One wouldn’t think that high school All-Americans need to do much more to help themselves out in regard to recruitment, but it is possible.
For example, defensive end Chris Jones is one of the more recent examples who used his week at the Under Armour All-American game to garner increased interests from some of the top programs in the country.
Coming into that week, he was committed to Mississippi State, but the 6-foot-7 defensive lineman racked one sack, two tackles for loss and two forced fumbles in the UA game. His dominant performance plus impressive practices throughout the week shot him up recruiting rankings and he went as high as No. 2 overall.
The bigger schools came calling, but Jones stayed committed to the Bulldogs.
What recruits could have a similar week at one the All-American games this year?
Brandon Martin, WR
Schools being considered: Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas State, Louisville
Martin may not have as many top-program offers like some of his All-American teammates, but he’s an impressive looking prospect. At 6-foot-4, 200-pounds, Martin presents a lot of initial problems for defensive backs but then he his sub 4.4 40-yard dash time makes things even tougher for those guarding him. Martin’s athleticism will undoubtedly shine through during the Under Armour week. Perhaps, if he makes a few spectacular plays, he’ll garner interest from the bigger schools.
Kyle Phillips, DE
Schools being considered: Tennessee, LSU, Ole Miss
At 6-foot-4, 250-pounds, Phillips is an impressive defensive end prospect. He’s been hotly recruited by the Tennessee Vols for quite some time, but is also being pursued by LSU and Ole Miss. He’s a supreme athlete off the edge of the defensive line and should shine in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. Phillips is currently a four-star prospect and sitting just outside the top 100. A strong performance in San Antonio, Texas, will likely push him crack that next tier of top recruits.
D’Andre Walker, DE
Schools being considered: Tennessee, Auburn, Georgia
Walker projects to be more of a linebacker than a defensive end at his current size. He possesses elite speed and quickness off the edge to rush the passer and is someone that can wreak havoc in opposing backfields. Walker is undersized at just 218 pounds, but the potential is there for the four-star recruit. If he’s able to display that elite speed and first step at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, more schools may be willing to pursue Walker, knowing he may have to wait a few years to build his weight and be effective.
Jordan Scarlett, RB
Schools being considered: Miami (committed), Florida, Wisconsin
Scarlett committed to Miami over the summer, but his commitment may be wavering some as his recruitment enters its final stages. Every year we always see at least one running back in these All-American games have a breakout performance and Scarlett could be that player this year. His 5-foot-11, 210-pound frame is ideal for a great, all-around back and Scarlett may draw interest in more schools following this year’s All-American game, especially considering he’s not a strong Miami commit at this time.
Drew Laing will be providing analysis and insight on Florida, Georgia, Missouri and South Carolina.
