Several options for Ricketts

The recruiting process has not played out exactly as Holland, Mich., linebacker Nathan Ricketts expected, but with just over a week until National Signing Day the 6-3, 215-pound prospect has several options left to consider.

Central Michigan, Michigan State and Grand Valley State are the three schools at the forefront of Rickett's mind, and they all offer a different opportunity.

"I went to Central last weekend on an official," Ricketts said. "It went real well and I like it up there. They see me as a MIKE or a WILL. They are pretty thin at linebacker."

While Central Michigan and Grand Valley State have both offered scholarships, Michigan State has offered Ricketts a preferred walk-on opportunity.

"Michigan State, that has always been kind of a dream school," Ricketts said. "I'd be playing for one of the top coaching staffs in the nation. They have been pretty much like family to us with just the way they have handled everything. They have been completely honest throughout this whole process, and that is something that has not happened everywhere."

Ricketts feels the team making the strongest push for his services is Grand Valley State University, located a short drive from his Holland home. Ricketts is giving the Lakers strong consideration because of the depth of their interest and tenacity with which they have recruited him.

One other school that could factor into Ricketts' decision late is Bowling Green, who is still considering the three-star prospect for a scholarship.

"They might have a kid decommit, and if he decommits I would be next in line if they take a linebacker," Ricketts said. "They might take a d-lineman instead, but that's one of those last-minute things."

Ricketts finished his prep career this with 168 tackles, nine sacks and one interception this past fall. He totaled 415 tackles on defense over his three-year career at Holland.