The recruiting process can be unpredictable. Some athletes receive scholarship offers as early as middle school, while others have to wait until their senior year. But for Williamsport (MD) linebacker Tyson Cleary, persistence has paid off as he has spent the summer showcasing his talent at several FCS prospect camps.

“I am very thankful for the opportunities to play at the next level, and my recruiting has been picking up this offseason,” Cleary said. “Plus, I have been hearing from a lot more FCS and FBS schools.”

The 6-foot-1, 225-pound Cleary has offers from Division III programs Brevard College, Macalester College, Gustavus College, Saint Francis, Capital University, and Lawrence University. While he is thrilled with those offers, he has Division 1 aspirations.

So far this summer, he has been to camps at New Haven, Stony Brook, Princeton, Butler, and Buffalo. Those camps have provided valuable learning experiences, and he has received positive feedback from coaches at each stop.

“I had a great camp at Butler. Once camp concluded, Coach Lynch (head coach Kevin Lynch) and I discussed applying to school as well as coming back for a game day visit in the fall. Coach Heck (defensive coordinator and linebackers coach Jared Heck) gave me good feedback during drills and after camp about my specific attributes as well as things I could work on.

“I had similar success at Buffalo. Coach Whitcomb (tight ends coach Ron Whitcomb) and I have been in contact since my sophomore year, and I spoke with Coach Garwig (linebackers coach Alex Garwig). We discussed my skill set, how it would fit into Buffalo’s scheme, and things I could continue to work on. They both invited me back for a game day visit. I was also able to spend time with Coach Feiertag (assistant offensive line coach Andrew Feiertag), who just discussed everything Buffalo has to offer as a program athletically and academically.

“I attended camps at Princeton and Stony Brook last weekend and New Haven this weekend. All of those were great, and I met with every head coach. They were all happy with everything that I showed, and all of those schools want to continue recruiting me and invited me for campus visits and game day visits. Wagner was at the Stony Brook camp, and they want me to come visit campus and attend a game as well. So all four of those schools I talked to liked everything I put out there and want me back on campus.”

During his strong junior season in 2025, Cleary finished with 145 tackles, six tackles for loss, three fumble recoveries, a sack, and a forced fumble. He was named a First Team All-State, All-Region, and All-County selection, as well as the Linebacker of the Year for the Wildcats, who finished 6-4 and made the playoffs.

“We had a good year last season as a team and are continuing to grow. We made the playoffs and are looking to build off last season’s success and make a statement this year. Individually, I continued to grow and was awarded 1st Team All-State as well as Linebacker of the Year. I also set the county record for most tackles in a single game at 29.”

With several key players returning, Cleary believes the Wildcats have the pieces to make a deep playoff run while he looks to build on his outstanding junior season.

“I feel like we have a chance to be very good this year. We are returning several key players on offense and defense. Our focus moving forward is to get better one day at a time and build off last season’s success. Individually, for myself, I’ve spent this offseason focusing on taking feedback that I received from coaches at Rutgers, Virginia Tech, Penn State, and Akron. They wanted me to focus on explosion, overall speed, and change in direction,” Cleary said.

Also, I’ve changed the whole nutritional aspect of my training based on a promise I made to Coach Hodge (linebackers coach Elijah Hodge) at Rutgers to keep my weight under 230. By doing this, I have seen the fruits of my labor on the field this offseason. We want to continue to build off the success we’ve had in the past and make a deep run in the playoffs. Individually, I’m hoping to break the county and school career tackles record, as well as repeat as all-state and earn a Division I football scholarship.”

Cleary already has six Division III offers to play at the next level. If he carries his strong offseason into the fall, he’ll have an opportunity to add Division I offers to his growing list.

McKinney (TX) High School defensive back Jayden Ford has seen his recruitment pick up recently, especially after receiving a couple of offers last week from Missouri State and North Dakota State.

He picked up his latest offer on May 7 from North Dakota State after he spoke with cornerbacks coach Eric Amoako.

“I had a great conversation with Coach Amoako when he came to my school the week before. He said my film was good, and that their defensive coordinator (Grant Olson) is coming to see me next week, and then he offered me when he called me on Thursday,” Ford said.

His recruitment

The recruiting process has been going well for him. In addition to the Bison and Bears, he has offers from North Dakota, Western Michigan, and Division II Southeastern Oklahoma State.

“My recruitment has been going well. A lot of schools are texting me, and I have been gaining some exposure. More colleges are starting to notice,” Ford said.

He received his first Division I offer from the Fighting Hawks on February 27 after speaking with defensive backs coach Travis Stepps.

“It felt really good to receive my first D1 offer. I always knew what I wanted to do after high school; I just had to apply myself and make coaches believe in me, as my coaching staff does.”

Ford followed that with his first FBS offer from Western Michigan on April 30, after meeting with Broncos cornerbacks coach Nick Coleman, who was at MHS.

“Coach Coleman was at our school, and he put me through a workout to see if I had what he was looking for. Afterward, he offered me, and it felt really good to receive my first FBS offer, which made me hungrier and wanting more.”

Recapping last season

Ford had a great 2025 season for the Lions, who finished 3-7 in District 6-6A. He recorded 40 tackles, six pass breakups, four tackles for loss, and one interception.

“Last season, I think it went well for me individually, but I had a lot of mental mistakes. As a team, we were young, so we just needed an offseason to develop. The offseason has gone really well for me. I took the weight room more seriously and applied myself, and put on 15 pounds.”

With five offers total and plenty of teams reaching out to him, look for Ford to add more soon. Until then, he will keep preparing for the 2026 season, but he does know what he will be looking for in a program.

“I will be looking for a program that will develop me, and one that I have a good relationship with, because I feel like relationships are important.”

Wyoming, Sam Houston State, and New Mexico State are a few schools to watch here.

Welcome to the first edition of the Sports Madness Group of Five Recruiting Roundup. Spring football is winding down, but recruiting is heating up for all college football programs. Here, I will catch up with some of the latest prospects to receive an offer from a G5 school.

Keizavion Woods | 2027 | LB | 6’4” 235 lbs | Hutchinson Community College | Hutchinson, KS

Woods received his latest offer from South Alabama on Thursday after visiting with defensive coordinator and inside linebackers coach Todd Orlando.

“Coach Orlando visited me at my home in Louisiana and offered me. He said I was one of the top JUCO linebackers that schools want because of my versatility, being able to play all linebacker positions plus edge,” Woods said. “My recruitment has skyrocketed in the last two weeks. I recently decided to stay another season at Hutchinson, so schools are treating me as a top player in the JUCO class of 2027.”

He also has offers from North Alabama and Albany. He has been hearing from Florida, Utah State, Nebraska, Memphis, Texas State, UCLA, Kansas State, Illinois State, and other G5 schools.

Jonathan Boyd | 2027 | DB | 5’11” 185 lbs | Hutchinson Community College | Hutchinson, KS

Boyd received his latest offer from Old Dominion on Wednesday after he spoke with defensive coordinator and inside linebackers coach Blake Seiler.

“Coach Seiler called to tell me about the offer. We had a good conversation, and he was telling me how they see me fitting into their defense and what they like about my game as a nickel. I appreciated hearing that from them,” Boyd said. “Recruiting has been going well. I’ve been staying focused on finishing the semester strong and continuing to develop this spring.”

He also has offers from Western Michigan and Charlotte. Last season, he finished with 39 tackles and four pass breakups for the Blue Dragons.

Russell Davis | 2027 | DT | 6’3” 290 lbs | Northeast Mississippi Community College | BOONEVILLE, MS

Davis picked up his latest offer from Southern Miss yesterday after speaking with defensive line coach Jerone Steckel.

“Coach Steckel called and told me he really liked my film and that I was a great player. Then told me he was going to offer me,” Steckel said.

Davis also added an offer from Troy after he spoke with Director of Scouting Ken Signoretti after practice on April 15.

“Coach Ken told me about the offer, and I chopped it up with him after practice, where I took advantage of my opportunity and balled out like I’ve been doing. He asked me about my past and how I ended up at JUCO. He told me I’m a great player, and I get off that ball and play in the backfield,” Davis said. “My recruitment is going well right now. I have a lot of Division I schools reaching out and offering.”

He also has an offer from Jackson State.

Jalen Anderson | 2027 | DB | 5’9” 170 lbs | East Central Community College | Decatur, MS

Anderson added his latest offer from Florida International on April 17 after speaking with special teams coordinator and safeties coach Kenneth Gilstrap.

“FIU came to the school, and I went and talked to them before the lift. Coach Gilstrap wanted to watch us lift that day, and afterward, he told my coach (head coach Jonathan Webster) that he had offered me and then told me about the offer,” Anderson said.

He also picked up one from Troy on April 15 after he met and spoke with General Manager Drew Casa.

“Troy came to the school on a Wednesday, and my coach called me and told me to come to the field house, so I walked down and spoke with Coach Casa. And after speaking with him, he told me that I have an offer to go to Troy. My recruitment is going very well. God has blessed me to receive offers from Texas State, Troy, and FIU so far. I am very excited and thankful for these opportunities,” Anderson added.

Last season, he finished with 27 tackles, two interceptions, one pass breakup, a forced fumble, and half a sack for the Warriors. South Alabama and Arkansas State are some other schools he is hearing from.

J’Cameron Riley | 2027 | DL | 6’3” 315 lbs | Northeast Mississippi Community College | BOONEVILLE, MS

Riley received an offer from Louisiana Tech on April 15 after he spoke with defensive line coach Paul Randolph.

“​Coach Randolph called and told me how he wants me there and will help me reach my dream of going to the league if I’m willing to,” Riley said.

He also has offers from North Alabama, Eastern Kentucky, Mercyhurst, Old Dominion, North Texas, Florida International, and Kennesaw State. Last season, he finished with 19 tackles, four tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks for the Tigers.

One of the first prospect camps that West Los Angeles College defensive back Francois Jones went ot was at San Jose State when he was a freshman. He received an offer from them on January 28, after meeting with defensive coordinator Bojay Filimoeatu when he was on campus for his official visit.

“It was surreal to me because I had been to this school plenty of times before on multiple visits and even a JUCO camp when I was only 15, so just being told by Coach Bojay that I received an offer from them gave me a surge of excitement,” Jones said.

“He was very straightforward with me, just letting me know that he loved my film and that he felt I would be a great addition to his defense over at San Jose, being that I can play more than one position in the secondary. He is an all-around just a well-rounded guy, very straightforward on what he expects from you, and everything he feels I can do, I believe I’m capable of doing as well.”

That familiarity and the talks he had with Filimoeatu and cornerbacks coach Brian Norwood while at his official visit are what led Jones to commit to the Spartans on Wednesday.

“The decision wasn’t too hard for me. I felt that Coach Norwood was the best position coach that I could be coached by. I love the way he teaches the game and especially my position. He wants an understanding of how you like to be coached so he can best fit you. Early, I was planning on going far for college to get away from the city, but once I met up with those guys, I felt that closer might be better.”

Recapping his season at West LAC

The Wildcats had one of the best seasons in their history as they finished 2025 with a 7-4 record. They appeared in the postseason for the first time since 2004, and played in the Beach Bowl, but fell to Grossmont College 21-20. Jones finished with 23 tackles, four pass breakups, and an interception.

“My season went well. I started the season off pretty hot early, so I feel lots of teams shied away from me the deeper in the season we got. So I just made sure to make the best of each opportunity, which I feel like I did in most cases. Team-wise, I’d say the season had its ups and downs, but we all stayed locked in and focused on the task at hand. Unfortunately, though, we didn’t finish the season as we planned, losing by one in our bowl game.”

His recruitment

Out of high school, Jones did not receive much interest from Division I programs, but he did have offers to Division II schools. That is what led him to pursue the JUCO route and end up at West LAC.

“Recruiting out of high school just wasn’t necessarily how I wanted it to be, so I chose the JUCO route. I had around five Division II offers coming out of high school, but I was still 17 and felt I was young enough to take the JUCO route for a year or two and still get a good amount of interest from some schools.”

With his strong play at the start of the season, he received offers from Middle Tennessee, Sacramento State, San Jose State, and interest from Power Four and Group of Five programs as well.

“Starting off the season, I actually had interest from a large number of schools like Arizona, Liberty, UNLV, and more, but coaching staff changes and other things happened. I feel the process is a part of where I get my drive from; just knowing that if I keep making the plays and doing what needs to be done, I could be leaving soon was a key point to success.”

Official visit to San Jose State

Jones had already been to San Jose State multiple times, so his official visit was more about getting to know the coaching staff and getting a feel for how they ran things.

“For my official visit, since I had already been there a few times before, it was more for me just talking to the coaches and Coach Norwood because he is new, and seeing how they saw me fitting on their team. Every part of our conversation, I enjoyed; he tested me on my knowledge of the game as well, which I enjoyed.

Coach Bojay and I went out to eat, and that’s when we had a sit-down and talked mainly about our expectations and goals for this upcoming season. I feel that more than anything was the highlight I enjoyed the most, and Coach Niumatalolo (Head coach Ken Niumatalolo) showed his true passion for the game of football. It gave me a clear understanding that I can play under his lead,” Jones said.

Moberly Area Community College (MO) guard Lavonta Ivery received his first Division I offer from Appalachian State on January 6. The offer caught him by surprise, as well as the call he received from Mountaineers head coach Dustin Kerns and assistant coach Bradley Fey.

“I was shocked because I didn’t know I was going to get a call from Coach Kerns until he Face Timed me. When he did, we talked about App State and the environment because it’s close to home. After we talked for a while, he offered me,” Ivery said.

“​I respect them both for believing in me to be my first official Division 1 offer, and my relationship with them is tight.”

On Friday, the 6-foot-3 Ivery was in Boone, North Carolina, for his official visit with the Mountaineers.

“​My official visit was awesome! I love how the campus is really bigger than I thought it was, and the staff is very respectful to others. The weight room plan they have; I liked that a lot, because it works all the muscles in your body. All of the coaches showed me around the campus and the facilities. It was pretty nice to see everything.”

Recapping his season at Moberly

Ivery was at Volunteer State Community College for the 2024 season before he decided to transfer and chose the Greyhounds, who finished this season 24-7, as he averaged 17.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game.

“I was at Volunteer State, but I decided to go to Moberly just for a better opportunity to play basketball and meet new people. This season has been great for me. I learned a lot from just being at Moberly for one year. I love the fan base and the community that really appreciates us at every game. Team-wise, we played with everyone in our system. It didn’t go as planned, but we really connected as a brotherhood and family!”

Other schools in the mix

Ivery also has an offer from Cleveland State, which he received on February 4, after speaking with Vikings associate head coach Frank Young. Ivery will be taking an official visit there soon.

“I haven’t been on a visit to Cleveland State yet, so I really can’t say too much about them. But the coaching staff is good, and I was excited to receive an offer from them.”

He has been hearing from some other programs, which include Bowling Green, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), UNC Pembroke, North Carolina Central, and Georgia Southern.

Ivery still has some time before he makes a decision, but he does know what he will be looking for in the school he decides on.

“I’m looking for a program that fits my play style, a run and gun team, but the most important thing is the environment that I will be around for the next couple of years, and how the community loves the university and will support the team!”

Ben Kalonji | SOPH | Center/Forward | 6’11” | Clarendon Community College | Clarendon, TX

Kalonji received his first Division I offer from Campbell on March 17 after he spoke with head coach John Andrzejek and assistant coach Anthony Lorenzo.

“Coach Lorenzo and Coach Andrzejek called to tell me about the offer, but it was pretty funny how the conversation went because I was taking my nap, and I got their phone call while I was still kind of asleep. I answered the phone, and they asked me how I had been doing and a couple of questions about myself, the way I play, and all that, and then asked me a little bit about my game on the court. They told me that they like my game and they think that I could fit in their program and be a major contributor inside the paint,” Kalonji said.

“My recruitment is going pretty well since I’ve been in the transfer portal, especially since I’ve already gotten my first offer.”

This season, Kalonji averaged 4.1 points and 2.7 rebounds per game for the Bulldogs. Another school he is hearing from is Hofstra.

Austin Ratliff | SOPH | Forward | 6’7” | Hinds Community College | Raymond, MS

Ratliff received an offer from Alcorn State on March 11 after he spoke with Braves assistant coach Adam Braswell.

“Coach Braswell called me and said he had been checking in on me throughout the whole season and then told me about the offer,” Ratliff said.

This season, he averaged 13.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game for the Eagles. He also has offers from Southern and Division II Clark Atlanta University. Ratliff has also been hearing from Farleigh Dickinson.

Manasseh Stackhouse | RS FR | Forward | 6’7” | Cloud County Community College | Concordia, KS

Stackhouse received his first two Division I offers from California State, Northridge, and Alabama A&M on Thursday. The offer from the Matadors came after he spoke with head coach Andy Newman and assistant coach CJ Killin.

“I had a great conversation with Coach Newman and Coach Killin, where they were telling me a lot of things that I liked, which could make me a better player and a good fit there,” Stackhouse said.

“My recruitment is going well, and it is starting to pick up now that the season has wrapped up.”

His offer from the Bulldogs came after he had a Zoom call with their staff, including head coach Donte’ Jackson and associate head coach Kyle Jones.

“The Zoom with Coach Jackson, Coach Jones, and their staff went great. I have heard a lot of good things about them!”

This season, Stackhouse averaged 13.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and one assist per game for the Thunderbirds. He has been hearing from a few schools, including Green Bay, UAPB, UTRGV, Lindenwood, South Dakota State, Northwestern State, Indiana University Indianapolis, Chicago State, and Omaha.

Leano Rolle | SOPH | Forward | 6’7” | Southwest Mississippi Community College | Summit, MS

Rolle added his latest offer from Missouri State on Wednesday after he spoke with Bears head coach Cuonzo Martin and assistant coach Steve Woodberry.

“Coach Woodberry called me, and I was talking to him first. Then Coach Martin called and offered me. They look like a good program, but I haven’t taken a deep look at any schools yet. I am just letting everything play out until it’s time to make that decision,” Rolle said.

This season, he averaged 14.4 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, while shooting 50.3% from the field and 31% from three-point range for the Bears. He also has offers from Florida State and Louisiana Tech.

Waubonsee Community College forward Chikasi Ofoma picked up his latest offer from Campbell after speaking with the Fighting Camels assistant coach, Austin Burnette.

“Coach Burnette called me about 80 minutes before pregame, just checking in on me, which he had been doing a couple of times a week. But things took a turn when he asked me what I’ve been doing since my season concluded, and I told him I planned to take a day or two off before I get back to work. Then he told me not to take too much time off because they need me for next year, and that I have an offer from Campbell,” Ofoma said.

The recruiting process

Ofoma, who played his high school basketball at Curie High School in Chicago, was recruited by multiple mid-major programs. However, did not receive an offer and instead committed to Ferris State before he transferred to Waubonsee.

“I was recruited out of high school by multiple mid-major D1-level schools, but unfortunately, none of those programs pulled the trigger on a scholarship, which led to me deciding to commit to a Division II powerhouse, Ferris State University, where I spent two years and was part of a conference tournament championship and a regional championship.”

His recruitment had been going slowly, until he received his first offer from Bethune-Cookman on February 26.

“Receiving my first offer was a dream come true and a full-circle moment. Coach Phil from Lowe Sports, who represents me, called me first. Then, I had a good phone conversation with assistant coach Billy Garrett, who then offered me a scholarship to join the program next season. I’m very impressed with the program. They have had a great year, obviously, with some great wins, winning the SWAC regular season, and a chance at playing in March Madness.”

Recapping the season

Ofoma and the Chiefs finished the season with a 24-8 record after falling to Milwaukee Area (WI) Technical College 99-93 in the semifinals of the Region 4 Division II Midwest District A Tournament. He averaged 13.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, while shooting 51.9% from the field, and was named a First Team Illinois Skyway All-Conference selection.

“My season went well! It included a lot of great moments, and I made a lot of lifelong bonds. In addition, we won the Skyway Conference championship outright, and I received first-team all-conference honors.”

What he is looking for in a program

While Ofuma has yet to schedule any official visits and looks forward to them, he knows what he wants in the program he ultimately commits to.

“I will be looking for a school that will believe in me as a player, trust me as a player, and understand me as a player because I am unique. From my playstyle all the way to my mental. So, a coach with a plan to utilize me, help me improve, and who is willing to work with me and hold me accountable. But most importantly, a coaching staff and players who are all about winning.”

Snow College 6-foot-11 sophomore forward Aaron Bliss received his latest offer from the University of Missouri–Kansas City on February 11 after he spoke with Roos’ new head coach, Mark Turgeon.

“Coach Mark Turgeon offered me recently, and I am very grateful for his interest in me and my potential! Both he and Coach Will Turgeon have been really good at communicating with me through the whole process,” Bliss said.

“The Roo’s have struggled this season, but with Coach Turgeon getting into the program and with his history in coaching, they should definitely be able to turn things around and become a high contender for a championship team in the Summit League.”

His recruitment

In addition to the Roo’s, Bliss has also received offers from Jacksonville University and Sacramento State.

“Recruitment has been great so far, definitely just been enjoying the process and staying patient with schools that have shown interest. Been blessed to be able to meet and talk with lots of amazing coaches and programs.”

The offer from the Hornets was his first Division I offer, which came in July after a Pro Am Tournament, and left Bliss ecstatic due to the big names involved in the program.

“I received my first offer from Sac State last summer. I had been playing in a local Pro-Am tournament, which is where I got my connection with them and met some of their staff. When Coach Warren (President of Basketball Operations Michael Warren) was the one who offered me I was very excited and grateful for the opportunity.

Even though they’ve had a rough season, they have a ton of potential to become a great program with big names like Mike Bibby (Head coach) and Shaq (General Manager Shaquille O’Neal) getting involved.

The season

The Badgers, who are 27-3 overall and the top-ranked team, will be looking to make a run toward a national championship in Hutchinson. Bliss is averaging 6.5 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, while shooting 51% from the field.

“The season has been great so far. I have definitely been able to further develop my game on both ends of the floor and have loved the process. This team has a chance to make another historical run as number one in the country, and having the depth that we have, it has been so fun being able to play with all these guys and grow close with them both on and off the court. We finished the regular season 27-3 and are now looking to go get our region and district championships as well and make a deep run in the national tournament.”

Note- Snow College fell to the College of Southern Idaho 64-60 in the Region 18 championship on Saturday.

What he is looking for in a program

Bliss will be taking official visits to UMKC and Jacksonville sometime in March, after the season ends for the Badgers. But when the time comes for him to make a decision on his commitment, he knows what he will be looking for.

“More than anything, I am looking to go to a school that will help me develop and become the greatest player I can be and play at the highest level that I can. A good relationship with the head coach is also super important to me, and NIL as well.”

USC Upstate, Canisius, Evansville, and San Francisco are some other schools in the mix.

Dodge City Community College combo guard Derrick Rivers is enjoying a good sophomore season with the Conquistadors, who finished the regular season 20-10 and 16-8 in the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference. He is averaging 20.7 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, while shooting 39.1 % from the field and 30.2% from three-point range.

“The season is going well for me! I am getting to showcase how good a scorer I am and how I can lead a team to victory. As a team, we are just trying to keep winning as we are in 3rd place in the best conference in the country, and hopefully, we can make a deep playoff run at Hutch,” Rivers said.

His recruitment

Rivers has offers from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Lindenwood, and Southern University.

“Recruitment is kind of slow and spaced out and comes in spurts. But I expect it to pick up towards the end of the season. I definitely want to make a decision in March.”

He received his offer from the UMKC on February 18 after he spoke with Roos’ new head coach, Mark Turgeon.

“Coach Turgeon reached out to me a day after getting the job and started to build a relationship with me, and eventually came to practice and offered me in person. The conversation went well as he has experience with small guards and is not afraid of their height.

Rivers took an official visit to Lindenwood in December and has a great relationship with Lions head coach Kyle Gerdeman, which goes back to high school.

“I’ve known Coach Gerdeman since high school, as he recruited me a little, so I have a little bit of a relationship with him. He’s a great guy and has a great coaching staff. My visit to Lindenwood went great, especially receiving an offer, as well as seeing the nice first-class facilities and the living situation they had to offer. I like their program because it is in my hometown and they have great facilities.”

Rivers also took a visit to Bradley and is planning on taking one to UMKC after the season ends for him.

What he is looking for in a program

For now, River’s attention is on helping the Conquistadors make a postseason push. But when his recruitment picks back up, he’ll have a clear vision of what he wants in his future home.

“I will be looking for a place that fits my play style and a coach that lets me be me, somewhere I can play on and off the ball, and a coach that trusts me and cares for his players, and also definitely somewhere I can make an impact right away and help win.”

Southeastern Louisiana, Texas A&M- Corpus Christi, Southeast Missouri State, and Sam Houston State are a few schools that he has been hearing from.

Southwest Mississippi Community College point guard Cy Merrett received an offer from Jacksonville University on February 17. The offer was his latest and came after he spoke with Dolphins assistant coach Mychal Covington.

“I talked to Coach Covington, and he really was just saying how they want guys in their program that can create scoring opportunities, whether it’s for themselves or for the team, and he feels like my game matches their place out over there at Jacksonville,” Merrett said.

Other offers

He also has offers from Southern Miss, New Orleans, Southern University, Prairie View A&M, Tarleton State, and California. The offer from the Golden Bears was his biggest to date and first from a Power Four conference.

“The recruiting process has gone smoothly throughout the year. I am just keeping my options open and listening to what everyone has to say. Receiving the offer from California and Coach Scherbenske (Assistant coach Matt Scherbenske) was great! We had a good conversation, which went well, and he was telling me how they’ve watched my game for a little while now, how they really like my style of play, and the fact that I’m a bigger guard. I like California; they are a solid program in the ACC.”

The season

SMCC is currently 16-14 overall and 10-4 in the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges Conference Athletics (MACCC), and will be the No. 2 seed in the conference tournament. On the season, Merrett is averaging 13.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, while shooting 45.4% from the field and 31.5% from three-point range.

“My season is going great. I learned a lot, especially now that I have changed my position to the point guard position. Really, just watching film with my coaches and them giving me a lot of advice on how to get my teammates open and put them in better positions to score as a team. I think we grew a lot this season. We had a lot of ups and downs, but overall, I think we are headed in the right direction going into the playoffs.”

With his strong performance this season, Merrett was recently named to theFab 50 JUCO Freshmen list and was thrilled with the honor.

“It’s an honor to be recognized as one of the top JUCO freshmen in the country. I’ve put in a lot of work this past year, and for it to be recognized is a blessing.”

Other schools in the mix

Merrett will begin to take official visits once the season ends for the Bears. In addition to the programs he has been offered from, he has also been hearing from Utah, UNLV, and a few others. He also knows what he will be looking for in the program he decided to commit to.

“My player development coach, team culture, the league they play in, and the coaching staff are what I will be looking for.”

Coastal Alabama Community College- South guard Joshua Williams recently received offers from North Carolina Central on February 23 and Sacramento State February 20.

The Eagles’ offer came after he spoke with both head coach LeVelle Moton and assistant coach Wes Pifer.

“Coach LeVelle and Coach Pifer are both outstanding coaches and even better men. I really respect what they stand for and the culture they are building. They believe I can come in and make an immediate impact, which means a lot to me,” Williams said. “North Carolina Central has consistently competed at a high level, and both coaches come from a strong winning background. I have a lot of respect for their program.”

Williams received his offer from the Hornets after he spoke with assistant coach Greg Moody.

“Coach Moody is a great coach and an even better person. Throughout the season, he has consistently checked in on me and expressed his belief in my abilities, which I truly appreciate. I feel Sacramento State is a strong program that is continuing to grow and develop. They’re heading in the right direction and will be competing at a high level.”

In addition to the Eagles and Hornets, Williams holds offers from the Alabama A&M Bulldogs and Florida A&M Rattlers. His recruitment is picking up, and he is planning to visit all four schools after the season.

“The recruiting process is going very well. Things are starting to pick up, and I’m truly enjoying the moment. I’m grateful and blessed for every opportunity that’s coming my way.”

This season

The Coyotes are 8-20 overall, and 3-10 in the Alabama Community College Conference (ACCC). Despite their record, Williams likes how they have competed this season, and he is averaging 23.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, while shooting 49.3% from the field and 35.4% from three-point range.

“Both individually and as a team, the season has been a journey of growth. Our record may not reflect where we want to be, but we are coming together as the season winds down. We’ve continued to build chemistry, compete harder, and trust one another more each game. The coaching staff has done a tremendous job keeping us focused and holding us to a high standard, and I’ve learned a great deal from them.

Individually, I feel I’ve performed well. However, I know there’s another level I can reach. I’m working on expanding my game—especially increasing my assist numbers, making better reads, and impacting the game beyond scoring. There’s always room for growth, and I’m focused on finishing strong and improving every day. I’m confident the best is still ahead.”

On Monday, Williams was named the ACCC player of the week for the third time this season, after averaging 35.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.5 steals per game, while shooting 51% from the field. He was also named one of the JUCO Top 100 players in January.

“It’s truly an honor to be recognized as one of the Top 100 JUCO players in the nation. To have my name listed alongside so many talented players is a blessing. I give all the credit to God because without Him, I wouldn’t be in this position. While I’m grateful for the recognition, I know there’s still a lot of work to be done.”

What he is looking for in a program

Williams has been hearing from Louisiana Tech, Southern Miss, South Alabama, UTEP, Georgia Southern, Missouri State, Alabama State, Cal State Fullerton, New Mexico State, and UAB. With the season he is having, he will definitely add some more offers, and he knows what he will be looking for in a program.

“I’m looking for the right fit, where I can contribute immediately and continue to grow both on and off the court. A family-oriented environment is important to me, along with building strong relationships with the coaching staff. Those relationships and the overall culture of the program will play a major role in my decision.”

Triton College guard Papa Kounta received an offer from the University at Albany on February 10 after speaking with head coach Dwayne Killings. The 6-foot-6 sophomore took an official visit to New York this weekend, and the Great Danes have quickly emerged as one of his top schools.

“When Coach Killings offered me, he told me how much he believes in my game and how I would fit into their system. Hearing that from a head coach meant a lot, especially knowing that they’ve been watching me,” Kounta said. “We have built a good relationship. He checks in with me often and talks to me about basketball. I respect his vision for the program, and I can tell he’s passionate and serious about winning.”

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Welcome to another edition of the Sports Madness Recruiting Roundup. Programs across the country have turned their attention to the 2027 cycle, while also beginning to identify prospects in the 2028 classes and beyond. Here’s a look at several recruits who recently added new offers as their recruitments continue to gain momentum.

2027 recruits

Braiden Graves | 2027 | ATH | 6’2” 190 lbs | Bridgeland High School | Cypress, TX | Recruiting Ranking- 247Sports Composite: 548 NATL- 56 SAF- 76 TX | Rivals Industry Ranking: 553 NATL- 58 SAF- 72 TX |

Graves received an offer from Iowa State on February 12 after speaking with Cyclones defensive coordinator Jesse Bobbit. “Coach Bobbit reached out to me to talk about their program and defense. He also told me he loved my physicality,” Graves said. “My recruiting is going well. I am enjoying having these experiences that other people dream of.”

He finished 2025 with 97 tackles, eight pass breakups, seven sacks, five tackles for loss, two fumble recoveries, and a forced fumble. Graves also has offers from Houston, Texas State, Utah, Kansas, San Diego State, Tulsa, Oregon State, UTSA, SMU, Texas Tech, Oklahoma State, Pittsburgh, UTEP, Kansas State, North Texas, UConn, and TCU.

Matthew McIntyre | 2027 | TE | 6’3” 230 lbs | Mars Hill Bible School | Florence, AL | Recruiting Ranking- NA |

McIntyre added his first Power Four offer from Colorado on February 12 after he spoke with tight ends coach Josh Niblett. “Coach Niblett shot me a text, and then we hopped on the phone later that night. He was such a nice guy, and he talked about how he wanted to turn Colorado into tight end university. He also talked about how much he values helping his players develop past football and as men coming closer to God. I was really fired up after the phone call and receiving my first P4 offer, “ McIntyre said.

He finished 2025 with 16 receptions for 463 yards and five touchdowns for the Panthers, who won their second consecutive state championship. He also has offers from Troy, UAB, Tennessee-Martin, North Alabama, Liberty, South Alabama, Florida International, Jacksonville State, Georgia Southern, East Carolina, Texas State, and Kennesaw State.

Braxton Daniel | 2027 | TE | 6’4” 210 lbs | Jenks High School | Jenks, OK | Recruiting Ranking- NA |

Daniel received his latest offer from Oklahoma State on February 13, after he spoke with Coeboys special teams coordinator and tight ends coach Drew Svoboda. “I had a great 15-minute conversation with Coach Svoboda, who offered me. I think that Oklahoma State is a great football program that has struggled the past few years, but is finally going to pick it back up with the new coaching staff,” Daniel said.

He finished the season with 16 receptions for 545 yards and six touchdowns. Daniel also has offers from Arizona, Utah, Tulsa, SMU, and Duke.

2028 recruits

Geraci Carson | 2028 | DL | 6’5” 280 lbs | Lanier High School | Jackson, MS | Recruiting Ranking- NA |

Carson received his latest offer from Texas A&M on February 12. “My coaches spoke with a couple of coaches from Texas A&M, and they informed them about their interest. I appreciate the time they took to connect with them and discuss my development. I like Texas A&M and really respect their grit and competitive mindset. No matter the situation, whether they’re up or down, they play with intensity and effort until the final whistle. That kind of culture stands out to me,” Carson said. “My recruitment is going well. I’ve had the opportunity to visit several schools, and a number of coaching staff have evaluated me. I’m grateful for the interest and continuing to build strong relationships throughout the process.”

He also has offers from Old Dominion, Southern Miss, Western Kentucky, Ole Miss, Miami (OH), UNLV, Miami (FL), Florida Atlantic, UTSA, LSU, and Mississippi State.

Dominic Williams Jr. | 2028 | DB | 6’0” 182 lbs | Jacksonville High School | Jacksonville, NC | Recruiting Ranking- NA |

Williams added his latest offer from Ole Miss on February 12. “My head coach, Coach Williams (Beau Williams), informs my parents and me of all offers since I can’t talk to coaches right now. Coach Singlet

on (Coordinator of Player Personnel Jeremy Singleton) was the one who reached out, and I’m looking forward to speaking to them myself this summer. I’m still excited about the offer; it keeps me focused on my goals to play at the next level,” Williams said. “The recruiting process is going well, and it is exciting for my family and me. I’ve just recently begun to get my name out there with the colleges, and it’s been fun so far.”

He finished 2025 with 45 tackles, 16 pass breakups, four tackles for loss, three interceptions, and a forced fumble for the Cardinals. Williams also has an offer from Wake Forest.

Receiving your first scholarship offer is a significant accomplishment for any athlete. That was the case for Angleton (TX) cornerback Kasen Jammer, who picked up his first offer from Texas State on Saturday. If his last name sounds familiar, that is because his father is a former Texas Longhorns All-American cornerback and San Diego Chargers’ 2002 first-round pick Quentin Jammer. That bloodline is one thing that Bobcats’ head coach GJ Kinne liked when he offered the younger Jammer.

“My conversation with Coach Kinne was really straightforward. He said he loved what I’ve put on tape and doesn’t care too much about being the biggest kid,” Jammer said. “He wants football players who can play at a high level and also have a bloodline of football, and with my dad and uncle (Former Texas Longhorn and Seattle Seahawks defensive back Quandre Diggs), he really liked that. I’m really thankful to Coach Kinne for believing in me, and I can’t thank him enough.”

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Welcome to another edition of the Sports Madness Recruiting Roundup. Programs across the country have turned their attention to the 2027 cycle, while also beginning to identify prospects in the 2028 classes and beyond. Here’s a look at several recruits who recently added new offers as their recruitments continue to gain momentum.

Charles Davis | 2027 | WR | 6’5” 200 lbs | Westlake High School | Westlake Village, CA | Recruiting Ranking- 247Sports: 91 WR- 70 CA | Rivals Industry Ranking: NA

Davis received his latest offer from USC on Thursday after speaking with Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley. “Getting the offer from USC was a big blessing! I spoke with Coach Riley, and he told me they loved my film, my versatility, and the way I compete. The conversation was genuine; he made it clear I was a priority for them and that they see a big role for me in their system. It meant a lot to hear that from a program with that kind of history. When I think about USC Trojans football, I think tradition, development, and elite competition. They’ve produced a lot of high-level players and compete at the highest level every year. The culture, the standard they hold themselves to, and playing in a place like Los Angeles really stand out to me,” Davis said.

The three-star prospect finished this season with 30 receptions for 526 yards and 11 touchdowns for the Warriors. Davis also has offers from Hawaii, Montana State, West Virgina, Tulane, Colorado State, Cincinnati, Central Michigan, Florida A&M, Sacramento State, Minnesota, UNLV, San Jose State, Oregon, San Diego State, Utah, Washington State, UCLA, Arizona State, Michigan, California, BYU, Nebraska, Oklahoma, SMU, Arizona, Georgia, and Miami (FL).

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Welcome to another edition of the Sports Madness Recruiting Roundup. Programs across the country have turned their attention to the 2027 cycle, while also beginning to identify prospects in the 2028 classes and beyond. Here’s a look at several recruits who recently added new offers as their recruitments continue to gain momentum.

2027 recruits

Myles Baker | 2027 | DB| 6’2” 205 lbs | Sierra Canyon High School | Chatsworth, CA | Recruiting Ranking- 247Sports Composite: 327 Nationally / 32 STY / 30 CA | Rivals Industry Ranking- 322 Nationally / 31 STY / 29 CA

Baker, who is rated as a four-star safety, received his latest offer from Kentucky on February 7 after speaking with Wildcats assistant general manager Pete Nochta. “I got on FaceTime with Coach Nochta, and we conversed about the school and the program before he told me I got the offer. He talked about how highly Kentucky thinks of me and all that Coach Stein (head coach Will Stein) is going to do for the program. They are a solid SEC school that always plays tough, and with Coach Stein coming in, I know they will be strong offensively with development on both sides of the ball, “ Baker said.

He also has offers from Washington State, San Diego State, Arizona State, Georgia, Oregon, Fresno State, New Mexico State, Colorado State, Texas A&M, Notre Dame, Michigan, Louisville, USC, UNLV, Texas, LSU, Kansas, Sacramento State, Missouri, Ole Miss, Stanford, Alabama, Oklahoma, Ohio State, California, and Tennessee.

Peyton Bishop | 2027 | DL | 6’4” 230 lbs | AC Flora High School | Columbia, SC | Recruiting Ranking- NA

Bishop received his latest offer from Georgia Tech on February 8 after speaking with Yellow Jackets outside linebackers and defensive ends coach Kyle Pope. “​Receiving an offer from Georgia Tech was definitely big! Coach Pope called me to get to know me and said he wants to build a further relationship with me, and then he offered. I love the Georgia Tech football program. They run the defense I like, and they are highly sought after in education, “ Bishop said.

He finished this season with 108 tackles, 25 tackles for loss, 16 sacks, and was anAll-Region selection. Bishop also has offers from South Carolina State, The Citadel, Miami (OH), Kennesaw State, East Tennessee State, Wofford, Cincinnati, Mississippi State, Liberty, Toledo, Tennessee, Ole Miss, Georgia State, Georgia, Army West Point, Coastal Carolina, and James Madison.

Aiden Martin | 2027 | DB | 6’3” 190 lbs | Brennan High School | San Antonio, TX | Recruiting Ranking- NA

Martin received an offer from Oklahoma State on February 7 after he spoke with Cowboys defensive backs coach Jordan Malone. “Coach Malone called me to let me know I was being offered. It was a great conversation with good energy the moment I picked up the phone. Coach and I had a lot of similarities, so everything was very related, and our conversation just flowed that way. I think Oklahoma State is a huge sleeper program, “ Martin said.

He also has offers from UTSA, Colorado State, Texas State, Louisiana Tech, Baylor, Memphis, Utah, Dartmouth, Houston, UCLA, and Rice.

2029 recruits

Makai Buchanan | 2029 | ATH | 5’11” 180 lbs | Victor Valley High School | Victorville, CA | Recruiting Ranking- NA

Buchanan received his latest offer from Tennessee on Monday. “I spoke with Coach Jakevis Callahan, and he told me that my tape looks really good, that I’m very explosive with the ball in my hands, and that I’m a versatile, two-dimensional player who can line up at more than one position. He also said I would be a great fit in their offensive system and encouraged me to keep working and improving each year, “ Buchanan said. “What stands out to me about them is how well they develop their players and how many athletes they’ve sent to the NFL and the next level. Tennessee is also known as a winning program and consistently one of the top teams in the country. Overall, I really like everything about Tennessee.”

He has over 30 offers, which include Ole Miss, Hawaii, Arizona State, Texas A&M, San Diego State, Texas State, Memphis, Sacramento State, Arizona, Syracuse, Georgia State, Ohio State, Southern Miss, Louisville, Colorado State, Oklahoma, North Carolina, Oregon, USC, UCLA, Purdue, Miami (FL), UNLV, Georgia, SMU, Auburn, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Oregon State, Utah, Penn State, and Notre Dame.

Marcus Thompson | 2029 | DB | 6’3” 155 lbs | Victor Valley High School | Victorville, CA | Recruiting Ranking- NA

Thompson added his latest offer from Kentucky on February 7 after a call with Wildcats assistant general manager Pete Nochta. “Coach Troop and I had a FaceTime call with Coach Nochta, and that’s when he informed me that Kentucky was going to offer me. It was a great conversation, “ Thompson said.

He is only a freshman and also holds offers from Sacramento State, Southern Miss, Auburn, USC, Arkansas, Syracuse, Colorado State, Oregon State, California, and Utah.

Collierville (TN) quarterback Brayden Santibanez received an offer from Cincinnati on Tuesday, after speaking with Bearcats quarterbacks coach and co-offensive coordinator Pete Thomas. “Coach Pete Thomas offered me, and it was a great conversation — definitely one I’ll always remember, “Santibanez said. “He broke down what they like about my game and how I would fit in their system. I can’t wait to keep building our relationship, and I appreciate how honest and real he’s been with me throughout the process. Cincinnati has a strong tradition and competes at a high level. They’ve developed some really good quarterbacks, and I’m definitely excited about that! I like the direction the program is headed and can’t wait to learn more about the Bearcats.”

Cincinnati was the latest offer for Santibanez, who also holds offers from North Alabama, Boston College, Georgia State, North Carolina, and Western Kentucky. “Recruitment has been a blessing, and I can only thank God for that. I’m grateful for every opportunity and every school that believes in me. It’s been busy, but I’m enjoying building relationships with coaches and learning more about each program. I’m just taking it one step at a time and making sure I find the best fit for me.”

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Welcome to another edition of the Sports Madness Recruiting Roundup. With the 2026 class now complete following National Signing Day, programs across the country have turned their attention to the 2027 cycle, while also beginning to identify prospects in the 2028 classes and beyond. Here’s a look at several recruits who recently added new offers as their recruitments continue to gain momentum.

2027 recruits

Ahzan Bacote | 2027 | Defensive Lineman | 6’3” 275 lbs | Cornerstone Christian | San Antonio, TX | Recruiting Ranking- NA

Bacote received his latest offer from the Mississippi State Bulldogs after speaking with Defensive Line coach Ty Warren. “I had a great conversation with Coach Warren. He got straight to the point and offered me. I was very excited about this offer since my big bro, Anthony Evans, plays there! I like Mississippi State; they are a great school, and I’m happy they took a shot on me, “ Bacote said.

He finished the 2025 season with 40 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 12 sacks, and a forced fumble. He also has offers from Texas Southern, Incarnate Word, Jackson State, Washington State, Colorado State, North Texas, and UTEP.

Jayvion Clayter | 2027 | Running Back | 6’0” 205 lbs | Eastview High School | Georgetown, TX | Recruiting Ranking- NA

Clayter received his first Division I offer from Georgia State on Saturday, after speaking with running back coach Enrique Davis. “It was a blessing for sure to receive my first D1 offer, and it meant a lot to my family and me. It showed that the work I’ve been putting in is paying off. Coach Davis reached out to me, and we had a really positive conversation. He told me what they liked about my game and what they’re looking for. Then he offered me. My recruitment has been going well. I’ve been getting more interested lately and just trying to stay focused on getting better every day, on and off the field, “ Clayter said.

Clayter finished 2025 with 1,095 all-purpose yards and 14 touchdowns. He was named an All-Disrtict 24-6A First Team selection and the Offensive Newcomer of the Year.

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Aledo (TX) defensive tackle Tymon Meeks picked up his latest Power Four offer from Duke on Wednesday, after speaking with Blue Devils Special teams coordinator and defensive tackles coach Gabe Infante and assistant defensive line coach Alex Devine. “The conversation with both Coach Infante and Coach Devine went great! Of course talked football, but it quickly shifted to what it means to be a student-athlete up there at Duke, “ Meeks said. “They asked for my transcript, and a day later, they called me with the offer. It made me feel good to get an offer after a school looked at my transcript . That just lets me know that I am doing things right in the classroom.”

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Amarillo (TX) Palo Duro High School wide receiver Kyron Brown received his latest offer from Oklahoma State on January 24 after he spoke with Cowboys head coachEric Morris.

“​I received a follow-up on X from Coach Morris. I then texted him, “What’s up, coach?” I sent my film and said I was looking forward to possibly building a connection, “ Brown said. “He responded with, “Let’s call tomorrow.” On January 23rd, the next day, I called. He spoke very highly of me; he loved my film and really emphasized his desire to flip the OSU program into what everyone knows it can be. He told me I was a perfect fit for his desired offense and offered me on the spot.”

The recruitment process has been going well for the 6-foot-2, 180-pound Brown. He also has offers from UTEP, Texas State, Arizona State, and Abilene Christian. “My recruitment is going well. God is blessing me for all the hard work and devotion that I have put into the game, but the job isn’t finished.”

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