Sleeper Cali OL racking up offers

It's always exciting to discover a hidden gem half way through the season and that's exactly what Grass Valley (Calif.) Nevada Union offensive lineman Taylor Dever is. The talented tackle prospect has put together a strong senior season which has resulted in a handful of scholarship offers.

Dever, 6-6, 295 pounds has great size and has been dominant for the Miners this season. We first saw the lineman at the NIKE Camp at Stanford back in the Spring and although we felt he performed well in the position drills, Dever said he wasn't too high on his performance.

"I had the flu that day and really didn't do very well," Dever said. "I know I didn't test well and I could have done a lot better. I just didn't have a lot of strength and I was pretty disappointed to be honest."

Dever is definitely getting it done where it counts and that's on the field with the pads on. He's up to four scholarship offers and it looks like a few more could be on the way.

"Nebraska just offered me yesterday, that was the most recent one," Dever said. "The funny thing is, I never heard one word from Nebraska this whole time. They talked to my coach and said they were going to offer and I got the paperwork yesterday.

"I also have offers from San Diego State, Fresno State and UNLV. In addition, I'm hearing from Nevada, Washington State, Washington and Oregon State. Washington was at my game last Friday and I also sent my film out to a bunch of schools including Notre Dame and Cal so hopefully that will result in a few more offers.

"I have a trip set up to Nebraska in November but I'm still working on the date. I'm also going to visit Fresno State in December but I need to finalize that date as well. I really want to take all five of my trips but I'm still trying to stay open and will keep those last three visit dates open.

"I really don't have any leaders right now. I just want to stay open to everyone who is recruiting me and will give everyone a fair shot. The main things I'm looking for in a school are, first and foremost, a school that is strong academically where I can get a great education.

"Obviously, like everyone else who plays football, I would love to play as long as I can and make it all the way to the league (NFL) but I know how tough that is so I want to something to fall back on. I'm also looking for a school with a strong tradition and a winning program.

"Location isn't that important to me. It would be nice to stay close to home but I'll travel anywhere if it's the best option for me. A school's depth chart will play a little bit of a role as well. I don't mind redshirting and actually feel it would probably be a good thing for me to spend a year or two to get bigger, stronger and learn the system. I know there is going to be competition anywhere I go and I plan to work my butt off wherever I go to make sure I get on the field."