Gaither adds new visit date

Greenbelt (Md.) Eleanor Roosevelt defensive tackle Jared Gaither has emerged as a top football prospect over the last few months after initially wanting to play hoops. The 6-foot-9, 300-pounder has scheduled an additional official visit with a school that wants him to play both.

"Jared is going to Clemson on Jan. 23 now," said Roosevelt head coach Rick Houchens. "They want him to play both sports if he wants to, same with Georgia. He's taken only one official visit so far and that was to Maryland on Dec. 12. He has Georgia on Jan. 9 and Florida on Jan. 16."

So how did the monster d-tackle like the Terps?

"He loved it," said Houchens. "He had a great time and seemed like he wanted to commit, but one thing I want all my kids to do is to take their time and compare things. If, after his Georgia visit, he still feels that Maryland is the place for him and he's positive, then we'll talk about it again. I want them to have all the opportunities they can get."

Gaither had originally committed to play basketball at South Carolina prior to his senior season on the football field. Now he's convinced that football is his future.

"But I want him to consider both, because after basketball season he could change again," said Houchens. "Four months ago football wasn't even a consideration. He has more opportunities now and I want him to weigh them carefully."

Gaither is ranked as the No. 31 defensive tackle in the country by Rivals.com.