Florida, UNC among latest to offer Maddox

Rivals 100 safety and receiver prospect John Maddox had a solid showing at the Elite College Combine, solid enough to earn three more offers following the event. What did the 6-foot-4, 170-pounder think of the day and his performance as well as the new schools to offer?

"I thought it was a good experience," he said. "I ran a 4.5 in the shuttle when I was wearing sneakers. I was a little disappointed because I kept slipping and stuff, I could have done better.

What did the Philadelphia (Pa.) West Catholic star think of the one-on-ones?

"I think I did pretty well in the little bit I did, I got injured and landed on the ball so I only got a few reps," he said. "I probably would have gotten MVP if I didn't get hurt. I ran pretty clean, precise routes though."

What did Maddox show scouts at the combine?

"I think I showed them that I can play as a wide receiver at the next level," he said. "Just because I'm not that big doesn't mean I can't get off the jam, I have the mental toughness too."

Currently, Maddox has approximately 30 offers. Since the combine, Maddox picked up offers from Florida, Minnesota and North Carolina.

"I really don't know much about those schools," he said. "I haven't visited their campuses, but I know they are all pretty good programs and I like how they throw the ball a lot."

With the evaluation period in full swing, Maddox has received visits from schools including Minnesota, Akron, Penn State, Michigan, Michigan State, Florida, West Virginia, Purdue and Iowa. The prospect hasn't seen much in the way of phone calls yet, but is expecting a lot more towards the end of May.

The teams Maddox has talked about the most include Penn State, Michigan, Southern Cal, Florida, Louisville, Notre Dame, North Carolina and Syracuse, but that could all change in a few months.

This summer Maddox plans to take a Southern tour including stops at Florida, Miami, Florida State and Georgia Tech. He is also planning a Midwestern tour to Michigan, Michigan State, Notre Dame, Iowa and Purdue. Maddox is still considering attending the Penn State summer camp, but money could be an issue.

As for next year, the safety is looking to improve on both sides of the ball.

"I'm just looking to work on the basic stuff," he said. "I want to work on where the ball is thrown, cover as much ground as I can on defense, run precise routes and get my blocking down. I'm just looking to help my team win the championship because we've been there three straight times and haven't won one yet."

With the option to play either safety or wide receiver, does Maddox have a preference?

"It's hard to say right now," he said. "Probably it's whatever gets me on the field."

Maddox has a solid 2.7 GPA and 880 on the SAT.

Last season he caught 24 passes for 504 yards, eight touchdowns and nine interceptions. He went on to be named first team all-Catholic Blue Division and first team all-city.