Darnell Jefferies recaps visits to Clemson, Georgia and South Carolina
THE LATEST: Darnell Jefferies is going to take a little break. Last week, and much of the last two months, the 6-foot-4, 271 pound defensive lineman out of Covington (Ga.) Newton has been on the road visiting schools.
Last Wednesday he was at Clemson, then he saw Georgia again Thursday, and after spending a day in the classrooms at high school Friday, he hit the road again to see South South Carolina Saturday.
He feels he is a priority for each of those schools and he enjoyed his time on all three campuses.
IN HIS OWN WORDS...
CLEMSON: "I was basically there for the entire day and I got to see practice, I saw a little scrimmage and I really got to see how their defense plays," said Jefferies. "I got to see new defensive line coach Todd Bates work and he is a cool guy. At Clemson, it is about the coaches and the family-feel there — those are the things I like the most."
GEORGIA: "Right now with Georgia, it is a about the great relationship I have with Kirby Smart (head coach)," said Jefferies. "He has been recruiting me since I was in 9th grade back when he was at Alabama, so we know each other well. I also like Tray Scott, the new defensive line coach. He is a well-rounded guy with good energy who likes to teach his guys visually. This visit was mainly about spending time with the coaches."
SOUTH CAROLINA: "I was able to watch practice this visit," said Jefferies. "Last time I saw the facilities and did more of the tour, so this visit was a little different. We were able to talk with some of the football players about their everyday schedules too, so that was nice. I like the academics and the defense at South Carolina."
DECISION TIMELINE: "Over the summer I plan to figure out who my top schools are and I would like to commit before my senior season starts in August," said Jefferies. "I am working to get my list down to eight schools."
RIVALS REACTION: There is a lot of chatter out there behind the scenes about Jefferies having a favorite or two right now. He said that was not accurate. He went as far to say that he would not even be able to sign if signing day was this week. There are still plenty of schools he plans to visit this spring, and maybe into the summer. Florida, Florida State, Kentucky, Louisville, LSU and Ole Miss are on his list right now. He has yet to visit any of those school. Relationships with coaches and how he feels on campus will play a big role in his decision, so each visit is important for him. Jefferies is also on schedule to be an early enrollee, so he wants to know his future home sooner than later.
