USF Football: 5 freshmen who could have instant impact in 2017

Perhaps Strong’s biggest get of the 2017 class, the rangy defensive back out of Carol City High in Miami wound up choosing the Bulls over Maryland on National Signing Day. A high three-star recruit, Culpepper also had offers from Michigan State, Oregon, and Tennessee, among others.

Culpepper has already made an impact in fall practices, earning reps with the first and second-stringers in a crowded USF secondary. He also certainly won’t be starting for the Bulls’ opener against San Jose State, but given his versatility and ability to play both cornerback and safety, there will be opportunities from him this season.

With returning starter Ronnie Hoggins recovering from injury, there’s an open spot across from senior stud Deatrick Nichols, and still some uncertainly about who’ll take the field in five-defensive-back sets. Culpepper could fit himself in the running for both of those positions by the end of the season.