ATLANTA – Brian Hightower remains adamant on staying close to his new home.

Originally from California but playing his high school football at Florida’s IMG Academy, the four-star wide receiver says he intends to remain the Southeast for college. The narrative isn’t new, but the class-of-2018 prospect is as insistent as ever.

“It’s nothing against California,” Hightower said. “It’s just about a competition level. I want to play down here because I feel like it’s a better level of competition.”

Hightower says tour Clemson before visiting USC over his summer break. Hightower has plenty of trips still to take but doesn’t mind ratting off a pair of early frontrunners.

“It’s probably Clemson and Florida tied right now,” Hightower said.

IN HIS WORDS: “I really want an offer from TCU, just because I’ve always liked the program and I like the offense,” Hightower said. “I seen wide receivers do well and come out of there.”

RIVALS REACTION: It’s hard to project Hightower’s recruitment at such an early juncture. That said, Florida led the way for some time and figures to contend for his commitment until the end. USC and Clemson will both likely be players as well.