Lay shuts the recruiting process down, commits to Clemson
The last time Jaelyn Lay visited Clemson, was January 20, he picked up an offer from the Tigers on that visit. Since then, he has add over 15 offers from schools all over the country.
He returned March and this time, the 6-foot-5, 220 pound tight end took the coaches up on their offer and committed to the Tigers.
"I have committed to Clemson and it feels great. I am all in," said Lay.
Lay looked over a lot of his offers, he did his share of research and he took some visits over the past few weeks, but his mind was made up a couple of weeks ago.
"A lot has been going on around me and I have been praying to God on how I can narrow down my list down and make my decision. Clemson just stood out.
"I knew around February 21, on my birthday, that I was going to commit to Clemson."
Clemson beat out a slew of schools, including Georgia, Georgia Tech, Miami and Ole Miss. Lay feels Clemson is the perfect fit for him on and off the field.
"I picked Clemson because, besides football they're an excellent school academically and to see how dedicated the team was last year to their academics was amazing. Just to watch them play and see how most of the team graduated that December was eye-opener because that is uncommon.
"Relating to football, Clemson is my ideal offensive style. I believe I can contribute to their system in any way for us to be successful and having the opportunity to have a brotherhood around those group of guys and the guys of the 2018 class is great."
When Dabo Swinney and his staff offered Lay in January, they compared him to former Tiger tight end Jordan Leggett. Lay sees that comparison and he is excited about his opportunity in the Clemson offense.
The early Signing Period is still close to 10 months out, but Lay's mind appears to be made up. He is not thinking about any other schools.
"Due to respect of my family and to Clemson University, I won't take any more because that's just a bad look to any young man," said Lay. "No matter the rankings, stars or any of those accolades you have, you still must carry yourself respectfully as an individual and give respect to those who you may count on in the future.
"It sets an example to upcoming young athletes that look up to you that's at your school, recreational centers or even family because it's just shows loyalty, character, and trust too."
Lay is Clemson's third commitment for the 2019 class and all are from the state of Georgia. The other two are safety Joseph Charletson and wide receiver Brannon Spector.