I recently opined only two kids could likely fill up the class as I believe that Fox/Calabrese will both stay. I’ll join the rest of the world and say Priest Willis isn’t going to be one of them (I did say he was a long shot at best in his bio). Further, with Tarean Folston wavering on his commitment we could have another spot open. The coaching staff had five big recruits on campus this past weekend.
Let’s take a look at who’s came to South Bend.
Kylie Fitts DE 6’4”, 245 lbs, 4 stars
Former USC commit. Had his scholarship pulled by Kiffin two days before he enrolled. Classy! Fitts looks like a well balanced DE that can stop the run or rush the passer. Would fit nicely at DE.
Eddie Vanderdoes DT 6’4”, 310lbs, 5 stars
Former USC commit. Eddie is a monster at DT and has offers from everywhere. Given our current starter/backup are out the door next year, he would add much needed depth. We still have Sheldon Day avaialble to move up, but in our scheme having a NT that can eat up double teams is essential.
Sebastian LaRue WR 5’11”185 4 stars
Former USC commit. Great speed. Plays bigger than 5’11”. Would be a nice addition to a receiving corps that is still searching for a real go-to guy.
[Correction 1/28 11:38 ET] As mentioned below, LaRue cancelled his visit. In fact, he committed to Texas A&M. Apologies for the oversight.
Durham Smythe TE 6’5” 230 lbs 4 stars
Former Texas commit who committed to the Irish during the weekend. Grew up cheering for the Irish. Even with Heueurman, we’ve seen injuries and TEs going pro early. Always good to have depth at this position, because 2/3 TE sets can create huge mismatches in both the run and pass game.
Deon Hollins Jr. OLB/DE 6’2” 220 lbs 4 stars
Current UCLA commit. Would be nice to flip him. He’s the kind of athlete the staff loves, one with the versatility to play as a LB or line up on the line. Good hands, strong tackler, and great speed for his size.
So at most, should Folston de-commit, we could take three more in this class (which would remove both 5th year options of Fox/Calabrese). I’d say Vanderdoes is the most important piece left. With at four spots open, you have to wonder if the staff was saying “Commit before he does!” and if Smythe’s decision was possibly spurred by a similar though.
Definitely nice to be in this position at this time of year.
Who do you want? Who would you take? Who do you think we’ll get? Discuss!
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Vanderdoes obviously #1 target – but of the others, I’d love to have Fitts. It all starts with the DL, so it’s time to stock the shelf full of studs. Also, I don’t think LaRue made the visit as he committed to Texas A&M late last week.
Larue didn’t visit.
Day is a little light for NT, so Vanderdoes is even more important. Fitts will be a tough get due to distance.
Folston seems to be solid now. Until we hear different, please stop trying to jinx his signing.