DE Blackwood a late bloomer
Brooksville (Fla.) Nature Coast defensive lineman Rohan Blackwood was an under-the-radar athlete this spring before attending the Rivals Camp Series presented by Under Armour outside of Orlando.
Since that time ACC, Big 10, and SEC programs have extended verbal offers. He has double-digit offers and things have been going well for the late bloomer.
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Blackwood worked out at the Al Golden Camp a couple of weeks ago and enjoyed his time in Coral Gables.
"It was pretty good. That was my first time to Miami. I like the way they coached at the camp. I can see myself playing there," chimed Blackwood.
The 6-foot-5, 208-pound defender is going to check out USF this weekend after his team's 7-on-7. He has already been to campus, but he is still looking forward to seeing what they have to offer.
For Blackwood it's hard to compare schools to each other. He has only been to Miami and USF. The Bulls like his game and he likes one of their alumni, Jason Pierre-Paul. The NFL defensive lineman is someone Blackwood likes to watch to improve his game.
Because he has only been to the in-state schools he wants to check out some other places when his schedule permits. He doesn't have any unofficial visits set up for the rest of the summer.
Keep an eye on Wisconsin though even if he doesn't get on campus until the fall. The Badgers are recruiting him hard via Facebook and Twitter.
West Virginia is a school he mentioned when asked about taking an official visit later in the year.
The speedy weakside defensive end said schools like Minnesota and Purdue are looking at him as an outside 'backer and third down rush end.
Does he have a reference where plays along the front seven?
"I prefer defensive end. Some schools want me to add bulk, so I can play on the line. If I have to drop in coverage and man the flat area I will, it doesn't matter to me," noted the three-star prospect.
Blackwood grew up a fan of North Carolina because he liked the Tar Heels hoops program. The hardwood standout doesn't have any plans to play both sports in college.
He doesn't have a time frame for his decision, but depth chart will be a factor in his recruitment.