LB Jefferson sets third trip

The recruiting war for star linebacker Wesley Jefferson rages on and he continues to receive attention from schools all over the country. With plenty of offers in hand, Jefferson has shuffled his favorites around a little this week and has his third official visit set.

"I think I'm probably interested in more schools now than I was a month ago," said the 6-foot-2, 230-pound linebacker from traditional high school powerhouse Brandywine (Md.) Gwynn Park. "Miami, Ohio State, Maryland, Notre Dame, Penn State, Notre Dame, Virginia and Tennessee are my favorites. I like all of them for their football programs and coaches. They would all give me a chance to play for a great program in front of big crowds. It would be nice to be part of a really good defense."

Jefferson has had visits set with Miami (Dec. 13) and Maryland (Dec. 20) and now a third team will get a trip.

"I'm going to Ohio State on Jan. 17," he said. "Notre Dame will also get one for sure and it will probably be either Penn State or Tennessee for my last one. I'm going to take all five, but the fifth is still in the air."

Jefferson ended the season as undoubtedly the state's top middle linebacker and arguably the best in the nation. He finished with more than 150 tackles, more than 10 sacks. Over the past two seasons he has recorded 275 tackles and almost 25 sacks. Does Jefferson have a leader?

"No, not really," he said. "Without taking trips, I have an idea of who I like the best but I need all my visits. There's no point naming a leader because it could all change."

Jefferson is a lock to play middle linebacker in college and he could see playing time at the next level in less than a year.

"Most schools are telling me I could come in and play right away. That makes you get cocky if you don't put it behind you. I can't wait to see more about these schools, but I'm also ready to get this over with. It will probably be a while before I decide."