pittsburgh)
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Pittsburgh
81. 4-star OT Alijah Vera-Tucker, Bishop O'Dowd HS (Oakland, California)
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include USC and Washington
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80. 4-star LB Justin Foster, Crest HS (Shelby, North Carolina)
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Clemson, Notre Dame and Tennessee
79. 4-star OT Austin Troxell, Madison Academy (Madison, Alabama)
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Auburn
78. 4-star ATH Greg Johnson, Hawkins HS (Los Angeles)
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Arizona
77. 4-star QB Kellen Mond, IMG Academy (Bradenton, Florida)
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Texas A&M
76. 4-star WR Nico Collins, Clay-Chalkville HS (Pinson, Alabama)
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Georgia and Michigan
75. 4-star WR D.D. Bowie, Morton HS (Morton, Mississippi)
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Ole Miss
74. 4-star OG Tyrese Robinson, McKinney Boyd HS (McKinney, Texas)
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Oklahoma
73. 4-star LB Nate McBride, Vidalia Comprehensive HS (Vidalia, Georgia)
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Auburn and Georgia
72. 4-star TE Brock Wright, Cy-Fair HS (Cypress, Texas)
Bleacher Report Score: 88/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Notre Dame
71. 4-star LB Anthony Hines, Plano East HS (Plano, Texas)
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Oklahoma, Ohio State and Texas
70. 4-star S Todd Harris, Plaquemine HS (Plaquemine, Louisiana)
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Arkansas, LSU and Mississippi State
69. 4-star OG Robert Hainsey, IMG Academy (Bradenton, Florida)
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Notre Dame
68. 4-star S Cyrus Fagan, Mainland HS (Daytona Beach, Florida)
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Florida State
67. 4-star WR Jhamon Ausbon, IMG Academy (Bradenton, Florida)
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to LSU
66. 4-star OT Jake Moretti, Pomona HS (Arvada, Colorado)
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Ohio State
65. 4-star DT Haskell Garrett, Bishop Gorman HS (Las Vegas)
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Ohio State
64. 4-star WR Devonta Smith, Amite HS (Amite, Louisiana)
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, LSU and Miami
63. 4-star DE Lagaryonn Carson, Liberty-Eylau HS (Texarkana, Texas)
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Texas
62. 4-star WR Jeff Thomas, East St. Louis HS (East Saint Louis, Illinois)
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama and Missouri
61. 4-star QB Tua Tagovailoa, St. Louis HS (Honolulu)
Bleacher Report Score: 97/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Alabama
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60. 4-star WR D.J. Matthews, Trinity Christian Academy (Jacksonville, Florida)
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Florida State
59. 4-star S Maleik Gray, La Vergne HS (La Vergne, Tennessee)
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Tennessee
58. 4-star LB Drew Singleton, Paramus Catholic HS (Paramus, New Jersey)
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Clemson, Michigan and Rutgers
57. 4-star S Devon Hunter, Indian River HS (Chesapeake, Virginia)
Bleacher Report Score: 91/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Clemson, Florida, North Carolina and Virginia Tech
56. 4-star APB Anthony McFarland Jr., DeMatha Catholic HS (Hyattsville, Maryland)
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Maryland and Miami
55. 4-star CB Lamont Wade, Clairton HS (Clairton, Pennsylvania)
Bleacher Report Score: 90/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Ohio State and Penn State
54. 4-star QB Davis Mills, Greater Atlanta Christian School (Norcross, Georgia)
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Stanford
53. 4-star CB Jamyest Williams, Grayson HS (Loganville, Georgia)
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Clemson, Georgia, Ohio State, South Carolina and Tennessee
52. 4-star OT Trey Smith, University School of Jackson (Jackson, Tennessee)
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Clemson, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Ole Miss and Tennessee
51. 4-star DT Jay Tufele, Bingham HS (South Jordan, Utah)
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Michigan, Oregon, UCLA, USC and Utah
50. 4-star OT Andrew Thomas, Pace Academy (Atlanta, Georgia)
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Georgia
49. 4-star APB J.K. Dobbins, La Grange HS (La Grange, Texas)
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Ohio State
48. 4-star DE Jarez Parks, Sebastian River HS (Sebastian, Florida)
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Clemson, Florida, Florida State and Miami
47. 4-star WR Jerry Jeudy, Deerfield Beach HS (Deerfield Beach, Florida)
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Florida State, Miami and Tennessee
46. 4-star OG Jack Anderson, Frisco HS (Frisco, Texas)
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Texas Tech
45. 4-star S Isaiah Pryor, IMG Academy (Bradenton, Florida)
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Ohio State
44. 4-star QB Jake Fromm, Houston County HS (Warner Robins, Georgia)
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Georgia
43. 4-star CB Thomas Graham, Rancho Cucamonga HS (Rancho Cucamonga, California)
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Arizona, Notre Dame, Oregon and UCLA
42. 4-star WR James Robinson, Lakeland HS (Lakeland, Florida)
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Clemson, Florida and Ohio State
41. 4-star OT Austin Deculus, Cy-Fair HS (Cypress, Texas)
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to LSU
40. 4-star OT Jedrick Wills, Lafayette HS (Lexington, Kentucky)
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Notre Dame, Kentucky and Tennessee
39. 4-star APB Khalan Laborn, Bishop Sullivan Catholic HS (Virginia Beach, Virginia)
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Florida State
38. 4-star OT Walker Little, Episcopal HS (Bellaire, Texas)
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Ole Miss, Stanford and Texas
37. 4-star OG Tedarrell Slaton, American Heritage School (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Duke, Michigan and Miami
36. 4-star QB Dylan McCaffrey, Valor Christian (Littleton, Colorado)
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Michigan
35. 4-star CB Deangelo Gibbs, Grayson HS (Loganville, Georgia)
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Georgia and Tennessee
34. 4-star QB Tate Martell, Bishop Gorman HS (Las Vegas)
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Ohio State
33. 4-star TE Colby Parkinson, Oaks Christian School (Westlake Village, California)
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Stanford
32. 4-star DE Chase Young, DeMatha Catholic HS (Hyattsville, Maryland)
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Maryland, Ohio State and USC
31. 5-Star APB D'Andre Swift
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Height/Weight: 5'9 ½", 214 lbs
High School: St. Joseph's (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Composite Ranking: No. 1 all-purpose back; No. 31 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Clemson, Georgia and Penn State
Penn State emerged among early pursuers for Philadelphia phenom D'Andre Swift, but the Nittany Lions welcomed plenty of company over the course of this recruitment. He's visited Georgia multiple times since the new Bulldogs staff arrived and has enjoyed consistent communication with Clemson.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Swift looks like a much different running back than the one we encountered at the start of his sophomore season. Now weighing well over 200 pounds, he's added nearly 10 pounds of muscle since last summer without sacrificing his trademark breakaway speed (19/20).
An excellent receiver (15/15), Swift can extend offensive drives with tremendous burst off short-yardage throws and is a threat to take one to the house in the event of a defensive lapse. His vision and anticipation rank among the best of this running back class, and those traits could suit him well in a collegiate kick return role.
30. 5-Star DE Robert Beal
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Height/Weight: 6'3 ½", 230 lbs
High School: IMG Academy (Bradenton, Florida)
Composite Ranking: No. 2 weak-side defensive end; No. 31 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Georgia
The Bulldogs bagged Peach State native Robert Beal earlier this month, completing a pursuit that dates back to the program's previous coaching regime. He previously pledged to Notre Dame during his junior season but he backed off that verbal commitment in February.
Bleacher Report Analysis
An aggressive edge-rusher who could line up at outside linebacker or end in college, Beal brings an exciting element to the defensive front. Faster than some receivers on this list, the physically imposing playmaker can chase down ball-carriers from anywhere on the field (19/20 explosive strength) and should be able to apply increased pressure on the quarterback (14/15 pass rush) in a star-studded IMG Academy attack.
Beal, an aggressor who approaches snaps with excellent anticipation, maintains discipline along the edge dependent on down-and-distance situations. He provides Georgia's defensive staff with a variety of options and should quickly push himself into the thought process of passers across SEC competition.
29. 5-Star DE Joshua Kaindoh
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Height/Weight: 6'6", 256 lbs
High School: IMG Academy (Bradenton, Florida)
Composite Ranking: No. 2 strong-side defensive end; No. 29 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Maryland
First-year Terrapins head coach D.J. Durkin scored a monumental recruiting victory in April when Baltimore native Joshua Kaindoh pledged to the program. Still, Maryland has endured difficulties maintaining key local commitments, so expect programs such as Notre Dame and Penn State to apply pressure moving forward.
Bleacher Report Analysis
While scouting IMG's star-filled roster in 2015, it was difficult to keep eyes off Kaindoh. For one, his massive frame simply doesn't look like it belongs on a high school field, and he attacks opposing backfields with surprising fluidity.
This coordination shows through as he fires off the line with explosiveness (19/20) and deals well with lateral movement. An immense wingspan paired with precise handwork (14/15) can often overwhelm offensive linemen and create space for Kaindoh to operate.
His size allows him to clog entire rushing lanes with ease, and improved pass-rush technique could place him in the discussion as America's premier defensive end prospect.
28. 5-Star WR Tyjon Lindsey
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Height/Weight: 5'8 ½", 180 lbs
High School: Centennial HS (Corona, California)
Composite Ranking: No. 5 receiver; No. 28 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Nebraska, Ohio State and USC
Tyjon Lindsey has a longstanding personal bond with Buckeyes quarterback commit Tate Martell, who has repeatedly expressed confidence the duo will unite in college. A brief SEC foray took him to Auburn and Alabama in mid-July, while USC is a mainstay in this process and Nebraska has gained plenty of momentum in recent months.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Diminutive but deadly in an aerial attack, Lindsey will exploit any weaknesses he uncovers within an opposing defense. The former Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas) star is among high school football's most impressive route-runners (20/20), matching extremely quick feet with a seasoned understanding of how to settle into downfield seams.
He is an absolute technician at the snap (15/15 agility), gaining necessary separation that helps him overcome a typical size disadvantage, and completes plays with one of this class' most reliable sets of hands (25/25). Lindsey averaged 25.3 yards per catch during the past two seasons at Bishop Gorman, per MaxPreps, pulling in 29 touchdown receptions.
27. 5-Star ATH JaCoby Stevens
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Height/Weight: 6’2”, 200 lbs
High School: Oakland HS (Murfreesboro, Tennessee)
Composite Ranking: No. 1 athlete; No. 27 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Clemson, Florida State, Georgia, Auburn, LSU and Tennessee
At one point early in his recruitment, 5-star athlete JaCoby Stevens was committed to SEC power LSU. However, he decided to reopen his recruitment and still has the Tigers as one of seven schools still in the running to land him.
Stevens, who will likely play safety at the next level, is currently viewed as a Georgia lean, according to his 247Sports crystal ball.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Stevens has the skills to become a big-time pass target in college, but safety is the spot that ultimately maximizes his strongest traits best. A balanced comfort level in run support and pass coverage (47/50) added up to create a monster defensive campaign last season.
He compiled 84 tackles—8.5 for loss—and six interceptions as a junior, according to Tom Kreager of the Daily News Journal. Stevens' presence near scrimmage or deep downfield provides a compelling dynamic to any defensive strategy, while his offensive prowess (25.2 yards per catch with 11 touchdown receptions) also warrants a long look.
26. 5-Star S Richard LeCounte III
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Height/Weight: 5’10 ½”, 174 lbs
High School: Liberty County HS (Riceboro, Georgia)
Composite Ranking: No. 2 safety; No. 26 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Georgia
New Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart hit an absolute home run with his first 2017 commitment in Athens, landing in-state stud Richard LeCounte III within two weeks of his arrival. Before pulling the trigger on a pledge to Georgia, this Peach State playmaker became familiar with Smart on Alabama's staff and also considered scholarship offers from Florida State, Ohio State, Clemson and Miami.
Bleacher Report Analysis
LeCounte is exactly the kind of athlete coaches want patrolling "center field." He operates like a shutdown cornerback in pass coverage (24/25) and instantly shifts into a hard-charging cruise missile upon identifying run efforts toward his direction (23/25).
A quick-trigger athlete and decisive defender, LeCounte made multiple acrobatic interceptions at The Opening, where he solidified a rise into 5-star territory. His dominant 2015 season featured 100 tackles—12 for loss—10 pass breakups, four forced fumbles, two interceptions and 15 total touchdowns, according to MaxPreps.
25. 5-Star DT Tyler Shelvin
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Height/Weight: 6'2 ½", 376 lbs
High School: Notre Dame HS (Lafayette, Louisiana)
Composite Ranking: No. 2 defensive tackle; No. 25 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to LSU
LSU landed a true 1-technique lineman in Tyler Shelvin, and since March 2015, he has been a solid commit. Shelvin also has schools like Alabama and Texas A&M keeping an eye on him. LSU is hoping to hold on to his commitment, as he is a first-class run-stopper in the trenches.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Shelvin has plug-and-play potential in short-yardage rush defense situations as a college freshman. Stout and explosive (23/25) at the same time, he's a natural run-stuffer who wraps up and finishes tackles through the whistle (15/15).
A powerful lower body generates surprising burst that throttles interior linemen into their own backfield, and he uses fine footwork to disengage and hunt down ball-carriers. As he develops into a more dominant physical specimen, Shelvin projects as a nightmare of a matchup for undersized centers and guards.
24. 5-Star OT Austin Jackson
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Height/Weight: 6'5", 260 lbs
High School: North Canyon HS (Phoenix)
Composite Ranking: No. 6 offensive tackle; No. 24 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Arizona State, Oregon, Texas A&M and USC
The No. 1 player in Arizona, Austin Jackson is entertaining schools throughout the Pac-12 and other Power Five conferences. USC, Oregon and in-state school Arizona State are three teams to keep an eye on. Additionally, Texas A&M has successfully recruited elite players from the state of Arizona in recent years.
Bleacher Report Analysis
This burgeoning bookend will continue to blossom physically, and though he'll never be a gargantuan when it comes to weight, Jackson should be able to settle in comfortably near 290 pounds when collegiate training peaks. Already an athletic force (24/25 lateral quickness), additional power would complement his arsenal as a college lineman.
Jackson attacks opponents with excellent pad level, putting him in position to provide consistent protection in pass settings (23/25). Built practically like a basketball power forward, excellent footwork is already apparent, and he could be a few years of development away from attracting swarms of NFL scouts to the university of his choice.
23. 5-Star CB Stanford Samuels
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Height/Weight: 6’2”, 175 lbs
High School: Charles W. Flanagan HS (Hollywood, Florida)
Composite Ranking: No. 3 cornerback; No. 23 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Florida State
Because his father once starred as a cornerback at Florida State, the rest of the country was facing an uphill battle in recruiting Stanford Samuels III.
The younger Samuels flirted with programs such as Alabama, Georgia and Michigan before committing to the Seminoles in June. He's since become one of the more vocal recruiters for the 'Noles and is actively trying to lure other talented standouts to join him in Tallahassee, as detailed by Josh Newberg of Noles247.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Don't expect Samuels to spend much time in his dad's shadow at Florida State, where he should fight for an immediate role among a star-studded defensive secondary. Sensational skills were most recently on display at The Opening, where Samuels consistently put clamps on his side of the field (38/40 pass coverage) and produced one of the event's top plays with a one-handed end-zone interception.
While several other top-rated cornerbacks in this class measure in under 6'0", Samuels may arrive in Tallahassee pushing 6'3". This length limits available windows for quarterbacks to exploit, while top-notch ball skills (19/20) make passing toward his terrain a risky proposition.
22. 5-Star RB Stephen Carr
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Height/Weight: 6'0", 202 lbs
High School: Summit HS (Fontana, California)
Composite Ranking: No. 3 running back; No. 22 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to USC
Stephen Carr remains a paramount member of the Trojans' class despite a change at head coach since his initial commitment. The local playmaker pledged to former USC leader Steve Sarkisian as a sophomore, maintaining that pact even as interest mounted from Miami, Oklahoma, LSU and Alabama this spring.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Compact and agile (15/15), Carr is difficult to bring down in the open field, and gang-tackling is routinely required. He isn't a major burner but will beat down defensive efforts with a relentless attack-mode approach anchored by powerful legs (18/20).
Carr, who can also contribute with consistency as a receiver out of the backfield, breaks tackles in bunches but does a great job avoiding contact altogether by relying on excellent vision (19/20). His ability to impact an offense as an all-purpose weapon should expedite the quest for collegiate reps.
21. 5-Star OT Isaiah Wilson
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Height/Weight: 6'6 ½", 354 lbs
High School: Poly Prep (Brooklyn, New York)
Composite Ranking: No. 5 offensive tackle; No. 21 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Georgia, LSU and Michigan
An athlete like Isaiah Wilson can be very valuable for any college program. Size-wise, he'd make a great guard, but he has the quickness off the ball to be an elite tackle. Michigan is a team to watch for Wilson, as are Georgia, Alabama, Penn State, LSU and Rutgers.
Bleacher Report Analysis
This mammoth Brooklyn blocker is a true behemoth in the deep 2017 offensive line class. His powerful punch (14/15) enables him to knock opponents off balance during downfield run-blocking forays or while falling back in pass protection (24/25).
He essentially presents a brick wall for defenders to work past and doesn't make the process easy when playing with a mean streak. Wilson, who seemingly remains wide open to several collegiate options, could line up at guard, tackle or both during the remainder of his career.
20. 5-Star WR Tee Higgins
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Height/Weight: 6'4 ½", 188 lbs
High School: Oak Ridge HS (Oak Ridge, Tennessee)
Composite Ranking: No. 4 receiver; No. 20 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Clemson
Tee Higgins announced intentions to sign with the Tigers on July 4, celebrating the holiday in style. Clemson continues to attract top-tier receiver talent, preventing his return to a Volunteers class that once had his commitment.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Higgins has rare acceleration and agility (27/30) for an athlete of his physical stature, surging downfield with long strides and smooth coordination. He's more than a one-trick receiver who uses length to claim jump balls, capable of contributing across the middle in traffic or along the perimeter in tight coverage.
There's little a defensive back can do to contend with Higgins' combination of basketball athleticism and 5-star hands (25/25), especially since most surrender at least a few inches in single coverage. His expansive catch radius and downfield alertness helped him produce 16 touchdown receptions as a junior.
19. 5-Star DE A.J. Epenesa
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Height/Weight: 6'5", 230 lbs
High School: Edwardsville HS (Edwardsville, Illinois)
Composite Ranking: No. 1 strong-side defensive end; No. 19 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Iowa
The Hawkeyes built early momentum this recruiting cycle with a January commitment from A.J. Epenesa. An Iowa legacy, he chose to follow his father's footsteps to Iowa City over opportunities at Alabama, Michigan, Notre Dame, Ohio State and several other marquee college football programs.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Epenesa probably flies under the radar more than he should due to a "low-profile" pledge and his absence from The Opening. Make no mistake, the 5-star hype is validated in the way he competes at Edwardsville.
A stout athletic lineman with the motor coaches covet, Epenesa is especially adept against rushing efforts (24/25). He disrupts the perimeter by setting his edge and plays aggressively without overpursuing beyond the point of attack.
Epenesa secured 11 tackles for loss and six sacks last season despite scarce offensive plays targeting his side of the field. His lateral movement is special and sets the stage for explosive moves (14/15) into backfields.
18. 5-Star QB Hunter Johnson
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Height/Weight: 6'3 ½", 201 lbs
High School: Brownsburg HS (Brownsburg, Indiana)
247Sports Ranking: No. 1 pro-style quarterback; No. 18 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Clemson
Tennessee fans enjoyed a few months of excitement after Hunter Johnson pledged to the Volunteers last August. However, the outlook altered completely in December when the Hoosier State native flipped his commitment to ACC champion Clemson, who added another passer in 4-star Chase Brice shortly afterward.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Johnson, an all-around gifted athlete whose skills are routinely slept on due to the "pro-style" label, throws the prettiest ball in this class. His combination of accuracy and power (43/45) is a direct result of firm mechanics and an authoritative approach in the pocket (10/10).
He didn't dominate during Elite 11 action, but very few quarterbacks in the competition served up a legitimate wire-to-wire performance. Johnson, who briefly excused himself from event finals in Los Angeles to return home for a state title track and field meet, hasn't established much separation atop the quarterback board but belongs in contention for No. 1 status.
Selected by Elite 11 counselors as "most likely to succeed in any offensive system," he provides Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney with a mighty compelling option in the post-Deshaun Watson era. Johnson totaled 2,545 yards and 31 scores through the air last fall.
17. 5-Star WR Trevon Grimes
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Height/Weight: 6'3", 202 lbs
High School: St. Thomas Aquinas HS (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
Composite Ranking: No. 3 receiver; No. 17 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 94/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Florida, Florida State, Miami and Ohio State
Indiana native Trevon Grimes has never shied away from identifying Ohio State as a significant front-runner, and most analysts expect him to join the Buckeyes class before his senior season. The Sunshine State's "Big Three" would each love to land this pledge—especially a group of Gators pledges that includes St. Thomas Aquinas quarterback Jake Allen.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Grimes gives defenses fits with a unique combination of quickness—he clocked a 4.47-second 40-yard dash at The Opening—and length. Grimes can extend beyond the reach of average defensive backs to corral a well-placed pass and possesses the strong hands (24/25) to do it.
His on-field approach features plenty of emotion, and if he can harness those feelings for positive motivation, that attitude could take him to new heights as an alpha dog. Grimes aims to build off a junior campaign that included an average of 18.4 yards per reception and seven touchdown catches.
16. 5-Star CB Shaun Wade
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Height/Weight: 6’1”, 177 lbs
High School: Trinity Christian Academy (Jacksonville, Florida)
Composite Ranking: No. 2 cornerback; No. 16 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Ohio State
Even though he's been committed to Ohio State for more than a year, a handful of schools are lurking in hopes of getting 5-star corner Shaun Wade to flip.
Among the schools pushing the Buckeyes for the 6'1", 177-pounder are Alabama, Florida and Notre Dame. However, Buckeyes head coach Urban Meyer and his staff will continue to stay on him in hopes that he eventually lands in Columbus.
Bleacher Report Analysis
This long, rangy cornerback maximizes his size in pass coverage (38/40), blanketing receivers downfield with a desirable wingspan and above-average speed (18/20). Wade has ball-hawk potential when his awareness shines through downfield, and he's developed a keen sense for baiting quarterbacks.
An acrobatic defender when airborne, he's athletic enough to snag highlight-reel interceptions throughout his college career. Though we love what he brings to the table at cornerback, a successful career at safety could also be in the cards.
15. 5-Star OT Calvin Ashley
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Height/Weight: 6'6", 310 lbs
High School: First Academy (Orlando, Florida)
Composite Ranking: No. 4 offensive tackle; No. 15 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Auburn
Auburn landed a keystone commit in Calvin Ashley in May 2015. Calvin Ashley was believed by many to be a primary candidate for both Florida State and Florida, but the Tigers were able to score a player who is the top-ranked pledge of their 2017 class.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Ashley already attacks opponents with a formidable frame, but it's feasible for him to add 15 pounds of mass without negatively affecting his approach. Additional strength would further augment dominant run-blocking efforts (10/10) and put him in position to dismantle SEC defensive linemen as a young player.
His length is particularly troubling for opponents, as Ashley is able to extend into an offensive lineman's chest plate and gain control of a matchup without lunging forward. Lateral movement (24/25) is also a strong suit for the Sunshine State product, as he uses this established trait to hit desired angles and seal off rushing lanes.
14. 5-Star OG Wyatt Davis
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Height/Weight: 6'5", 310 lbs
High School: St. John Bosco HS (Bellflower, California)
Composite Ranking: No. 1 offensive guard; No. 14 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Ohio State
Ohio State has been exceptional in landing the elite offensive linemen of the 2017 class. When the Buckeyes picked up Wyatt Davis in June, it gave them a versatile player who can see time either at guard or tackle. Davis chose Ohio State over offers from Alabama, UCLA, USC and several other schools.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Davis is among the most scheme-diverse offensive linemen in this class. Plenty of programs pursued him as a tackle, but an interior role may be his high-ceiling spot in the years ahead.
He bullies opponents in one-on-one confrontations, wearing them down with brute force (14/15) and sure hands (24/25) during the course of four quarters. His feet also shine (23/25 lateral quickness), which could be partially attributed to his role on St. John Bosco's basketball team.
13. 5-Star WR Joseph Lewis
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Height/Weight: 6'1 ½", 207 pounds
High School: Hawkins HS (Los Angeles, California)
Composite Ranking: No. 2 receiver; No. 13 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Arizona, Nebraska, Oklahoma and USC
USC is in strong shape to reel in another elite local talent after signing arguably the country's deepest receiver class last cycle. Official visits to Oklahoma, Nebraska and Arizona will challenge the Trojans' stronghold here, and whichever program ultimately signs Joseph Lewis should gain traction with Hawkins High School teammate and top-ranked 2018 receiver Jalen Hall.
Bleacher Report Analysis
A model of consistency throughout his high school career, Lewis collected at least 775 receiving yards during each of the past three seasons, per MaxPreps. Sure-handed (25/25) and sharp in route-running technique (19/20), this Southern California star can make the clutch catches in traffic.
When quarterbacks locate Lewis in stride, his speed and agility (28/30) combine to wreak havoc downfield. Lewis is physical when defenders attempt to challenge him at the line, and consistent footwork allows him to gain separation (19/20 release) in search of real estate.
12. 5-Star OT Alex Leatherwood
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Height/Weight: 6'6", 327 lbs
High School: Booker T. Washington HS (Pensacola, Florida)
Composite Ranking: No. 3 offensive tackle; No. 12 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 95/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Alabama
When Alex Leatherwood is on the field, he is mean, surly and all about business. He's exactly the type of offensive lineman Alabama looks for. Leatherwood committed to the Crimson Tide in June 2015 and is very solid with his pledge.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Leatherwood is that special kind of lineman every quarterback cherishes in an offensive attack. This massive specimen takes his role as protector seriously and competes with an angry resolve.
Powerful (14/15) in the trenches, Leatherwood overwhelms opponents in a run-blocking setting (10/10), which bodes well for the bevy of elite talents in Alabama's offensive backfield. In addition to strength, he moves well side-to-side (23/25) and delivers a technically advanced punch that can contain pass-rushers off the edge.
11. 5-Star CB Darnay Holmes
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Height/Weight: 5’10”, 190 lbs
High School: Calabasas HS (Calabasas, California)
Composite Ranking: No. 1 cornerback; No. 11 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 92/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Michigan, Nebraska, Ohio State, Stanford and UCLA
At 5'10", 190 pounds with sub-4.4 speed in the 40-yard dash, it's easy to see why schools from coast to coast are coveting 5-star corner Darnay Holmes. Holmes, who could also play receiver at the next level, entered The Opening as the nation's top-rated corner and validated his hype by making first team all-defense at the event.
Nebraska, Stanford and UCLA are among the early favorites for the No. 3 player from the state of California.
Bleacher Report Analysis
If there's a legitimate candidate to contribute on both sides of the ball in college among athletes listed here, it very well may be Holmes. He caught 144 passes for 2,236 yards and 25 scores during the past two seasons, per MaxPreps, yet sits atop a talented collection of cornerbacks.
A well-balanced, quick-twitch athlete, Holmes is equipped to cover the run (18/20) and pass (37/40) with authority. An explosive finisher at the point of contention, he is capable of plucking or dislodging passes whenever quarterbacks test his territory.
Holmes, who made The Opening all-tournament team as an "athlete," has the makings of one of the sport's most scintillating all-around talents.
10. 5-Star LB Baron Browning
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Height/Weight: 6’3”, 230 lbs
High School: Kennedale HS (Kennedale, Texas)
Composite Ranking: No. 2 outside linebacker, No. 9 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Ohio State, TCU, Texas and UCLA
At one point early in his recruiting process, 5-star linebacker Baron Browning was committed to Baylor. However, he reopened his recruitment nearly seven months after initially committing to the Bears.
Alabama and Ohio State are among the out-of-state powers trying to lure him away from in-state power Texas.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Few linebackers appear package-ready for the physical rigors of college like Browning, who clocked a 4.56-second 40-yard dash and 4.18 agility shuttle at The Opening. Capable of manning multiple linebacker roles, this Texas standout flashes the strength (24/25) to quickly shed lead blockers en route to the ball and finishes with violent collisions (24/25 tackling).
Agile enough to stick with running backs and tight ends in pass coverage (13/15), Browning picked off a pair of passes last season and held his own against a barrage of downfield targets at The Opening. His 2015 campaign also featured 74 tackles and four forced fumbles.
9. 5-Star RB Cam Akers
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Height/Weight: 5'11", 213 lbs
High School: Clinton HS (Clinton, Mississippi)
Composite Ranking: No. 2 running back; No. 9 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Florida State, Georgia, LSU, Ole Miss and Ohio State
The Crimson Tide initially secured Cam Akers' commitment last August, pairing him with No. 1 overall running back prospect Najee Harris. However, this pact fell apart when he backed off the verbal pledge in March and followed with visits across the Southeast and north to Ohio State.
This process has a wide-open feel to it, but the Buckeyes may be in excellent position to pry away a top talent from SEC territory.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Built like a tank, Akers amazed during combine testing at The Opening. Weighing in among the heaviest running backs in attendance, he led all positional peers with a 4.41-second 40-yard dash and nearly captured Nike Football Testing Championship MVP accolades.
Though Akers lines up at quarterback for Clinton High School, it's easy to see how his skills transfer to full-time rushing duties. His blend of speed (20/20) and power (20/20) goes unmatched in this class, resulting in 1,418 yards (8.4 per carry) and 16 touchdowns on the ground last fall.
He also flashed strong hands (14/15) at The Opening, providing an indication he could be ready for an every-down role early in college. If Akers strictly played running back these past few seasons, you wonder whether he would actually sit ahead of Harris at this stage of the cycle.
8. 5-Star OT Josh Myers
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Height/Weight: 6'6", 306 lbs
High School: Miamisburg HS (Miamisburg, Ohio)
Composite Ranking: No. 2 offensive tackle; No. 8 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 97/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to Ohio State
Talk about a smart recruiting move for head coach Urban Meyer: Josh Myers committed to Ohio State back in January 2015. He has 18 reported offers and has kept his verbal solid. He also has offers from Michigan, Alabama, Notre Dame, Penn State, Florida and others.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Once Myers latches on to a defensive lineman with strong hands (25/25), it's essentially game over. He's able to deflect opponents at the point of attack, whether in run-block settings (10/10) or pass protection (24/25).
Aside from applying the paws of a technician, this longtime Buckeye commit counters power rushers with a sturdy lower-body base and swiftly switches momentum downfield. Myers looks comfortable enough to compete at either tackle position in the coming years, depending on what Ohio State needs along the offensive front.
7. 5-Star WR Donovan Peoples-Jones
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Height/Weight: 6'2", 192 pounds
High School: Cass Technical HS (Detroit, Michigan)
Composite Ranking: No. 1 receiver; No. 7 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 97/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Florida, Michigan, Michigan State and Ohio State
Donovan Peoples-Jones has been largely tight-lipped about his recruitment process and preferred to avoid the subject altogether while in attendance at The Opening. Though he holds more than 20 offers, the process is gaining greater focus with Big Ten adversaries Ohio State and Michigan battling for his services, along with SEC favorite Florida.
Bleacher Report Analysis
This recruiting cycle seems somewhat devoid of a slam dunk top overall recruit at receiver, but Peoples-Jones remains the man atop rankings after a junior season that featured 14 touchdown receptions. He missed out on an opportunity to truly proclaim himself as the premier prospect at this position due to a hamstring injury that sidelined him throughout The Opening.
Still, there's plenty of evidence to suggest Peoples-Jones is capable of competing for No. 1 target looks by his sophomore year in college. A wide wingspan and elite leaping ability create an impression he's actually standing in the 6'4" range, augmenting a special blend of speed and agility (29/30).
Peoples-Jones' athleticism was on full display last summer when he became the first underclassman to claim Nike Football Ratings Championship MVP honors, and he's worked to sharpen route-running technique (19/20) while further expanding his physique. His skill set should equate to major gains after the catch, evidenced by an average of 25.9 yards per reception in 2015.
6. 5-Star S Jeffrey Okudah
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Height/Weight: 6’1 ½”, 190 lbs
High School: South Grand Prairie HS (Grand Prairie, Texas)
Composite Ranking: No. 1 safety; No. 6 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Clemson, Florida State, Georgia, Ohio State, Oklahoma and USC
After piling up more than 30 offers, 5-star safety Jeffrey Okudah narrowed his list of favorites to six earlier this month. Oklahoma was the last school to host him on campus, but according to 247Sports' crystal ball, Big Ten power Ohio State is the favorite to land the elite defender from the Lone Star State.
As evidenced by the fact that he finished second in the Nike Football Ratings Championship, Okudah is a freakish athlete who has the chance to make an early impact at whatever school he chooses.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Impressive mental maturity and a well-developed physical frame help place Okudah in the upper echelon of defenders, but it's ultimately versatility that sets him apart. He has the makings of a dominant force at both safety and cornerback, where he took plentiful reps at The Opening.
Aggressive and ambitious as a tackler (28/30), Okudah can become a linchpin in run support (24/25) at the back end of a collegiate defensive attack. He can help shut things down near scrimmage while lined up in the box or roam freely downfield and comfortably take down opponents in space.
His pass coverage (23/25) also shines, as he uses a large frame and solid speed (4.49 40-yard dash at The Opening) to shut down receivers with regularity. If Okudah stays healthy, he's one of the most likely athletes on this list to land in a key role during his first collegiate campaign.
5. 5-Star OT Foster Sarell
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Height/Weight: 6'6 ½", 311 lbs
High School: Graham-Kapowsin HS (Graham, Washington)
Composite Ranking: No. 1 offensive tackle; No. 5 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 97/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Notre Dame, Stanford and Washington
Foster Sarell has only 13 reported offers, but it's no secret that the monster tackle, arguably the most technically sound offensive lineman of the 2017 class, has coaches watching from coast to coast. In-state school Washington will be in a dogfight with Notre Dame, Stanford, Alabama and several others from now until national signing day.
Bleacher Report Analysis
From a technical standpoint, Sarell essentially stands on his own in this 2017 offensive line class. Following a few days at The Opening that featured pure dominance on the part of blockers, staff members selected him as MVP of a star-studded group.
Sarell, who accrued double-digit offers before his sophomore season, already physically resembles a first-round NFL draft talent and should challenge for immediate starting duties next year. A cerebral tackling mind, this Pacific Northwest prospect possesses the hand placement (25/25) and lateral quickness (24/25) to cut off big-time edge-rushers before they can do damage.
4. 5-Star DE Jaelan Phillips
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Height/Weight: 6'5", 235 lbs
High School: Redlands East Valley HS (Redlands, California)
Composite Ranking: No. 1 weak-side defensive end, No. 4 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 96/100
Recruitment Status: Committed to UCLA
Jaelan Phillips joined the Bruins' class in April, pledging to nearby UCLA over universities such as LSU, Georgia, USC, Florida and Arizona State. He remains solidly in place as the crown jewel of head coach Jim Mora's latest talent haul.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Phillips is a dynamic defender still in the early stages of his development, which should serve as a scary thought for opposing offensive linemen and the quarterbacks they're attempting to protect. His explosiveness (19/20) created serious issues for top-tier blockers at The Opening, where his quick first step and rapid acceleration was a major challenge.
He covers the run (24/25) and rushes the passer (14/15) at an elite level and, considering his current size, there's flexibility for a collegiate coaching staff to mold him into multiple roles. Whether Phillips places his hand in the dirt or stands upright off the edge, he'll alter the complexion of a front seven.
His competitive drive and willingness to receive coaching serve as positive factors for further progression. He collected 87 tackles, 13.5 sacks and three interceptions last season.
3. 5-Star DT Marvin Wilson
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Height/Weight: 6'4", 329 lbs
High School: Episcopal HS (Bellaire, Texas)
Composite Ranking: No. 1 defensive tackle; No. 3 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 97/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, Florida State, LSU and Texas
A self-proclaimed "Real-Life Goon," Marvin Wilson has been on the radar of multiple schools for a long time. Many are eyeing Texas and Texas A&M as front-runners in his recruiting process—assuming he stays in the state. LSU, Florida State and Alabama are three out-of-state programs to keep an eye on as Wilson continues to weigh his options.
Bleacher Report Analysis
Strong as a bull (24/25) yet agile for a large athlete, Wilson is unquestionably the No. 1 prospect at a position predominately down this cycle when compared to years past. This Lone Star State standout brings swagger to the trenches and could be heard inciting opponents after nearly every rep during drills at The Opening.
For the most part, he matches bravado with big-time production and appears capable of developing into a long-term anchor up front. Whether he's lined up in a classic 3-technique role or drops down into 1-technique nose guard duties, Wilson's handwork (15/15) and explosiveness set the stage for him to do damage as a pass-rusher (14/15) or run-stuffer (14/15).
He erupted as a menace early, tallying a total of 34 tackles for loss and 19 sacks during dominant freshman and sophomore seasons.
2. 5-Star LB Dylan Moses
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Height/Weight: 6’2”, 220 lbs
High School: IMG Academy (Bradenton, Florida)
Composite Ranking: No. 1 outside linebacker; No. 2 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 93/100
Recruitment Status: Contenders include Alabama, LSU, Ohio State, Texas and UCLA
Dylan Moses, a 5-star linebacker, has been a household name in recruiting circles since he was a freshman in high school. Nearly two years after committing to LSU, Moses backed off that pledge in August 2015.
The Tigers, along with Alabama, remain the two programs in a heated battle to land the nation's top linebacker in the 2017 cycle.
Bleacher Report Analysis
It didn't take long for Moses to validate practically unprecedented hype in high school after he emerged as a force at linebacker and running back at University Lab High School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. While he's seemingly plateaued from a physical measurements standpoint, the young phenom has grown into a seasoned vet who appears prepared for collegiate challenges.
Moses owns multiple triple-digit tackle totals in his high school career, and textbook fundamentals at the point of wrap-up (24/25) make him especially effective against rushing efforts (14/15). He's instinctive and savvy enough to persistently sniff out plays, putting pressure on opposing offensive coordinators to mix things up at a pace that makes their personnel uncomfortable.
We've grown so accustomed to Moses on the recruiting trail that it's easy to take his success for granted or assume he's peaked as a player. That isn't the case, as a blend of elite athleticism and unique football IQ set the stage for further advancement toward continued stardom.
1. 5-Star RB Najee Harris
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Height/Weight: 6'3", 226 lbs
High School: Antioch HS (Antioch, California)
Composite Ranking: No. 1 running back; No. 1 overall
Bleacher Report Score: 97/10
Recruitment Status: Committed to Alabama
Najee Harris joined a long line of high-profile Crimson Tide running back pledges when he accepted an offer from Nick Saban in April 2015. Despite a longstanding commitment, speculation continues to swirl Harris could eventually opt to remain on the West Coast (with USC or UCLA) or bolt for another powerhouse program far from home (Ohio State and Michigan should be monitored).
Bleacher Report Analysis
Arguably the most complete prospect at his position since No. 1 overall 2014 recruit Leonard Fournette, Harris will encounter immense expectations when he arrives on a collegiate campus. He continues to grow more physically imposing and isn't far off from matching the high school measurements of Heisman Trophy-winning Alabama running back Derrick Henry (6'3", 240 lbs).
He won't rely soley on speed to torch defenses, though quickness (17/20) is indeed a strong suit, as he can methodically wear down an opponent with rare power (20/20). Harris gains momentum as a game wears on, and he's the kind of ball-carrier who can close out contests by picking up clock-milking first downs.
His ability to identify holes (20/20) allows him to pick up steam before encountering defenders, plowing through arm tackles with ease. Harris, who possesses better hands (15/15) than several blue-chip receiver recruits, surpassed 200 rushing yards in six matchups last fall, per MaxPreps, and punctuated his dominant campaign with a 390-yard, six-touchdown effort in the playoffs.
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