After narrowly missing out on unanimous five-star defensive back DJ Pickett of Zephyrhills, Florida, earlier this week, the Oregon Ducks appear to be looking to get back on track in their recruitment efforts soon.
Oregon has a top-five recruiting class in the nation, led by five-star wide receiver DaCorine Moore from Duncanville (Texas) and five-star wide receiver Dallas Wilson from Tampa Bay Tech (Fla.).
But it's not over yet.
Prediction: Trey McNutt to Oregon Ducks
On Friday at 6pm ET/3pm PT, five-star safety Trey McNutt from Shaker Heights, Ohio, is set to announce his college commitment with finalists Florida, Ohio State, Oregon, Texas A&M and USC.
McNutt, the nation's No. 19 prospect and No. 1 safety, visited all five finalists, but his recruiting strategy appears to have changed dramatically since his official visit to Eugene on June 21.
Shortly after that trip, rumors began to circulate that Dan Lanning's team had emerged as the strongest team to land the 6-foot, 180-pound defensive back.
And the recruitment industry followed suit.
247Sports has been favoring the Ducks recently, while On3 gives Oregon a 93.2 percent chance of landing McNutt.
Add in recent comments from potential hires, especially ones that hint at bigger things to come, and “McNutt to Eugene” seems like the likely landing spot.
It's worth noting that major recruiting moves are subject to last-minute changes, and Ohio State and other schools will no doubt be hoping to pull off a surprise similar to Pickett's transfer to Louisiana State witnessed earlier this week.
247Sports had this to say about McNutt's future:
“A track athlete who brings that speed to the football field. Was a great receiver in high school and shows quickness and ball skills that can translate to defense, but it's not impossible for the school to show up on the offensive side of things. Played safety and cornerback. Comes down from the safety position to support the run. Excellent tackler, hits through contact and drives. Not just a drag down tackler, plays with good angles. Can be a free safety, nickel or roamer on defense in college. Good size and length, but not elite in terms of physical size measurements. A playmaker with the toughness and ability to thrive wherever the school wants to use him.”
