Mid-Atlantic spotlight: Prospects that are heavy leans
For all sorts of different reasons, some recruitments don’t pack quite as much drama as others. Every year, certain players delay announcing their decisions despite most already having a solid idea of where they’re headed. Today, Rivals.com takes a look at the uncommitted prospects that could have gotten things over with long ago.
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Leaning toward: North Carolina
What’s he waiting for: Adams has been penciled into North Carolina’s 2018 recruiting class for some time. He has Clemson in his top two along with the Tar Heels but was also considering Alabama, Ohio State and LSU. Adams took a visit to Columbus for the Buckeyes' spring game and has been to Clemson a number of times, but Chapel Hill has started to feel like a home to him. Adams’ father, Deke Adams, is the North Carolina defensive line coach and, even before he was hired earlier this year, North Carolina always seemed like a major contender for the four-star receiver.
Leaning toward: Virginia Tech
What’s he waiting for: The Hokies have been in great position with Tisdale and is seemed like he was on the verge of a commitment. That was a little over a month ago. Since then Tisdale has taken some visits but only added an offer from Washington State. Maryland has been making a push to get Tisdale to visit and N.C. State has remained a constant contender. All that Virginia Tech has left to do is close hard on Tisdale.
Leaning toward: Maryland
What’s he waiting for: Jones visited Maryland for its spring game a month ago and most people assumed he would commit to the Terps while on campus. That obviously didn’t happen and much of that credit goes to Virginia Tech. The Terps and Hokies are fighting over plenty of targets and Jones is one of the biggest. Recruiting will likely heat up again for Jones as the upcoming season gets closer, but Maryland will still be a major contender for him.
Leaning toward: Miami
What’s he waiting for: Nobody’s quite sure. Blades originally committed to the Hurricanes’ old staff and backed away from his pledge during the coaching change. These days, some will tell you that the Rivals100 defensive back is silently committed to UM, but there’s no way to confirm such a thing. It seems logical to assume Blades will choose Miami at an all-star game or on Signing Day. He could also make the call on an official visit this fall. Still, Blades has always been the type to want to see what else is out there. He’s soaking up the recruiting process and enjoying his time as a top-flight prospect.
Leaning toward: Florida State
What’s he waiting for: May 26. Gainer recently announced his decision date and has set it in stone. Alabama is in the picture. As is Miami to a degree, but Florida State has been the overwhelming favorite here for quite some time. Gainer is from the Tallahassee area and took a shine to the hometown school early in the process. Gainer could pull a total shocker later this week, but many have wondered why he didn’t commit to the 'Noles long ago.
