As National Signing Day 2016 nears, we predict where the top 30 uncommitted recruits will call home come February 3.
It is that time of year again: Signing Day. It is where high school football players announce where they will be playing for the next four years. Even though it may seem simplistic, to the programs who have spent hours upon hours doing their homework in regards to these recruits, it is not.
Although it is a happy day for many, it is also one filled with tension, stemming from fans, coaches and players alike as they make the decision on where to play their next four years of college football.
The 2016 class, to put it mildly, is filled with talent. From quarterbacks to cornerbacks, there is no position that does not feature at the very least, one player who can make an impact the moment he steps on the field.
The class is headlined by an explosive playmaker in Rashan Gary, and as you go down the list of prospects, the amount of depth and talent that comes from the 2016 troop is impressive With team after team courting every one of these players, Signing Day for most of these players is the day where all that work comes to an end.
We take a look at where the top 30 uncommitted recruits will sign, and in turn, begin the process of leaving their mark on the program.
Next: Begin Slideshow
30. Willie Allen
- Location/High School: New Orleans LA./John Catholic
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 92
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 11 OT
With 28 offers on the table, Willie Allen certainly has a lot of offers to choose from come Signing Day. However, there are two teams who seem to be frontrunners for the talented offensive tackle. LSU and Alabama are those two, and LSU is the favorite to land the hometown kid. Currently, LSU’s 2016 troop ranks No. 1 in the entire country per the 247Sports Composite Rankings, and adding more talent to the bunch would only help.
He plays with an edge and does a nice job of keeping himself square with his man. Staying in front, he has excellent hand position and has it such that his man is off-balance right from the snap.
The Tigers currently boast two other offensive linemen in the class as four-star commit Donavaughn Campbell (Ponchatoula, LA) and three-star commit Jakori Savage (Bay Minette, AL. Baldwin Co School) fit that distinction. Standing at 6-7 Allen would bring size to the offensive line and in turn, give the offense a chance to really open up the field and make plays.
The 2015 senior class saw the graduation of one offensive lineman in 6-foot-6 Vadal Alexander so he would fit in well with the Tigers as he could help fill the gaping hole left there. Combine that with the fact that he is an in-state recruit, and I see Allen calling Death Valley home next season.
Prediction: LSU
Update 1/21: Allen committed to LSU.
Next: No. 29 Lamar Jackson
29. Lamar Jackson
- Location/High School: Elk Grove CA./Franklin
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 88
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 5 Safety
Jackson is another player that, with over 20 offers at his disposal is a highly valued prospect. Nebraska and USC seem to be the two teams who are out in front for the bidding war for Jackson, and now, the Trojans are the favorite, keeping yet another talented prospect in-state.
However, this creates an interesting dynamic. Four-star safety C.J. Pollard (Gardena, CA. Junipero Serra) has already enrolled in the school, so it will be interesting to see how they fit both of those players in the mix. The 2016 Trojan recruiting class currently ranks No. 16 in the country and No. 2 in the Pac-12 per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
He has tremendous tackling ability and does a nice job of wrapping up the ball carrier. A get like this for the Trojans would be huge. He has an athletic style of play, and is not afraid to come up and make a play if needed. He could easily fill the role of a free safety as he can pursue the football very well. His speed is also an asset and would be a tremendous help to a defense that has struggled in recent years.
The Trojans need him to shore up their defense, and to provide some much-needed stability. I think he stays home and helps bring USC back to prominence.
Prediction: USC
Next: No. 28 Brian Burns
28. Brian Burns
- Location/High School: Fort Lauderdale FL./American Heritage
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 84
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 6 WDE
A menace of the defensive side of the ball. Brian Burns heads into Signing Day with two programs in particular vouching for his services, Florida and Georgia both want Burns and it seems that Florida may have the recruiting edge as Signing Day draws nearer.
Listed as a weak-side defensive end per 247Sports, Burns would join a crowded but talented group in that regard. Antonious Clayton (Vienna GA. Dooly County), Jordan Smith (Lithonia GA. Lithonia), and Jachai Polite (Daytona Beach FL. Mainland) are all defensive ends, while Polite is the only other weak-side defensive end to this point. The Gator class is ranked No. 7 nationally and No. 4 in the SEC per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
Burns could be an excellent run-stopper for the Gators. They only gave up 120.6 yards per game last year, part of a defense that ranked No. 13 overall in the 2015 season. He does a great job of filling in any gaps that may be open and he uses his quickness to get into the backfield in a hurry to stop a play from developing. He could be a tremendous asset against a team like the Crimson Tide, who tend to run the ball often.
I see him staying in-state and joining a Gator program that is on the upswing once again.
Prediction: Florida
Next: No. 27 Jeffrey McCulloch
27. Jeffrey McCulloch
- Location/High School: Houston TX/Aldine Davis
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 93
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 7 OLB
It looks to be a Lone Star State battle for McCulloch as Texas and Texas A&M are both on his radar. The Longhorns may have an edge here as all signs point to him wearing Orange and White in ’16.
The 2016 recruiting class for Texas still has a long way to go to be among the elite. Ranked at No. 35 in the country, the class ranks No. 4 in the Big 12 per the 247Sports Composite Rankings and only has one linebacker in three-star inside linebacker Demarco Boyd. Boyd, who measures in at 5-foot-11 is not exactly the biggest, so the 6-foot-2 McCulloch would add size and much-needed depth to the position.
He has the speed of a linebacker and is particularly effective when edge rushing. He gives his man fits and as long as he can find that edge, he can breeze past him and get a tackle or sack. The loss of senior Shiro Davis means that the Longhorns will have to find someone who can compensate for that with athletic playmaking and McCulloch is that guy.
Texas is another program who has struggled to reclaim past glory and McCulloch is the type of player that can help turn things around in a hurry.
Prediction: Texas
Next: No. 26 Binjimen Victor
26. Binjimen Victor
- Location/High School: Fort Lauderdale FL./Coconut Creek
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 75
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 8 WR
The wide receiver from the Sunshine State heads into Signing Day with two teams on his radar, with one of them the in-state Florida Gators and the other being the Ohio State Buckeyes. Although pen is not put to Paper until February 3, all signs point to him joining Urban Meyer in Columbus.
What Victor would bring to the Buckeyes is tremendous athleticism. He has a freakish leaping ability and he is the type of wideout that can “go up and get it.” He would give the quarterback a security blanket and confidence as anytime you have a receiver who can do that, it really opens up the passing game.
I see him leaving the Sunshine State and being a big weapon for the Buckeyes.
Prediction: Ohio State
Update: Victor committed to Ohio State.
Next: No. 25 Terrell Hall
25. Terrell Hall
- Location/High School: Washington D.C./St. John’s College
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 77
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 5 WDE
After decommitting from Ohio State in August, four-star defensive end Terrell Hall is back on the market. Alabama is the favorite to land Hall, as they look to restock following their national championship victory on January 11.
The Crimson Tide 2016 class looks very strong, especially defensively. Four-star tackles Kendell Jones (Killeen, TX. Shoemaker), Raekwon Davis (Meridian. MS. Meridian), and Quinnen Williams (Birmingham AL. Wenonah School) are the types of players that can anchor your defensive line. Currently, the Tide boast the No. 8 class in the country, which is good enough for No. 5 in the talented SEC per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
One asset that Hall has is quickness. As soon as he comes off the line, he can shed blocks with ease. He is particularly effective at stopping the run, something that should help continue a trend for the Crimson Tide as they ranked No. 3 in the country in total defense and were No. 1 in the country in run defense with only 74 rushing yards allowed per contest.
Fresh off a national championship I think the Tide will land Hall. He complements the other pieces in the class very well. He would be a great piece for Alabama as they continue the reloading process.
Prediction: Alabama
Next: No. 24 Nigel Warrior
24. Nigel Warrior
- Location/High School: Suwanee GA./Peachtree Ridge
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 69
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 4 Safety
With 29 offers in total, Nigel Warrior has plenty to choose from. However, it seems he has narrowed his list down to two teams, and while for many of these prospects the choice is clear, it seems to be anything but for Warrior as Tennessee is the favorite, but only by a slight margin as Alabama is in a close second. With that in mind, I would not be surprised to see him put on the hat of the Alabama Crimson Tide come Signing Day.
Alabama currently has one safety in what is a loaded 2016 class. Three-star commit Joshua Perry (Amite. Amite LA) fills that distinction. The class ranks No. 8 nationally and No. 5 in the SEC per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
What he brings to the table is his height and athleticism. He is not the fastest safety, but when he does run, he takes long strides covering ground pretty quickly. He could bring to the Tide a versatile safety, and an addition run-stopper by staying in the backfield and not allowing a running back to get to the second level.
I see him going to Tuscaloosa and playing a key role in Nick Saban’s defense in the future.
Prediction: Alabama
Next: No. 23 David Long
23. David Long
- Location/High School: Los Angeles CA./Loyola
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 66
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 8 CB
Michigan and Washington are the two frontrunners for four-star cornerback prospect David Long. Notching 23 offers in total, many teams are vying for his services. Michigan may have the edge here and I would not be shocked to see him out on the hat of the Maize and Blue come the first week of February.
The Wolverines currently have a cornerback in the 2016 class in three-star commit Antwaine Richardson ( Delray Beach FL. Atlantic) and a commit from long would add depth to the class. With 23 total commitments, the class ranks No. 2 in the country and No. 1 in the Big Ten per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
What Long would bring to Michigan would be excellent coverage skills. He has a tremendous ability to stay in front of his man, keep his body square and instead of focusing on his man, he reads where the ball is going and makes a play on it. He would fit right in with a group of Michigan cornerbacks who are tasked with covering the athletic receivers in the Big 10.
I see him ending up in Ann Arbor, He would fit right in with the Wolverine defense, and that combined with Jim Harbaugh’s ability to recruit will see him end up at The Big House come September.
Prediction: Michigan
Next: No. 22 E.J. Price
22. E.J. Price
- Location/High School: Lawrenceville GA./Archer
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 63
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 8 OT
Georgia appears to be the clear favorite for Price, a four-star recruit who is regarded as one of the elite offensive linemen in the country. Notching 34 offers in total, man teams have clamored for his services. However, it seems that Kirby Smart and Co. have the upper hand.
The Bulldogs 2016 recruiting class is shaping up nicely with 16 total commitments. The ‘Dawgs have talented offensive tackle Ben Cleveland (Toccoa Ga. Stephens County), a four-star commitment and three-star commitment Chris Barnes (Leesburg GA. Lee County) already in the fold. The class ranks No. 5 in the country and No. 2 in the SEC per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
What Price would bring to Georgia is a physical blocking style. Particularly in the running game, Price is able to get the upper hand on his man (literally) by using his hands to attack and enforce his size. That will also help in the passing game as he will offer tremendous protection, giving the quarterback more time to throw as well as the option of scrambling out of the pocket if need be.
I see him staying in-state and becoming a staple recruiting victory for Kirby Smart
Prediction: Georgia
Next: No. 21 A.J. Brown
21. A.J. Brown
- Location/High School: Starkville MS./Starkville
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 59
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 6 WR
A.J. Brown is one of the many dynamic wideouts in this class. With 11 offers in total, teams have taken notice of his talent. As Signing Day approaches, it seems that the Bulldogs and the Alabama Crimson Tide are the two favorites to land the wideout. He has taken several visits to both schools, most recently November 14 to Mississippi and January 15 to Alabama. With that in mind, I see Brown joining an upstart Bulldog program and donning the Mississippi State hat come Signing Day.
Brown would be the first wideout in a Bulldog class that ranks No. 53 in the nation and No. 12 in the SEC per the 247Sports Composite Rankings. The class features two tight ends in three-star commit Dontea Jones (Matthews, NC. Jireh Prep) and Jordan Thomas (Decatur Prep. East Central C.C.)
Brown would fit into the Mississippi offense nicely as he possesses tremendous speed, particularly after the catch. As soon as he gets the ball, he turns quickly up the field and makes the most out of each possession. This would give an explosive Bulldog offense an extra weapon and make the job for SEC cornerbacks a lot more difficult.
Prediction: Mississippi State
Next: No. 20 Nigel Knott
20. Nigel Knott
- Location/High School: Madison MS./Germantown
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 54
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 7 CB
Athlete would be the proper word to describe four-star prospect Nigel Knott. Currently, the Mississippi native has several teams interested in him, and the 28 offers he has amassed are a testament to that. However, two teams, in particular, are the frontrunners for Knott. Alabama and Oregon fit that description and the favorite in this two-horse race are the Crimson Tide.
In their ’16 class, Alabama currently has no cornerbacks in the class. This would be a crucial get for the program as the Tide lose four defensive backs to graduation. With a revamped secondary on tap for the ’16 campaign, the talented Knott would serve as a spark plug to a new era of Alabama football as the defending champions look to go back-to-back.
Knott is an excellent coverage corner and is able to read the ball very well. He would bring a ball hawk mentality to the Tide secondary and in essence, shut down one side of the field. He also does a nice job of coming up and making the tackle when he needs to, but his calling card is without a doubt his coverage abilities.
Knott is a great fit for the Alabama secondary, especially with the numerous departure of seniors on the defensive side of the ball, and while the Oregon Ducks are indeed in play, I find it very difficult to imagine Nick Saban losing out on a recruit.
Prediction: Alabama
Next: No. 19 Shyheim Carter
19. Shyheim Carter
- Location/High School: Kentwood, LA./Kentwood
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 54
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 6 CB
A one-time Alabama commit, Carter still has the Crimson Tide on his radar. Even with that in mind, so too on his radar are the Georgia Bulldogs. It would be hard for me to imagine him going back to the Tide, so I would expect him to choose a new-look Georgia Bulldogs program as head coach Kirby Smart looks to continue his solid work on the recruiting trail.
The Bulldogs do need help at the cornerback position as the ’16 class only boasts one cornerback commit in three-star Tyrique McGhee (Fort Valley Ga. Peach County.) Carter has tremendous closing speed and reaction time and has the ability to provide coverage even when it may look like he is out of a play. He would bring to Georgia a shutdown corner that can deliver the element of surprise: give the receiver some room, and then take it away just as quickly.
In the high-scoring SEC, a cornerback who can not only cover but one who can read and react is crucial. Even though the Tide are still hanging around in the recruiting process, I see Carter joining Georgia as they look to rise to the top of the SEC and not only win but play in the postseason.
Prediction: Georgia
Next: No. 18 Devin Asiasi
18. Devin Asiasi
- Location/High School: Concord, CA./De La Salle
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 50
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 2 Athlete
The four-star athlete does not have a definite position come Signing Day, but something that has a little more clarity to it is the team he will choose when February 3 comes around. In-state USC is the favorite to land Asiasi while Alabama appears to be in a distant second place. Although the Crimson Tide are always dangerous on the recruiting trail, they are on the outside looking in, and all signs point to him joining Clay Helton and the Trojans.
His high school film features him at the tight end position, however, the 2016 class for the Trojans already features a playmaker at the position in four-star tight end Cary Angeline (Exton Pa. Downington East.) Ranking No, 16 nationally, the class ranks No. 2 in the Pac-12 per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
At 6-foot-3 270 pounds, Asiasi would provide power at the tight end position, similar to New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski in that respect. His blocking ability would provide USC protection in the running and passing game and give USC quarterbacks more time to throw and provide a security blanket as a receiver.
Yes, he is an athlete, but the Trojans could use him in many ways. For that reason, I think he commits to USC where he could play a major part in USC’s rise to prominence.
Prediction: USC
Next: No. 17 Landon Dickerson
17. Landon Dickerson
- Location/High School: Concord, CA./South Caldwell
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 47
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 2 OT
A native from the football-rich state of California, Dickerson, a four-star prospect is looking to play college football back east as the two teams most prominently on his radar are the Florida State Seminoles and the Virginia Tech Hokies. The consensus overwhelmingly sees Dickerson a Seminole which is why there is a good chance that he will choose to call Doak Campbell home on Saturdays and join Florida State.
Jimbo Fisher and his staff have any talented linemen in their 2016 class. Four-star center Baveon Johnson (Lakeland Fl. Lake Gibson), four-star offensive tackle Josh Ball (Fredricksburg, Va. Stafford Senior), and three-star offensive tackle Mike Arnold (New Berlin NY . Milford Academy) represent the offensive linemen in the class. Dickerson would add size to an offensive line group that, to put it plainly is very tall. Johnson is 6-foot-3, Ball is 6-foot-7, and Arnold is 6-foot 3.
This does not include the troop the 6-foot-4 290-pound Andrew Boselli who is already enrolled in the school. The class is ranked No. 4 nationally and is tops in the ACC per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
Dickerson’s quick hands and aggressive run-blocking would give Florida State a boost in the running game. The Seminoles ranked No. 68 in the country with 168.2 rushing yards per game last season and he would be a tremendous asset to clear running lanes and, of course, provide pass protection. As Florida State rebuilds their offensive line, Dickerson would be a nice building block.
Prediction: Florida State
Next: No. 16 Deontay Anderson
16. Deontay Anderson
- Location/High School: Marvel TX./Marvel
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 41
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 3 Safety
Anderson heads into Signing Day as one of the most coveted safeties in the country. The favorites for his services seem to be Ole Miss, who are looking to reload after what was a special season last year. Texas A&M is also in the mix, but on the outside looking in, and for that reason Ole Miss is the favorite to land Anderson come February 3.
The focus for the Rebels ’16 class appears to be at the safety position, so if Anderson were to commit here, he would join a crowded field. Three-star commits Greg Elsworth (Grand Prairie TX. South Grand Prairie) and Myles Hartsfield ( Great Barrington MA. East Coast Prep) are also set to play the position, so if nothing else, there should be some healthy competition heading into camp for a class that ranks No. 7 nationally and No. 4 in the SEC per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
He would bring to the Rebels a hard-hitter to the secondary. He plays like Rodney Harrison in that regard and his physicality combined with his coverage skills would do wonders in the SEC. He knows where the ball is at all times and that combined with his aforementioned tackling make for a deadly combination. He would be a great addition as the Rebels try to prove that last year was not a fluke.
Prediction: Ole Miss
Next: No. 15 Jeffery Simmons
15. Jeffrey Simmons
- Location/High School: Macon MS./Noxubee County
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 33
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 3 SDE
As the recruiting war heats up, Mississippi appears to be right in the thick of it. Four-star strong-side defensive end Jeffrey Simmons appears to be taking notice of that. Two teams are fighting tooth and nail for Simmons and they are both of the in-state variety. Mississippi State and Ole Miss are both fighting tooth and nail to land the talented Simmons, and where he will land is not so clear. However, the Bulldogs may have the slightest of edges here.
This would be an enormous get for the Bulldogs as this would be the first strong-side defensive end for their ’16 class. They do have three-star weak-side defensive end Marquiss Spencer (Greenwood. Greenwood MS) in the fold, and it is clear that the Bulldogs are focusing on improving their defense within the class. With 13 total commits, the Mississippi State troop ranks No. 53 nationally and No. 12 in the SEC per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
His speed would be a tremendous asset for Mississippi State. He makes getting by the linemen look effortless, using his frame to gain the upper hand and stop the offensive lineman from pushing him back. His ability to get into the backfield fast would give the Bulldogs a dominant presence coming off the edge. The Bulldogs need a playmaker at the position and Simmons would be the perfect catalyst.
Prediction: Mississippi State
Next: No. 14 Nate Craig-Myers
14. Nate Craig-Myers
- Location/High School: Tampa FL/ Tampa Catholic
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 32
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 2 WR
With 48 offers on the table, four-star Craig-Myers is one of the most coveted wideouts in the country. After decommitting from Auburn on May 6, Craig-Myers was thought to be taking his talents in-state. Florida State was originally thought to be the favorite, but now it seems that the Gators have emerged as the best potential suitors to land him. Auburn is still in the mix, however, I see him staying in-state and not going to the Seminoles, but rather the Gators.
The Gators have a loaded 2016 class that is teeming with talent and that includes four-star wide receiver Freddie Swain (Citra FL. North Marion), four-star wideout Joshua Hammond (Hallandale. Hallandale FL), three-star wideout Dre Massey ( Goodman MS. Holmes Community College), and three-star pass-catcher Rick Wells (Jacksonville FL. Raines.) The ’16 Gator class has 26 commits, and currently ranks No. 6 nationally and No. 3 in the SEC per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
He would certainly be a great fit as Craig-Myers is from the area and he may want to stay close to home. He would give the Gators a potential, speedy deep threat to add to their already talented passing game. For that reason, I think he will be a Gator and become one of the premier wideouts in the SEC.
Prediction: Florida
Next: No. 13 Trayvon Mullen
13. Trayvon Mullen
- Location/High School: Coconut Creek, FL/ Pompano Beach
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 31
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 5 CB
LSU is the frontrunner for Mullen, which is quite the achievement when you consider that he had 47 total offers on the table. Also in the mix are Florida State and LSU, and while Florida State may be interested in him as well, they seem to be a distant second. Barring any major change, he should select the LSU cap come Signing Day.
The Tigers have a loaded 2016 class including two talented cornerbacks in five-star commit Saivion Smith (IMG Academy. Bradenton FL) and four-star commit Andraez Williams ( Shreveport. LA. Calvary Baptist Academy), speaking to the level of talent at the position. Mullen’s athleticism would be a tremendous asset to LSU. At 6-foot-1 and with above-average speed, he would match up very well with a slower wideout or tight end. He would give LSU tremendous coverage flexibility and versatility to put them where they see fit.
For years, LSU has failed to win a major postseason game. With the No. 1 class nationally, a commit from Mullen may put LSU over the top.
Prediction: LSU
Next: No 12. Jack Jones
12. Jack Jones
- Location/High School: Long Beach, CA./Long Beach Poly
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 28
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 4 CB
Jones is one of the most prominent corners in the country and as a result, two in-state programs are vying for his services. USC and UCLA are the two programs that have an inside shot as Jones, and all indications have him joining an upstart USC program, whose ’16 class is filled with playmakers on both sides of the football.
A four-star prospect, Jones would be a significant addition to a very talented ’16 class and the first cornerback of the group. He would be the 10th four-star prospect of the class, and give the Trojans another weapon on defense. He has tremendous speed and uses it to close in on his man. He would help out USC immensely, especially in the Pac-12, where running quarterbacks and wide-open offenses are a common thread. A coverage corner like him would eliminate the dual-threat potential.
With the way things have gone for the Trojans on the recruiting trail, I do not see them losing out on Jones. A big in-state pickup like this one would do wonders for their program, and with the talent they have amassed for the entire 2016 class, I see them continuing their upward trajectory.
Prediction: USC
Next: No. 11 Kristian Fulton
11. Kristian Fulton
- Location/High School: Metairie LA / Archbishop Rummel
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 26
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 3 CB
With 26 offers on the table, Fulton, a four-star recruit is one of the most dynamic players in the state of Louisiana. Two teams seem to be the frontrunners for Fulton, bit only one appears to be the overwhelming favorite. LSU has the advantage in that regard, and should be comfortable with where they stand on Fulton come Signing Day.
As noted, the Tigers already have a loaded 2016 recruiting class, especially at the cornerback position. Should Fulton come to LSU, he would join the talented CB troop, but may have to wait his turn. However, there is also the chance that he could have a very good camp and slide up the depth chart. Due to this talent, the Tigers could also put different cornerbacks on the field depending on the package. On paper, they have enough talent to do so without too big of a drop-off in production on the field.
I see Fulton becoming a Tiger. The talent that is already there combined with the fact that he would be joining a No. 1 class should be enough to get him to Baton Rouge.
Prediction: LSU
Next: No. 10 Caleb Kelly
10. Caleb Kelly
- Location/High School: Fresno, CA./Clovis West
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 24
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 3 OLB
Oklahoma is the top choice for five-star outside linebacker Caleb Kelly despite him having 25 offers in total. The Sooners have been on his radar for quite a while and especially in the last couple of months, things have picked up for him in his Oklahoma recruiting process. He took an official visit to the campus on November 21 and received an official visit from a Sooners coach on December 3.
A commitment from Kelly would be a huge one for Oklahoma. Not only would he be the first five-star commitment in the class, but he would also join a talented class that includes four-star commitment Bryce Youngquist ( Rancho Cucamonga CA. Los Osos) and three-star commitment Pernell Jefferson ( New Orleans LA. Warren Easton.) The class currently ranks No. 24 in the country and No. 3 in the Big 12 per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
Kelly is a hard-hitter, and he uses a variety of moves to get by his defender and make the tackle. What he would bring to the Sooners is a multi-dimensional linebacker who can stop both the run and the pass. He has enough talent to be a difference-maker and a game-changer. The Sooners had plenty of those last season, and only need one or two more to contend for postseason play. Oklahoma is on the upswing, and the results will show on Signing Day.
Prediction: Oklahoma
Next: No. 9 Rashard Lawrence
9. Rashard Lawrence
- Location/High School: Monroe, LA./Neville
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 23
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 5 DT
With his announcement coming on Friday, the consensus is that the five-star Lawrence has a clear favorite leading up to his announcement and that he will commit to the Bayou and join Les Miles and the LSU Tigers.
LSU already has power at the defensive tackle position as he and Edwin Alexander represent the defensive tackles in the class. The combination of him and Alexander would be a force to be reckoned with in the Bayou. A commitment from Lawrence would give the program, even more, talent at the position and add depth to what would be an already deep and talented defensive line.
His motor and ability to make impact plays would come in handy in what is expected to be another deep and talented year in the SEC. Should be commit to LSU, he would play a big part in ushering in another new wave of elite talent in Baton Rouge.
I see him staying in-state and going to the Tigers come Friday. It appears that they already have a solid defensive plan in place and Alexander figures to play a huge part in it. After what was a see-saw season that ended with an impressive 56-27 victory over Texas Tech in the Texas Bowl, I see the good mojo continuing in Baton Rouge.
Prediction: LSU
Update 1/22: Lawrence committed to LSU
Next: No. 8 Brandon Jones
8. Brandon Jones
- Location/High School: Nacogdoches, TX./Nacogdoches
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 18
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 1 Safety
Jones is the top safety in Texas as well as in the entire 2016 class, so it should come as no surprise that two teams from the Lone Star State are the frontrunners for him as Signing Day draws nearer. Texas A&M and Texas are the two teams that stand out from the pack of teams wanting a piece of Jones, and to call it a pack is no exaggeration. With 39 offers in total on the table for Jones, both programs must have made a very good impression.
The 2016 class for the Longhorns is in a bit of a rut at the moment. With 13 commits in total, the class ranks No. 35 in the country and No. 4 in the Big 12 per the 247Sports Composite Rankings. The class has yet to acquire a five-star commitment or a safety, so if Jones were to commit here, this would be an enormous get as the Longhorns look to finish the season with a winning record next fall.
He is a hybrid between a safety and a defensive back. He has a tremendous ability to drop back into coverage and read the quarterback’s eyes and make a play. Jones could provide some stability in pass coverage as that was an area Texas struggled in last year. They were tied with Tulane with 2,801 yards gained through the air which amounted to 233.4 yards per game. He would be the type of player Texas would need as they have no choice but to produce a winning record in 2016.
Prediction: Texas
Next: No. 7 Mique Juarez
7. Mique Juarez
- Location/High School: Torrance, CA./North High School
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 17
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 2 OLB
Juarez is not only one of best outside linebackers to come out of the 2016 class, he is also one of the best players in California. For that reason, the UCLA Bruins and the Ole Miss Rebels are two teams to watch out for come Signing Day. Even though Ole Miss is very much in the mix for Juarez, it would be a bit of a surprise if he did not stay in-state and join the Bruins.
Currently, the 2016 UCLA class boasts a plethora of talent as it has five four-star commitments in the class to this point. A pledge from Juarez would make it five. That is good enough for No. 19 in the country and No. 3 in the Pac-12 per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
He possesses speed and is very fleet of foot, helping him shed blocks quickly and get to the ball carrier before the play develops. He would fill the void left by Myles Jack as the junior has decided to enter the NFL Draft. Juarez’ aggressive style of play should help the Bruins as they try to plug that hole.
UCLA has done a nice job on the recruiting trail and I do not expect that to change here. Jim Mora and his staff should be able to land this one.
Prediction: UCLA
Next: No. 6 Demetris Robertson
6. Demetris Robertson
- Location/High School: Savannah, GA./Savannah Christian Prep
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 16
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 1 WR
With 29 teams extending him offers, the bidding war is high for Demetris Robertson. Georgia and Notre Dame are the two frontrunners for his services, and while Notre Dame is still very much in the discussion, all signs point to him favoring the Bulldogs on Signing Day.
The ’16 Georgia troop stands 16 commitments strong and two of them are of the five-star variety. Pro-style quarterback Jacob Eason (Lake Stevens WA. Lake Stevens Senior) and tight end Issac Nauta (IMG Academy. Bradenton, FL) headline a class that is ranked No. 5 nationally and No. 2 in the SEC per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
What Roberston would bring to Georgia is a wideout who has sure hands and impressive leaping ability. He is very good at getting off the line of scrimmage quickly and getting ahead of his man. The combination of him and Eason together is something that should make Georgia fans very excited. For that reason, he would be a tremendous asset for Georgia and has the talent to create a lot of buzz in Athens.
Prediction: Georgia
Next: No. 5 Lyndell Wilson
5. Lyndell Wilson
- Location/High School: Montgomery, AL./Carver
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 14
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 1 OLB
The nation’s top outside linebacker has 19 offers to choose from as Signing Day nears. Right now, it seems that Alabama and Auburn are in the hunt for the five-star prospect, and while nothing is for certain, Alabama is in a good position before the big day on February 3. I see him staying in-state and going to Tuscaloosa to join Nick Saban at Alabama. Wilson’s abilities and the way he plays fits right into the SEC mold: physical, hard-nosed football.
Alabama’s 2016 class ranks No. 9 in the country and No. 5 in the SEC per the 247Sports Composite Rankings. A commitment from Wilson would be the second five-star commit of the class (third if Ben Davis commits.) The lone commit with the five-star label is five-star offensive tackle Jonah Williams ( Folsom. Folsom CA.)
The Tide do have another outside linebacker in the 2016 class as Riley Cole (Oneonta AL. Oneonta) also is in the fold. If nothing else, along with the physical style of play, Wilson would bring depth to the table. The combination of Cole and Wilson could be an intriguing battle to watch heading into spring practices and when camp begins in August.
Auburn is in the hunt, but all signs point to him joining Nick Saban and his staff. In Wilson, the Tide would add another catalyst as they continue to reload,
Prediction: Alabama
Next: No. 4 Ben Davis
4. Ben Davis
- Location/High School: Gordo, AL./Gordo
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 13
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 1 ILB
Ben Davis is yet another great player to come out of the state of Alabama. As Signing Day approaches, he has been another target that Nick Saban and the Alabama Crimson Tide are keeping an eye on. Despite Davis’ 24 offers they are the primary team that is in the running for his services.
A commitment from Davis would be the second five-star commit of the class ( third if Lydell Wilson commits) and pending Wilson, the second linebacker commit overall joining three-star commit Riley Cole.
What would he bring to the Tide? Size and speed are just a few of the attributes he brings to the table. Not only that, he has the potential to serve as a catalyst for the defense. Davis is the type of player that makes his presence known on the field. Measuring in at 6-foot-3, 240 pounds, his size is certainly an asset.
He possesses tremendous reaction time and that helps him get off his blocks quickly to make plays. In what is somewhat of a rarity for a player of his stature, he also brings to the table the speed, which helps him when he begins his pursuit of the ball carrier, particularly if it is a mobile quarterback or a running back who can bounce to the outside quickly.
We saw the Tide have trouble handling Clemson’s Deshaun Watson, and how his running ability left the defense gassed and scrambling formation-wise. A player like Davis would help eliminate that and is a necessity in order for Alabama to have a “complete” defense.
Prediction: Alabama
Next: No. 3 Mecole Hardman Jr.
3. Mecole Hardman Jr.
- Location/High School: Elberton, GA./Elberton County
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 11
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 1 Athlete
Although his position is not set in stone yet that has not stopped teams from offering the talented athlete. 32 offers in total have been extended his way, and through all the fray, two teams have emerged as suitors for Hardman Jr. Georgia and Tennessee are the lucky two, and while the Vols are not out of the race by any stretch of the imagination, things seem to be in great shape for the Bulldogs.
As mentioned, the 2016 Bulldogs contingent has many talented playmakers on both sides of the football. Particularly on offense, they have many weapons to choose from. The great thing about Hardman Jr. is that he is an athlete, so the coaches can put him wherever they see fit.Measuring in at 5-11, 165 lbs., he has the body type to be an effective slot receiver or halfback offensively.
Defensively, he could be used as a cornerback in certain situations, especially if he can go up against a smaller slot receiver as he has the potential to match up well in that area. Despite the uncertainty, he has the talent to see the field. He would be a welcome addition in Athens and a big get for Kirby Smart as he looks to make an impact in his first year.
Prediction: Georgia
Next: No. 2 Derrick Brown
2. Derrick Brown
- Location/High School: Buford GA/Lanier
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 8
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 3 DT
It seems as though The Peach State is full of talent, and five-star prospect Derrick Brown would certainly fit into that category. Tallying 26 offers in total, many programs were able to recognize the talent that he has. Georgia, in particular, is a team that would really value what he brings to the table, and in the run-heavy SEC, he could give them that extra boost that would allow the ‘Dawgs to reach the top. I would not be surprised if he joined Kirby Smart and company on Signing Day.
Brown is a multi-faceted defensive tackle. He has the ability to make solid tackles and his pass-rushing ability is second-to-none. He shows tremendous quickness and explodes off the line of scrimmage as soon as he ball is snapped. He can give them a big body that can stop the rushing attack, and give them athleticism at the tackle position.
Georgia already several commitments from defensive tackles in the form of five-star commit Julian Rochester (Powder Springs Ga. McEachern) and another pledge from three-star defensive tackle Tyler Clark (Americus Sumter County South. Americus, GA), and a commitment from Brown would certainly give Georgia a boost. With his ability to make solid tackles and breeze past lineman, he should be an impact player as soon he steps on the field.
Prediction: Georgia
Next: No. 1 Rashan Gary
1. Rashan Gary
- Location/High School: Paramus N.J./Paramus Catholic
- 247Sports Composite Rank: No. 1
- 247Sports Position Rank: No. 1 DT
There is not much that the nation’s top 2016 prospect Rashan Gary cannot do. Most recently, he was named the MVP in the Under Armour All-American Game on January 2. With 30 offers in total, it is safe to say that he is the most coveted and dynamic prospect in the class. The only question now is, who will win the recruiting war and, in turn, get a player who can make an impact player right away. Michigan is thought to be the favorites heading into Signing Day, a position that Jim Harbaugh must be very pleased with.
This would be an enormous get for a class that is ranked No. 2 nationally and is tops in the Big Ten per the 247Sports Composite Rankings. The Wolverines are already stacked at the defensive tackle position with four-star commit Jordan Elliott (Houston TX. Westside) and Rashad Weaver (Fort Lauderdale FL. Cooper City) and adding Gary would arguably give them the best defensive line in the country.
More saturday blitz: 30 Best College Football Dynasties of All-Time
Explosive off the line, he has tremendous reaching ability and his rip and spin moves to free himself from his man are overpowering. Once he is free, he uses his agility to find the ball carrier and make the tackle. Gary wraps up his man and does so forcefully, not allowing the runner to break the tackle.
Michigan already has one of the best 2016 classes in the country and adding Gary would make them instant championship contenders.
Prediction: Michigan