Watkins open after Bama offer

Jaylen Watkins will be one of the most sought after prospects from the state of Florida in the Class of 2010. Watkins, 6-1 and 172 pounds, stars on both sides of the ball for Cape Coral (Fla.) High School at quarterback and defensive back. Schools are starting to take notice, as he has a few scholarship offers at this time from teams like Wake Forest, Alabama, Central Florida, and Duke.

"Wake Forest was the first school to offer me," Watkins said. "I have heard a lot of great things about them and I know if you get a degree from what it's considered a great degree. I have talked with those coaches and I like those coaches a lot.

"I have talked with coach (Nick) Saban and coach (Jim) McElwain. Actually, I have talked with them a lot since they offered. I love coach Saban. He's a Saban is a winner. Alabama likes me as an athlete but I know Saban wants me to play defense.

"I am going up to Central Florida next Saturday for junior day. I like them because it's close to home and I know I will find out more after I visit.

"Duke has offered as well but I have not talked with them in a while. They have great academics."

For a time, the Gators were the team to beat for Watkins. Now, things have changed, especially since the Crimson Tide have offered him.

"I went to Florida's junior day and they have nice facilities. I also talked with coach (Urban) Meyer and (Steve) Adazzio. I would say that Florida was my leader and I have always been a fan. But after Alabama offered it kind of opened up my eyes to what else is out there."

Tennessee, Ole Miss and West Virginia are all teams that called his high school coach last week about Watkins. Things are just getting started for this outstanding athlete.

"I am open now. I would like to stay close to home but now I know it's not a big deal to me and my parents."

Watkins says he will attend a spring practice at Florida and may makes trips to both South Florida and Georgia as well.