Mattes could be tops in N.C.

CONCORD, N.C.- Armed with NFL bloodlines and a good frame, Concord Robinson's R.J. Mattes could be the top offensive line prospect in the state of North Carolina for the Class of 2008 in a class that is sure to produce several Division I-A level prospects at the position.

The 6-foot-7, 260-pound Mattes, who holds early scholarship offers from Virginia, Clemson, North Carolina, North Carolina State, Duke and Wake Forest, is the son of former NFL offensive lineman Ron Mattes.

Ron Mattes played at Virginia, so the Cavaliers are a big factor with R.J., who doesn't have any set favorites at the moment.

"I've been going up to Virginia games with my dad since I was a kid," the younger Mattes said. "Of course I am interested in them, but that doesn't mean I am definitely going to go there.

"I am interested in anybody that is interested in me right now."

Cavaliers assistant Mike Groh is recruiting Mattes.

The Tigers, led by Rivals.com national Top 25 recruiter Billy Napier also have his attention.

"What can you say about a big program like Clemson," he said. "I went down there for one of their bowl practices and saw the stadium and the facilities that they have. They were nice."

Mattes also commented on Wake Forest, North Carolina and N.C. State.

"I went to Wake Forest for their Junior Day last weekend," he said. "I got to see the ACC Championship trophy and that was very cool. N.C. State with their new coach is notorious for producing great offensive linemen, so of course I am interested in them. North Carolina with Butch Davis now also is very attractive."

Brad Lambert is recruiting Mattes for Wake Forest, Jim Bridge for N.C. State and Sam Pittman for UNC.

Notre Dame, Ohio State, South Carolina and others also have expressed interest in Mattes.

"I want to be at place where the coaches are cool with the players," he said. "I also want a place where I can be myself and hang out with the guys. If a program has had a lot of success, but I don't feel comfortable there, I am not going to go there."

Mattes just completed basketball season for Robinson. He says that sport has helped him with regards to improving his physical tools as a football prospect.

"When I was a freshman, I didn't have good feet at all," he said. "But basketball has helped me get better speed and improve my overall ability as an athlete."

Mattes has plans for the offseason.

"I want to add good weight," Mattes said. "I hope to get up to about 285 before next season. I will be playing both ways, so I have to make sure that I am in great shape to do so."