Change of heart for ATH Alexander

Altoona, Pa. athlete A.J. Alexander took a visit to Florida State in April and fell in love with the campus, coaches and program. After waiting a month without losing that feeling, the 6-foot-0, 180-pounder committed to the 'Noles. However, a couple of months later he's had a change of heart.

"I didn't really want it out there because people are going to think I'm doing it for attention," said Alexander. "But it got out so there's no point hiding it. I de-committed from FSU. Coach Trickett was cool about it, he said they are still going to recruit me.

"I just think I rushed into it a little bit. I really like it down there and it felt right, but it's such a big decision that I need to be sure. I feel I still have some questions and I'd like to take my official visits and see what's out there to compare."

Alexander, who has had a recent growth spurt and had jumped from 5-foot-10, 165 pounds to his present size, wants to see five schools.

"I want to take an official to Florida State, Penn State, Tennessee, West Virginia and Virginia Tech," he said. "FSU and Penn State stand out a bit above the rest but I want to see all five and find out the best place for me."

Alexander, who plays quarterback and safety in high school, is being recruited by all five schools for offense.

"FSU wants me as a running back/slot receiver, Penn State as a slot guy and the other three said I could play a little at both wideout and running back. They all want me for returns. I play quarterback in high school because that's the easiest way my coach sees to get me the ball but my arm isn't so great for quarterback at the next level. West Virginia mentioned some QB but they're the only one."

Alexander never wanted to be a player who de-commits from a school, but it just feels right to step back.

"I know I'm going to catch some criticism for this," he said. "But it's my life and my decision and I really want to make the right one. I can tell you one thing, I'm not going to commit again until I'm 100-percent sure. A lot of people are hearing I de-committed so I could commit right away to Penn State. That's not the case."

The next step for Alexander will be setting up official visits with his five favorites.