Pompey making progress

Bradenton (Fla.) Manatee defensive tackle Quinton Pompey is one of those kids who has remained off the radar, but it isn't because of the talent he has on the field. What has prevented the 6-foot-3, 275-pounder from breaking through on the national scene is his academics. He has given that issue major attention as a senior according to Manatee assistant coach Chris Conboy.

"He has made huge progress," Conboy said. "He has worked very hard to bring everything up and work towards qualifying. He knows there is more to be done but he has done an outstanding job improving his chances."

While a lot of schools take a wait-and-see approach with Quinton, some have welcomed him on campus. Others have welcomed him as well as his brother, Manatee defensive end Chris Pompey who checks in at 6-foot-3, 200-pounds.

"Quinton visited Marshall, then they both visited Georgia Southern, and they are both scheduled to visit Eastern Kentucky this weekend," Conboy said. "There are a couple other schools involved with Quinton who would like him to come up to visit them."

Schools such as Louisville, Miami, Missouri, Penn State, Tennessee, and others have expressed an interest in Pompey during his senior season. Recently, Miami, South Florida, and Temple have expressed interest.

With academic work still left to be done, Conboy said the duo may put their decision off for a while.

"I think he is going to wait until after Signing Day," Conboy said. "I think Chris and Quinton both will wait until after Signing Day."

As a senior, Quinton Pompey finished with 14 sacks despite missing the end of the season with a knee injury. Chris Pompey racked up 12 sacks and 59 solo tackles on the season.