Great road trip for Pagan

It’s been a busy spring break for one of America’s most recruited defensive line prospects for the Class of 2011. Asheville, N.C. standout defensive end Jeoffrey Pagan has visited four big time schools over the past two days with one trip remaining. He has seen Clemson, Georgia, Georgia Tech and Alabama with Florida scheduled for the next few days. The first school he visited was Clemson.

“Clemson has been a school at the top of my list since the very beginning,” Pagan said. “I was able to spend time with coach (Dabo) Sweeney, coach (Dan) Brooks & (Chris) Rumph. Crezdon Butler, a former Asheville High player, just finished his career at Clemson. I like the staff and the new facilities. It’s close to home so family and friends could come watch me play easily.”

His second visit this week went to the Georgia Bulldogs. What did he think of UGA this time around?

“This was my second visit to UGA. I like the program, the prestige and history. Mark Richt is a really great guy, down to earth and he truly cares for his players. I learned that there defensive line coach (Rodney Garner) used to coach former Asheville High graduate Leonard Little. Coach (Todd) Grantham sees me as a defensive end in his pro set 3-4 defensive scheme. I'm 6-4 and 270 pounds but still running in the 4.6 range. I like the experience that this staff brings to the table.”

Next up was a short drive from Athens to Atlanta to visit the Yellow Jackets. What stood out about Georgia Tech?

“Georgia Tech is a great school. Coach (Andy) McCullom was recruiting me at N.C. State and has since he made the jump to the Yellow Jackets. He would be my position coach and I have a great relationship with him. Coach (Al) Groh not only brings a new mindset to the defensive side of the ball, he brings knowledge and love of the game. He can make me better. Georgia Tech is a great campus with a lot to offer and Atlanta is a great city.”

Pagan then left the Peach State and headed to Alabama for a Wednesday visit to see the national champions. As you can imagine, he was impressed with Nick Saban’s program in Tuscaloosa.

“Bama was very impressive. There is an intense atmosphere where winning is not just an option, but rather an expectation. I spent time with Coach Saban, (Sal) Sunseri and (Kirby) Smart. There NFL experience is great and I think they can help me get to the next level. The campus, facilities and stadium were much more appealing than I had imagined. I am excited about the Tide.”

Pagan is now headed to Gainesville, where he will spend a few days at the University of Florida and take in their spring game.

“I've developed a great relationship with Coach (Urban) Meyer and the rest of the staff. I like there defensive scheme and I am really excited to get down to Gainesville. Florida has been high on my list since the on-set, so I am very excited.”

So is there any leader at this point for this potential five-star prospect?

“I do not have any leaders at this time. I am planning on putting out a top five to eight list after I get home and can evaluate this trip.

“I'm pretty much done visiting schools for a while. I have to take my SAT in May and stay focused on finishing up my academic year strong and getting ready for next football season.”