Two left for McKenzie
Kahlil McKenzie is one of the top defensive tackles in the 2015 class by Rivals.com. In just a few days, he will make his commitment and the high four-star is down to two schools.
Arizona and Tennessee are the finalists for the 6-foot-4, 309-pound prospect who recently transferred to Concord (Calif.) Clayton Valley Charter from powerhouse Concord De La Salle, where he helped lead that team to the state championship last season.
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McKenzie, who had an outstanding performance in the title game loss to Bellflower (Calif.) St. John Bosco and has also looked dominant this off-season, said there is a lot to like about each of the two schools remaining on his list.
"I like the coaches and the family atmosphere at Arizona and I love the campus," McKenzie said.
"Tennessee is like a second home. The coaches are great, the players I've gotten to know are great and I love Knoxville."
Rated as the fourth-best defensive tackle in the class by Rivals.com, McKenzie absolutely loved his unofficial visit to Arizona this off-season and immediately said the Wildcats would remain a serious contender throughout his recruitment.
McKenzie has backed up those statements by having Arizona among his final two when he decides at The Opening on July 10.
But many believe Tennessee is absolutely the team to beat for many reasons. The four-star has raved about his trips there and he has plenty of family connections to the school and the area.
His father, Reggie, the general manager of the Oakland Raiders, played his high school ball in Knoxville and then for the Volunteers. His uncle, Raleigh, also played at Tennessee. McKenzie's godfather is Reggie White.
Originally from Green Bay, Wisc., McKenzie does not have lengthy ties to the Pac-12 so location is not a major factor in his decision.
He's absolutely one of the top prospects in the country so if he heads to Tennessee or picks Arizona, one school is getting a player who could make an impact for years to come.
Rivals.com rates him as the No. 31 overall prospect in the class and after such a strong off-season he has a chance to move up even higher.