Alabama maintains lead for four-star Pope

Mark Pope doesn’t think a commitment at such an early juncture is prudent. And if you listen to the 2018 wide receiver, that’s the only thing keeping him from committing to Alabama.

The Miami Southridge High School standout says the Crimson Tide lead his recruitment by a significant margin. It’s the way things have been for some time. So why not just get a verbal pledge over with now? When approach with that question, Pope shrugs.

“It’s early,” he says. “It’s just … It’s too early. I guess that’s it.”

And so Pope will continue to see what else is out there. He’ll visit Florida, Florida State Mississippi State and others with his high school coach this summer.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Once a member of the 2019 class, Pope is in the process of reclassifying to 2018. Both he and his high school offensive coordinator say he’s on track to do so. His reclassification may be part of what’s holding him back from making a verbal commitment. Unless Pope sees something that changes his mind on a campus visit, Alabama will likely remain his leader this fall.

IN HIS WORDS: “I’d say UF is the only other school really in the running right now. I’d say them, but behind Bama.”

RIVALS REACTION: Alabama has always been the content for Pope. The other schools he mentions, however, seem to rotate. Some days, Pope seems to have interest in Tennessee. Other times, Florida is the backup plan. He’s also mention Miami from time to time. Pope will likely land at Alabama if he remains a priority for the Tide in the year ahead.