Is Chris Ellis next to commit

One of Hampton's top players, defensive back Phillip Brown, committed to Virginia this past week. Is Hampton (Va.) Bethel defensive end Chris Ellis the next to announce his destination?

"No, I'm not close to a decision," said the 6-foot-5, 230-pounder, who is ranked as the No. 2 player in the state of Virginia right behind Brown. "Phillip's commitment to UVA is an eye-opener and a point in Virginia's favor for sure, but I'm going to commit wherever I feel comfortable and make a good choice for myself."

Ellis took an official visit to Maryland last weekend and has UVA this weekend. He follows that with a mid-week trip to Tennessee and then trips to Virginia Tech (Jan. 24) and NC State (Jan. 31).

"I still plan on taking all five of my visits," he said. "It's funny because at least two or three coaches have told me that I shouldn't commit this weekend to Virginia. They seemed very worried about it, almost like UVA is feared or something. I'm sure they'll do a great job of recruiting me this weekend, but I'm not going to make a decision."

Is there a leader?

"No, not at all," he said. "It's the same as it's been the last few months. I don't really know who leads because I've only been on one official visit."

Ellis is also aware how his decision could impact the balance of power in the state of Virginia.

"It's funny because now that Phillip is going to UVA and everyone expects Xavier (Adibi) and Vince (Hall) to commit to Tech eventually, it's kind of on me a bit as the other guy in the top four," he laughed." If I commit to UVA, it's a wash but if I commit to Tech then the balance goes that way. It's a lot of pressure."