TE Cruz names leaders

Offers continue to come in for Johnstown (Pa.) Bishop McCort tight end Mike Cruz. The 6-foot-4, 255-pounder has over a half dozen offers. Is anyone leading for his services?

"I'm not sure on my total number of offers, but I do have ones from Clemson, Pittsburgh, Temple, Virginia, Toledo, Akron, Kent and almost all the rest of the MAC.

"I'd say right now Clemson and Pittsburgh are on top. I'm loving Pittsburgh, but I haven't been to South Carolina yet."

What is standing out about the Panthers to Cruz?

"The thing I know about them is that by the time I get there I'd have a good chance of playing early and possibly right away," he said. "They run a pro-style offense with three tight ends and would only have two.

"I also love the city. I'm a city guy and like the environment and program. It's not about how they've done so far. My decision is going to be where I feel the most comfortable and I think Pittsburgh provides a great academic experience. Finally, the coaches are great guy, not just football wise but they are great to talk to. If I have a problem with anything, I know I can call one of them and talk. They are more like friends."

Does anything stand out about Clemson?

"I've just been told it's a great environment and they have a good football program," he said. "I've heard the people there are really friendly and down-to-earth. They know how to be real with you."

Cruz is considering a trip to Clemson sometime this summer.

Meanwhile, a decision could come relatively soon.

"It's a high possibility I'll do it earlier maybe this summer. We'll have to see how the visits go."

In the meantime, Cruz is working hard to get himself in shape for next season.

"I tore my ACL last year in the second round of the district playoffs and it's doing well," he said. "I'm almost three months out of surgery and jogging. I've got about a month or so and should be ready to go for the opening game of the season."