Likely with early offers

Belle Glade (Fla.) Glades Central junior William Likely has created highlight after highlight during his junior season, on both sides of the ball. According to the 5-foot-8, 170-pound prospect, who intends to play cornerback at the collegiate level, schools around the country have taken notice and verbal offers have been extended.

"I started getting them during the beginning of this football season," Likely said of landing some offers. "Alabama was the first. They told me they can't send me a written offer, so they just told me I will have one when they can."

For the South Florida prospect, that first verbal offer coming from the Crimson Tide was significant, but nothing more than a part of the process.

"It was a great feeling," Likely said. "But all it meant was that I still have to work and get better."

Since landing his first offer, Likely said that Florida, LSU, and Miami have also extended verbal offers.

"It is a great feeling every time I get one," Likely said. "All of those teams I watch on Saturday's."

In addition to his verbal offers, Likely has also heard from Auburn, Florida State, Notre Dame, Tennessee, Wisconsin, and others.

So far this season, Likely has taken a pair of trips, travelling to Florida State and Miami. This coming weekend, he will make his way to Florida, to watch the Gators battle with Alabama. He talked about his two previous trips.

"I went to Florida State when they played Oklahoma," Likely said. "It was a great time. I loved the atmosphere and the crowd. I wanted to see both teams and it was great to see both teams play and compete. I got to talk with the coaches and they were just telling me that they were going to be keeping up with me and they were glad I came."

"I was at Miami when they played K-State," Likely said. "It was great. I got to talk to most, if not all, of the coaches including Coach Al Golden. They were just asking how my season was going and asking how my grades were. They said they were looking forward to seeing me more."

Following his visit to Gainesville, Likely said he would like to travel to Alabama and LSU for a game at each school.

At this stage of his recruitment, the talented defensive back said he is showing everyone equal attention.

"Not right now," Likely said when asked if he had a leader. "I like all of them right now."

Offensively, Likely has 16 receptions for 222 yards and three touchdowns. He has rushed 11 times for 42 yards and two touchdowns. He also returned a kick 99 yards for a touchdown on special teams.